The Areas of Research Interest A mechanism to improve evidence - policy/practice connections

Many governmental, policy and practice organisations struggle to access the evidence they need to improve their decision-making. While there is often a strong desire to inform decision-making by drawing on research evidence or expertise, it can be difficult to find and interpret relevant evidence. Research evidence frequently does not address policy or practice priorities directly. In addition, organisations’ evidence needs are not well-articulated, meaning it is hard for those within, and for research producers outside to know how best to support effective decision-making. Within policy and practice organisations, this can result in a haphazard research and engagement strategy which fails to deliver the knowledge needed to support better public services. 

The Areas of Research Interest (ARIs) are a mechanism to organise this process more effectively. Used well, ARIs can help policy and practice organisations ensure that their policy and practice operational priorities are reflected in research and engagement budgets and activities. Externally, ARIs help external stakeholders such as funders and universities understand how they can constructively support policy and practice organisations’ work. ARIs can improve system functioning and connection and help deliver better public value for money from our services, and from our research spend.

In this report, we describe how ARIs are being produced and used by policy and practice organisations, what makes them worthwhile for organisations, and common challenges. 

Suggested citation: 

Oliver K, Boaz A. (2025) The Areas of Research Interest: a mechanism to improve evidence-policy/practice connections. (2025) Transforming Evidence Working Paper Series No. TE-2025-002. https//doi.10.70399/YHTI1273