The challenges of translating science and research into policy

Developing a strategic mindset about influencing policy must start with the understanding that opportunities to influence policy and make significant change occur infrequently and often unpredictably. The research community needs to seize such opportunities  (termed  'policy windows') when they do arise, for we cannot know when the next window will open once one closes. Identifying policy windows is not difficult—in most cases it takes only a few contacts and a basic understanding of the machinery of governance in a policy area to be aware of the windows opening or closing at any time. Exploiting a policy window is much more difficult, and is something project A3.3 has looked into.