Evidence translation: an exploration of policy makers’ use of evidence

Abstract

This paper combines the evidence-based policy making and ‘policy as translation’ literatures to illuminate the process by which evidence from home or overseas contexts is incorporated into policy. Drawing upon focus groups with Department for Work and Pensions officials, a conceptual model of ‘evidence translation’ is introduced, comprising five key dimensions which influence how evidence is used in policy: the perceived policy problem, agenda-setting, filtration processes, the policy apparatus and the role of translators. The paper suggests the critical role of ‘evidence translators’ throughout the process and highlights the perceived importance of methodology as an evidence selection mechanism.