The document discusses the role of research in informing public policy. It argues that while research is important for promoting understanding and transparency, policymaking involves many other factors besides evidence, such as experience, resources, and political pressures. The document also outlines different types of policy-related research, including descriptive, analytical, and predictive research methods. It provides examples of research conducted by the UK Film Council to inform film policy.

1. The use of research in public policy OR: why research shouldn't be like a lamppost to a drunkard Jim Barratt, 5 November 2009

2. Aims 1. Put research methods in context 2. Explore the role of research in policy development 3. Examine use of research in film policy

5. Jim who? (2) … all perform some form of public service : Non Departmental Public Body (NDPB) : Self-regulatory body : Private company with delegated powers : Charity with Royal Charter

6. Why do research? Research = systematic enquiry to increase knowledge & understanding The case against… It's expensive, time consuming, and may require specialist skills and training. ‘ There is nothing a government hates more than to be well-informed; for it makes the process of arriving at decisions much more complicated and difficult.’ John Maynard Keynes

9. Lamppost and the drunk AE Housman : " Statistics… are like a lamppost to a drunk …

10. Lamppost and the drunk (2) … they're used more for support than illumination "

14. A drunk loses the keys to his house and is looking for them under a lamppost. A policeman comes over and asks what he’s doing. “ I’m looking for my keys” he says. “I lost them over there”. The policeman looks puzzled. “ Then why are you looking for them all the way over here?” 'Evidence-based policy' (4)

16. 'Evidence-based policy' (6)

17. 'Evidence-based policy' (7) 'The uncertainty of social, economic and political events, coupled with the uncertainty and inconclusive nature of scientific knowledge, mean that high quality evidence often has to compete with these other factors as a basis for decision making.' Philip Davies (2004), Government Chief Social Researcher's Office, Prime Minister's Strategy Unit, Cabinet Office

18. Types of policy-related research Descriptive Analytical Predictive National statistics  Market intelligence  Fact-finding/ Briefings  Audit   Attitudinal research   Behavioural studies   Forecasting   Economic modeling  

23. www.BiggerPictureResearch.net

24. Q&A