Published: September 2011 | Category: About the research programme , Research programme , Research & reports | Audience: General
This evaluation assesses how valuable the findings of NZ Transport Agency research reports, published from 2005 to 2009, have been for end users in New Zealand. The evaluation also identifies the barriers and enablers that make the difference between successful and less successful uptake and use of findings from the research reports, and the extent to which current Transport Agency mechanisms for disseminating and promoting research findings represent the best possible use of available resources.
The findings suggest the research is of substantial value to end users in all areas of the transport sector. The research is highly regarded because it provides practical, innovative New Zealand-based solutions to their issues.
Currently there is more use occurring at the conceptual end of the 'use' continuum and less evidence of research being used to inform decision making, programme/policy formation and/or improvement. More value could be gained by considering, up front, how research findings can be linked to policy and programme decision making.
Good communication of research findings is an important enabler to research use. The email and newsletter notifications of newly completed research are valued by those who receive them. Online access to reports is also valued. However, the Transport Agency website is not considered user friendly.
Keywords: dissemination, influence, research, use, utilisation, value
