The importance of measuring policy impact for think tanks

Ahead of the On Think Tanks conference this week, Natalia Forrest reflects on why think tanks should measure their policy impact and outlines how the Overton app can help with this.

In today's political climate, think tanks play an increasingly important role in shaping public policy. By providing research and analysis, think tanks can help policymakers make informed decisions that benefit society. However, in order to be effective, think tanks need to be able to measure their impact on policy.

There are a number of ways to start measuring policy impact in combination with more qualitative, human analysis. One common approach is to track the number of times a think tank's research is cited in policy documents. Another approach is to track the number of times a think tank's staff members are invited to testify before legislative committees or to advise policymakers. Still another approach is to track the number of times a think tank's research is used to support the implementation of new policies.

Measuring policy impact can be challenging, but it is essential for think tanks that want to be effective in shaping public policy. By tracking their impact, think tanks can identify what's working and what's not, and they can make adjustments to their research and advocacy strategies accordingly.

One tool that can be helpful for measuring policy impact is the Overton database - a searchable index of policy documents from around the world. The database includes information on the source of each document, the date it was published, and the policy issues it addresses. Overton also includes links to other documents that cite or reference each document.

By using our app, think tanks can track the number of times their research is cited in policy documents. They can also track the number of times their staff members are invited to testify before legislative committees or to advise policymakers. In addition, think tanks can track the number of times their research is used to support the implementation of new policies.

Measuring policy impact is an important part of being an effective think tank. By tracking their impact, think tanks can identify what is working and what is not, and they can make adjustments to their research and advocacy strategies accordingly. 

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, measuring policy impact can also help think tanks:

• Build credibility with policymakers and the public
• Attract funding from donors and foundations
• Demonstrate the value of their work to funders and stakeholders
• Identify areas where their work is having the most impact
• Make improvements to their research and advocacy strategies

Overall, measuring policy impact is an essential part of being an effective think tank. By tracking their impact, think tanks can ensure that they are making a difference in the world.

Here are some additional tips for measuring policy impact:

• Be clear about your goals. What do you want to achieve with your research and advocacy?
• Choose the right metrics. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to measuring policy impact. The metrics you choose will depend on your goals and the nature of your work.
• Collect data regularly. The more data you collect, the better equipped you will be to track your progress and make adjustments to your strategies as needed.
• Analyse your data carefully. Don't just look at the numbers. Take the time to understand what they mean and what they tell you about your impact.
• Communicate your results. Share your findings with policymakers, funders, and other stakeholders. This will help you build credibility and support for your work.

Measuring policy impact can be a challenging but rewarding undertaking. By following these tips, you can make the process easier and more effective.