UKCDR’S Research Impact Data Tool: leveraging insights to improve development

UKCDR’S Research Impact Data Tool: leveraging insights to improve development
18 October, 2024

by Research and Policy Officer, Andrea Padilla

Evidence-based decision-making is vital for effective action in tackling global challenges. UKCDR’s new Research Impact Data Tool offers funders, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and researchers a valuable interactive resource to gain insights into the UK’s international development research landscape. But what exactly is this tool, and how can it help you? 

What is the UKCDR Research Impact Data Tool?

The tool is an interactive data visualisation platform that allows users to explore how research conducted by UK HEIs addresses global development challenges. The tool builds on UKCDR’s analysis of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 impact case studies, which detail the impact of research conducted by UK HEIs between 2013 and 2020. Based on this analysis, UKCDR published a report in September 2023, The Landscape of Development Research Impact, which draws on evidence from 891 REF 2021 case study submissions that we identified as having an international development impact. We also published a complementary case study booklet presenting a ‘deep dive’ analysis of ten research case studies that demonstrate good practice, paying particular attention to the enablers that facilitated their success.

Visual diagram of types of impact categories listed in the data tool

In 2024, we have continued this work by creating our powerful new data tool. The tool’s dataset includes the same 891 REF impact case studies we previously identified as contributing to international development research. UKCDR’s definition of international development research captures the multidimensional and universal nature of today’s development challenges, which cut across sectors and national borders. It also recognises different funding sources including Official Development Aid (ODA) and non-ODA funded research.  

International development research 

 “Research that addresses global challenges, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and results in political, economic, social, health or environmental change for the benefit of LMICs, specific regions, and/or the global community” 

The data tool has four complementary dashboards: (1) impact type, (2) funder type, (3) impact location, and (4) SDGs. These dashboards allow users to view and interact with data across key fields such as REF Panels, Units of Assessment (UoAs), and HEIs. The panels and UoA refer broadly to scientific areas and disciplines, respectively. UKCDR’s analysis shows that international development research occurred across all four REF 2021 panels and all 32 UoAs, including disciplines not traditionally associated with development, such as mathematics and philosophy. Dashboards 1, 3 and 4 also provide summaries of case studies and allow dataset download for users to conduct their own analysis. It is important to note that while all 891 submissions are included, the data varied in completeness and consistency. The tool’s main page and dashboard notes record any limitations and caveats. 

visual diagram explaining four data dashboards and search filters featured in the data tool

How can the tool inform your work?

The tool’s unique dataset taken alongside its targeted dashboards and filters, provides valuable insights into the real-life impact of UK HEIs’ research and its role in addressing global challenges. It enables users to explore the breadth of research impact, track funding trends across REF Panels and UoAs, and identify priority areas, geographical distribution, and SDG alignment. This level of detail is an advantage for anyone involved in research funding, management, or delivery.  

Whether you’re a senior decision-maker in a research funder or work in a university’s research office, this tool gives you the evidence needed to make informed, strategic decisions that drive positive change in the world. Here’s how: 

Informed decision-making for research funders 

Funders of UK research can use the tool to better understand their portfolios and make informed investment decisions. For example, a funder can track the impact of climate-related case studies submitted to REF 2021. The Type of Impact dashboard shows that climate change case studies span all four Panels and appear in 15 UoAs, including Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience (UoA 4) and Philosophy (UoA 30). As shown below, while all four types of impact are represented, Instrumental impact (policy or practice changes) and Conceptual impact (shifts in framing or debates) are the most common. The tool highlights opportunities for increasing Learning & Development and Networks & Connectivity impact across several UoAs. This kind of insight can guide future funding strategies and ensure that resources are directed towards research areas that will have the most transformative effects.

Strategic insights for research managers 

For HEI staff (e.g., researchers, research managers, impact and evaluation practitioners), the tool helps identify research trends and priority areas. For instance, a university’s research office can use the tool to highlight their institution’s contribution towards the SDGs. This not only showcases the real-world impact of their research but also strengthens their case for continued funding and partnerships. The example below shows that international development research from the University of Edinburgh addressed eight SDGs, with the highest contributions going towards Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3) and Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16). 

Supporting the research ecosystem 

Leveraging UKCDR’s comprehensive REF 2021 analysis, the tool is a valuable interactive resource for anyone looking to understand and enhance the UK’s development research efforts. It provides evidence on the real-world impact of UK-funded research, albeit a partial picture as not all impactful research will have been submitted to REF 2021. 

In addressing complex and pressing global challenges such as climate change and public health, the tool supports evidence-based decision-making and encourages increased collaboration. By highlighting trends and gaps in research impact, it encourages cross-discipline and cross-sector collaborations, thus maximising the UK’s research efforts for achieving the SDGs. 

Visit the UKCDR website to explore the tool and discover how UK research is making a difference! 

Is this page helpful?

Related Content