From research to evidence-informed decision making: a systematic approach

Abstract

Background: Knowledge creation forms an integral part of the knowledge-to-action framework aimed at bridging the gap between research and evidence-informed decision making. Although principles of science communication, data visualisation and user-centred design largely impact the effectiveness of communication, their role in knowledge creation is still limited. Hence, this article aims to provide researchers a systematic approach on how knowledge creation can be put into practice.

Methods: A systematic two-phased approach towards knowledge creation was formulated and executed. First, during a preparation phase the purpose and audience of the knowledge were defined. Subsequently, a developmental phase facilitated how the content is 'said' (language) and communicated (channel). This developmental phase proceeded via two pathways: a translational cycle and design cycle, during which core translational and design components were incorporated. The entire approach was demonstrated by a case study.

Results: The case study demonstrated how the phases in this systematic approach can be operationalised. It furthermore illustrated how created knowledge can be delivered.

Conclusion: The proposed approach offers researchers a systematic, practical and easy-to-implement tool to facilitate effective knowledge creation towards decision-makers in healthcare. Through the integration of core components of knowledge creation evidence-informed decision making will ultimately be optimized.

Fig. 1

Conceptual framework adopted from Lasswell’s communication model and its extension by Lavis et al. Each step in the sequence represents further interpretations of the framework when communicating evidence-based research (content) to decision-makers (audience) with the purpose to influence evidence-informed decision making. Core components on knowledge creation provide elaborate interpretation of how the content is said and communicated.

Fig. 2

Methodological approach towards knowledge creation Integration of Lasswell’s adapted communication model with Graham’s knowledge-to-action framework. Separate phases provide a step-by-step approach towards knowledge creation.

Fig. 3

From evidence to visual representation of data in five steps. A case study example providing interpretation of the different steps of the translational cycle.

Fig. 4

Core components of knowledge creation integrated into the homepage of the website.