ABSTRACT
Previous chapters described how the Challenge Program on Water and Food (CPWF) adopted a research-for-development (R4D) approach to address problems in complex adaptive water and food systems. In R4D, the entire research process, including outputs, can be the basis for strategic engagement with decision-makers. Engagement strategies feature the participation of development actors or boundary partners. They aim to modify decision-maker knowledge, attitudes and skills to influence policy and practice (outcomes). Engaging decision-makers from the outset allows them to contribute to define the problem, set priorities, and design and implement the research. Strategic engagement creates feedback loops to improve research itself. New information can improve researchers’ and decision-makers’ understanding of the problem in hand and how to address it (Figure 7.1).
