ABSTRACT
This chapter exemplifies the need for and values of using research in policymaking. There are multiple ways of articulating the meaning of research utilization in policy, as well as multiple types of use. The use can occur at any phase of the policymaking process. To address the research-policy gap through partnerships requires an understanding of why the gaps exist. It is telling that researchers from multiple disciplines have examined the gaps' sources, which include differences with respect to the incentive structures for researchers and policymakers, the timeframes for accomplishing their work, mechanisms for sharing information, their professional training and the measures for determining whether they have succeeded. For a knowledge utilization partnership to achieve and maintain long-term success, the parties implementing the process need to secure buy-in from a broad range of stakeholders from the beginning of the effort and take steps to maintain and build policymaker support over time.
