Does evidence still matter?
Hi again everyone!
Does evidence still matter? We think so, and so does this article: https://www.themandarin.com.au/110287-does-evidence-still-matter/
Twenty years on from the popularisation of evidence-based policy, this international review outlines the state of evidence-based policy around the world and what has changed. The ten themes of change outlined in the paper match very well against the VPS Evidence Reform, confirming that the VPS is at the cutting edge of evidence innovation around the world. Highlights include a discussion of the shift from evidence-based policy to evidence-informed policy, which is at the heart of the VPS Evidence Reform. Persistent issues with implementing evidence-informed policy are short-term funding, and a too-narrow focus on ‘what works’ in lieu of the larger context and problem, both of which the Evidence Reform is tackling directly with the Enduring Questions framework.
One of the other key emerging factors is the need for those driving evidence-informed policy to engage with evidence users, instead of operating in silo. This in particular is an approach that we have taken to heart, working to deliver projects in partnership with departments and teams that are implementing key aspects of the reform. That is the only way that we can elevate Victoria as a world leader in evidence usage: together.