Best Practice in Evidence-Informed Policymaking

Evidence-Informed Policymaking – Why and How It Works

This practical guide demonstrates how both scientific and experience-based evidence can be systematically integrated into all stages of the policy cycle – from identifying and diagnosing problems to developing, implementing and evaluating solutions. Drawing on inspiring case studies from Germany, Europe, and Australia, the guide is aimed at decision-makers seeking more effective, evidence-driven and broadly accepted public policy.

Relevance for Policy Practice

Political decisions are often made under time pressure and based on routines, intuition or political constraints. Yet the message is clear: using more and better evidence leads to more efficient measures, stronger public support, and greater impact – particularly in today’s environment of complex and polarised policy issues.

Key Themes and Takeaways

• What constitutes “good evidence”?

   Differentiation between scientific (quantitative/qualitative) and experiential evidence. Both are valuable – ideally in combination. 

• Evidence across the policy cycle

  • Agenda setting: Prioritising based on urgency, data gaps and political feasibility
  • Diagnosis: Analysing root causes using behavioural science insights
  • Design: Developing, adapting and testing effective policy options
  • Implementation: Addressing resistance, engaging stakeholders, ensuring scalability
  • Evaluation: Measuring impact, cost-effectiveness, long-term outcomes, and learning loops

• Real-world case studies

  Examples include combatting violence against women in Australia, increasing bicycle helmet use in the Netherlands, improving teacher training in Germany, and shaping bottle recycling policy in France. These and other cases demonstrate how evidence not only improves policy effectiveness but also helps build consensus and resolve societal conflicts. 

Practical Recommendations for Policymakers

• Sound evidence is trustworthy, objective, relevant, up-to-date, and methodologically robust.
• Successful evidence-informed policy requires: low-threshold tools, clear processes, interdisciplinary collaboration, and data literacy.
• Even under high political pressure, evidence enables more legitimate, transparent decisions and helps build public trust.

Conclusion

This guide provides actionable impulses for integrating evidence into everyday policymaking. It does not just argue 'why' evidence matters – it shows 'how' to make it work. A practical toolbox for all who aim to increase public impact and restore trust in government.