Online searches

Evidence of impact can sometimes be obtained in the public domain. The evidence found online can be used as corroboration of statements from collaborators or to find new users or unforeseen impact.

Information from the project can be used in search engines to determine areas where the research has been used or contributed to change.

Search Strategy:

Initial searches could include combinations of:

• • Principal investigator and group members name search

  • Collaborators, funders or beneficiaries

  • Situation or Issue

  • Names of studies or key findings

Search results can be followed up with targeted queries on sites relevant to the impact.

• • Local, national or international charities

  • Professional bodies

  • Local or National Government webpages

  • Media outlets

  • Database

To find the most relevant evidence, move from the broadest search to more targeted information retrieval using AND, NOT , OR functions. This should provide the most relevant results for the impact claimed.

Links from research to impact may be demonstrated through a word or citation search of reports, news articles, guidelines etc. You could also use databases to discovery where your publications have been cited.

It is useful to remember the significance of the evidence found will be related to the impact claimed e.g. media articles would be suitable for demonstrating enhanced public understanding or debate but for health improvement government documents or policies are usually necessary also.