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Table 3 Main translational challenges and solutions implemented

From: Practical lessons for bringing policy-makers on board in sexual and reproductive health research

 

Challenges

CERCA

DIFFER

INPAC

MOMI

Solutions

Challenges depending on individual characteristics of policy-makers

Strategies address different challenges simultaneously. Here are listed the most common solutions implemented by the projects to overcome obstacles:

1. Adapt modes of communication, rhythm and language to policy-makers’ needs.

2. Ensure regularity of communication at all stages of the research process.

3. Be coherent with national and local policies.

4. Build on long-term relationships and networks.

5. Encourage the participation of different types of policy-makers.

6. Consider incentives (financial or training) for policy-makers to engage.

1

Lack of motivation to engage in the project

x

x

x

x

2

Reluctance to share data with project researchers and staff

x

 

x

 

3

Lack of knowledge about research processes and credibility of research results

x

x

  

Structural challenges – policy-making structures and local consortia partners

1

Geographical distance

x

x

  

2

Time constraints to engage in the project

x

 

x

x

3

Personnel turnover at local and national levels

x

 

x

x

4

Lack of weight of the local consortium partner as an organization towards policy-makers

x

x

  

5

Translation activities time-consuming and stretching staff capacity for local consortium partners

 

x

  

6

Translation activities frustrating and non-rewarding for local consortium partners

 

x

 

x