Evidencing and articulating impact for REF 2021
Multiple institutions
Universities were required to submit a large collection of research impact case studies to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, the UK’s national research assessment exercise that determines the distribution of billions of pounds of research funding. Institutions needed to capture and evidence the full range of impacts arising from their research and communicate them effectively. Seven universities asked us for advice, reviews, research and practical writing support to optimise their submissions.
Our approach
In-depth interviews with academics across all research disciplines.
One-to-one coaching of individual researchers and research teams to develop their research impact.
Advised on how to address evidence gaps to better reflect the nature and extent of the impact.
Supported academics to research and evaluate their impact and carry out stakeholder interviews.
Recommended narrative and structural changes to REF 2021 impact case studies and co-authored many of them.
Reviewed and assessed a wide range of case studies based on knowledge of sector best practice to identify where support should be targeted.
Our impact
Cohorts of researchers across disciplines and at differing levels of seniority who could build on their learning and share best practice with colleagues.
Significant improvements made to research impact case studies, resulting in stronger REF 2021 outcomes.
As examples, University of Southampton were 7th in the UK for impact in REF 2021, University of Hertfordshire recorded the sector's largest performance rise in impact, and Nottingham Trent University climbed 21 places in the impact rankings (source: Times Higher).
