Using Evidence: How research can inform public services - Softcover

Sandra M. Nutley, Professor of Public Management, University of Edinburgh, Isabel Walter, ESRC Research Unit for Research Utilisation, University of St Andrews and Huw T.O. Davies, Department of Management, University of St Andrews

Anyone who has ever written or uttered the words 'evidence-based policy' should read this outstanding book. So should anyone else who has hopes for increasing the rationality of policy or practice through reference to systematic inquiry. The volume unpacks the meanings and assumptions embedded in 'evidence-based policy', illustrates its successes and shortfalls, looks at alternative perspectives on the junction of research and practice, and suggests documented ways to improve the engagement of research with policy and practice. This sophisticated book will challenge some current beliefs and offer better grounded and more realistic aspirations. Carol H. Weiss, Beatrice B. Whiting Professor Emerita, Harvard Graduate School of Education, US

[the book] ought to command wide endorsement Public, 07.06.06

This book is a major contribution to the literature: clear, thoughtful, relevant and evidence-informed. My first bit of advice for the Academy of Management here in the US is for everyone to read your book. Thomas G. Rundall, Henry J. Kaiser Professor of Organized Health Systems, U.C. Berkeley

Using Evidence is important reading for university and government researchers, research funding bodies, public service managers and professionals, and students of public policy and management. It will also prove an invaluable guide for anyone involved in the implementation of evidence-based policy and practice. Social Sciences Newsletter, Summer 2007, Issue 66