University of Otago Research Impact Guide : What is Impact?

Definitions of Impact

Impact can be defined in several ways but funders and universities are increasingly defining it as the contribution your work makes outside academia.

“A change to the economy, society or environment, beyond contribution to knowledge and skills in research organisations.” MBIE The Impact of Research (2019)

“The contribution that research makes to the economy, society, environment or culture, beyond the contribution to academic research.” Australian Research Council (2022)

“The good that researchers do in the world.” Professor Mark Reed, Fast Track Impact

Why is Impact Important?

Academics engage in research in order to make a difference. While contributing to academic knowledge remains a valuable endeavour, funders and research institutions are increasingly seeking evidence that the research they support benefits people's lives, the economy, and/or the environment.   

“A stronger research impact agenda will help research organisations meet their social responsibilities, lead to research that is more relevant and more connected to end users, and ultimately support greater impact from research." MBIE (2019)

“Articulation of the impact of research is now compulsory in many funds at the (“exante”) planning and application stages, and at the (“ex-post”) reporting stage following funding.” University of Otago, Research Impact Framework (2022)

Types of Impact

There are many different types of impact. Professor Mark Reed, CEO of Fast Track Impact, has distinguished ten types of impact that are a useful starting point. Consider the full range of impacts as you might be surprised at the possible flow-on effects your research could have.