Cutting-edge research should be the hallmark of the EU Framework Programmes. From conception, throughout their lifespan and in their conclusions they have the potential to provide answers to many of the challenges faced by our societies. Research in the socio-economic sciences and humanities in particular provides us with important insights to support evidence-based policymaking in Europe. Better policies are particularly needed in the current difficult social and economic climate.

The social and economic challenges which we face require policymaking at all levels - regional, national and European - to move beyond traditional paradigms and create responses which offer sustainable solutions now and in the future. The European Economic Recovery Plan (1) and the EU 2020 strategy (2) create the broad policy context for this approach. “Smart” investment, which focuses on the skills that are needed for the future, is seen as a major pillar of Europe’s strategy to respond to the challenges it faces. The research projects funded under the Framework Programmes can play a major role in giving shape to this approach.

The Directorate-General for Research is supporting researchers and project coordinators in meeting these challenges. In wide-ranging discussions with policymakers and researchers it has explored how to best ensure dialogue between both areas. This dialogue is crucial if the policy messages provided by the research supported by the EU are to contribute to the development of the strategies and approaches necessitated by the realities we face.

This guide is the most recent stage of this process of identifying needs and developing appropriate support. It builds on the work undertaken in our earlier publication “Scientific evidence for policy-making” which identified the key priorities for deepening communication and strengthening the transfer of knowledge and experience between research and policymaking.

This publication is designed to offer an easy-to-read guide which identifies the most important stages in the development of a dynamic communication strategy and which will ensure that the projects funded under the Framework Programmes make a real difference in enabling policymakers to respond to the significant challenges we face. Divided into three parts - Concept, Policy Briefs and Practical Means – this guide is intended to help exploit research concepts into genuine policy action.