Knowing how to find evidence of research impact and document its significance is important for many types of activities:
Much of the content in this guide - originally developed by Andrea L. Dinkelman - was taken or adapted from the guide, Measure Your Research Impact, developed by the University Libraries at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
A number of research organizations have defined research impact. As defined by Research Councils UK, "impact is the demonstrable contribution that excellent research makes to society and the economy. This involves academic, societal, and economic impact."
The Australian Research Council definition is quite similar. "Research impact is the demonstrable contribution that research makes to the economy, society, culture, national security, public policy or services, health, the environment, or quality of life, beyond contributions to academia."
The National Science Foundation reviews proposals in terms of broader impacts criterion. These include:
