Assessing research impact potential: using the transdisciplinary Outcome Spaces Framework with New Zealand’s National Science Challenges

Figures & data

Figure 1. Conceptual map of the three outcome spaces (1. situation, 2. knowledge and 3. learning) indicating a transdisciplinary project within our field of vision that is itself embedded in the broader landscape (Source: Mitchell et al. 2015, p. 91 with permission).

Figure 2. Example of outcome spaces profile: representing differences in investment across outcome spaces (Source: Created by D. Fam).

Figure 3. OSF+ with revised outcomes spaces framework delineating knowledge stocks from knowledge flows (Source: Created by D. Fam).

Figure 4. Example of template used at workshop by participants to map outcome spaces of their respective Challenge (Source: Created by D. Fam).

Figure 5. Challenge A perceived outcomes: Intended (left) and Actual (right) outcome spaces. Knowledge broker profile and a catalyst theory of change.

Figure 6. Challenge B perceived outcomes: Intended (left) and Actual (right) outcome spaces. Knowledge deficit theory of change.

Figure 7. Challenge C perceived outcomes: Intended (left) and Actual (right) outcome spaces. Active engagement theory of change.

Figure 8. Challenge D perceived outcomes: Intended (left) and Actual (right) outcome spaces. Collaboration theory of change.

Table 1. Theories of change that align with participating challenges.

Challenge	Theory of change
A	Catalyst – change occurs through intervening and connecting existing knowledge and knowledge producers with knowledge users
B	Deficit – change occurs through creating knowledge stocks to fill knowledge gaps identified by the NSC and eventual uptake
C	Engagement – change occurs through identifying knowledge users and tailoring materials and activities to their needs
D	Collaboration – change occurs through partnerships with stakeholders to collaboratively identify knowledge gaps and issues to produce knowledge stocks and flows together

Mitchell C, Cordell D, Fam D. 2015. Beginning at the end: the Outcome Spaces Framework to guide purposive transdisciplinary research. Futures. 65:86–96. doi: 10.1016/j.futures.2014.10.007

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