Efficiently translating research into practice Oklahoma's contribution through the southern climate impacts planning program

Abstract

The University of Oklahoma hosts the Southern Climate Impacts Planning Program (SCIPP). SCIPP uses an applied research model emphasizing collaboration between academic and non-academic stakeholders. The goal is to conduct research that produces data and tools useful to practitioners for increasing resiliency for weather and climate extremes. Over 15 years, SCIPP has communicated research results that influence policy decisions and improve planning, mitigation, adaptation and response efforts. Engaging stakeholders and communicating usable research findings are often implementation challenges. We examine how knowledge management practices can strengthen SCIPP’s collaborations and turn research results into action. SCIPP offers an example of how bridges are being built between academic research and practical applications to inform policy decisions and improve community resilience and preparedness practices. Documenting the results of SCIPP’s applied research model can inform policymakers about how to structure collaborations in other policy arenas. Tightly aligning political intent and accountability expectations with engaged research processes will improve results from public funding and enhance Oklahoman’s quality of life.