Abstract:

In this paper, Ipsos MORI and client Citizens Advice Scotland showcase results from the first-ever study to demonstrate the impact and relative efficacy of different deliberative research methods in addressing 'live' public policy questions. We show the real policy impact the findings have had, including on parliamentary and wider debates; for example, a Scottish Parliament debate on the Scottish Government's Energy Efficient Route Map. In the process, we prove the added value of deliberative methods beyond more traditional research methods for engaging consumers in policy questions, busting some myths along the way.