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Can the impact of science be anticipated? A doctoral thesis supported by Latitud proposes a new approach to analyze it
On May 13, Mariangel Pacheco Troisi, advisor to LATU and Latitud (Foundation of the LATU oriented to the planning and implementation of research, development and innovation - R&D) in impact evaluation, presented her doctoral thesis titled "Anticipatory evaluation" The research, which included fieldwork carried out at Latitud, proposes a new methodology to better understand the impact of science, technology, and innovation.
The study builds on Pacheco’s previous work evaluating the impact of LATU’s initiatives and, subsequently, those of Latitud. As a result, she developed a methodology that integrates impact evaluation with strategic foresight, enabling actors within the science, technology, and innovation ecosystem not only to measure outcomes but also to identify opportunities to strengthen societal engagement and maximize benefits.
During the presentation, Pacheco —who has been collaborating with LATU for the past 12 years— explained how the tool, developed in collaboration with Latitud researchers, aims to overcome the limitations of traditional evaluation approaches.
The methodology stems from two central questions: How can evaluation support researchers in achieving the expected social impacts? And how can it help energize the trajectory of productive interactions? The approach is grounded in the premise that the social impact of science is largely determined by the quality and evolution of the relationships between science and society.
A key component of the model is the analysis of "productive interactions"—connections between science and society that lead to significant changes in the way societal activities are conducted.
Another central concept is that of "convergence nodes," referring to the points where public policy concerns align with scientific solutions. Identifying these nodes, Pacheco emphasized, is crucial for strengthening productive interactions and overcoming communication barriers, thus facilitating the connection between the supply and demand for scientific and technological knowledge.
At the research team level, the proposed methodology aspires to serve as a tool for enhancing strategic planning, diversifying interactions, and relieving the pressure of simultaneously meeting traditional academic metrics and societal impact expectations.
The thesis also outlines possible extensions and improvements to the methodology, including the integration of additional stakeholder analysis techniques and the development of more robust monitoring mechanisms for the recommendations produced.
LATU and Latitud highlighted the significance of this contribution for scientific organizations in Uruguay, as it offers a valuable tool for anticipation. By strengthening the link between scientific institutions and societal challenges, it enables more effective prioritization and action.
Both institutions have led pioneering initiatives in impact evaluation and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting it as a key tool to enhance the value of science, technology, and innovation in Uruguay.
