OUR APPROACH
We take an evidence backed approach to decision making through four processes. Namely: Evidence Synthesis, Policy Engagement and Analysis, Capacity Building, Research, Innovation and Evaluation.
The Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES) is dedicated to strengthening evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) in Uganda and the region. We believe this requires a continuous cycle of research, innovation, and evaluation to discover and improve effective strategies. Through operational research, ACRES tests and refines innovative EIDM approaches to ensure they work effectively in real-world settings.
Our team's expertise in scientific communication allows us to share these findings widely, contributing to the broader growth of the EIDM field. Ultimately, by researching, innovating, and evaluating these methods, ACRES works to enhance the quality and impact of evidence-informed decision-making.
Evidence synthesis
The Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES) works directly with policy networks to strengthen how evidence is used in decision-making. We begin by analysing the policy landscape to find opportunities for improvement. We build strong partnerships with key stakeholders through engagement activities like stakeholder mapping, policy dialogues, breakfast meetings, and citizen panels. By managing these networks, we create channels for sharing knowledge and best practices.
The Center shares findings and insights widely using various formats, including podcasts and webinars among others, to promote a culture of evidence-informed decision-making. Our goal is to increase the impact of evidence on policies, leading to better outcomes and solutions that benefit communities across Uganda and the region.
Policy Engagement and Analysis
The Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES) builds and strengthens the skills of researchers, knowledge brokers, and decision-makers in evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM). We begin with introductory workshops to raise awareness and build a foundation for EIDM.
We then provide direct mentoring and advanced training courses, equipping people with the practical skills to apply evidence in their work. Beyond individual training, we also help organizations develop the internal systems and infrastructure needed to sustain EIDM practices long-term.
Through these investments, ACRES works to make evidence-informed decision-making a lasting part of how institutions and professionals operate—leading to better policies, stronger health outcomes, and more effective decisions for communities.
Capacity Building
At ACRES, we conduct studies and operational research to find better, more effective ways of putting evidence into practice.
Our work aims to improve how evidence is used in decision-making. We do this by researching new methods, innovating solutions, and evaluating existing approaches. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure decision-makers have access to the best available evidence, so they can make choices that lead to better policies and outcomes in Uganda and the region.
Through our studies, we contribute to the broader field of evidence-informed decision-making, ensuring our recommendations reflect the latest findings. Our operational research focuses on refining and improving current methods to deliver more effective results in real-world settings.
