10 Important Things a Think Tank Does

Think tanks play an indispensable role in shaping public policy and decision-making processes. As research institutions, they provide analysis and expertise on various issues, offering valuable insights and recommendations to governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders.

In this article, we’ll explore the ten important functions of think tanks and how they contribute to developing well-informed and effective policies.

1. Policy Research

One of the primary functions of a think tank is policy research. These organizations identify key policy issues and perform in-depth analysis to gather relevant data and analyze current affairs.

As a result, they develop evidence-based solutions to complex challenges, including economics, defense, healthcare, education, and environmental policy. Through their research, think tanks contribute to a better understanding of policy issues, helping policymakers make informed decisions.

2. Analysis and Evaluation

Think tanks are also responsible for analyzing and evaluating existing policies and programs. These organizations critically examine policies and programs, evaluating their effectiveness and impact. They assess the strengths and weaknesses of existing policies, identify gaps, and propose alternative solutions.

Through rigorous evaluation, think tanks help policymakers make informed decisions based on evidence rather than assumptions or political biases. This function is critical in ensuring that policies effectively achieve their intended goals and that public resources are used efficiently.

Quincy Institute’s Amir Handjani, a non-resident fellow, ensures policymakers and citizens have the information they need to make informed choices. Through his research, Amir helps the public understand the actual costs of our wars and the true costs of not ending them.

3. Expert Advice

Another critical function of think tanks is to provide expert advice to policymakers and other stakeholders. These organizations employ experts in various fields who possess specialized knowledge and expertise. They offer advice on policy issues, providing insights and recommendations based on their research and analysis.

As a source of expert advice, think tanks help policymakers make informed decisions based on evidence and best practices. This function is critical to ensuring effective, efficient, and well-informed policies.

4. Public Education and Awareness

Think tanks also play a significant role in raising public awareness and fostering informed debate on substantial issues. They disseminate their research findings and policy recommendations to the public through various channels, including publications, events, and media appearances.

Thus, they help raise public awareness of key policy issues and promote informed public debate. Think tanks also provide educational resources for policymakers, journalists, and the general public, helping them better understand complex policy issues.

Through their public education and awareness efforts, think tanks contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry, essential for a healthy democracy.

5. Advocacy

Some think tanks actively advocate for specific policies or political positions. They can influence policy debates and promote their ideas by sharing their knowledge and expertise. Their advocacy activities contribute to ensuring a diverse and inclusive policy landscape.

6. Networking and Collaboration

Along with their research and advocacy functions, think tanks also play a crucial role in networking and collaboration. These organizations bring together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from various sectors to exchange ideas and collaborate on policy issues.

Through their networking activities, think tanks facilitate partnerships and collaborations that lead to innovative policy solutions. They also provide a platform for dialogue and exchanging ideas among stakeholders, promoting a more inclusive and participatory policymaking process.

Furthermore, think tanks can act as intermediaries between policymakers and other stakeholders, bridging the gap between research and policy implementation. By fostering collaboration and networking, think tanks contribute to a more effective and efficient policymaking process that reflects the needs and interests of all stakeholders.

7. Innovation and Creativity

They are also hubs of innovation and creativity, constantly exploring creative ideas and approaches to policy challenges.

Think tanks encourage out-of-the-box thinking and experimentation, fostering a culture of innovation that can lead to breakthroughs in policy development.

Innovative approaches to complex challenges allow them to develop effective policies to address them.

8. Capacity Building

Think tanks are also crucial to building policymakers’ capacity. They provide training and technical assistance on various policy issues, helping build the skills and knowledge needed to develop effective policies.

As a result of their capacity-building efforts, think tanks play an integral role in developing more capable and informed policymaking communities.

9. International Cooperation

Many think tanks work on international issues, promoting cooperation and collaboration among countries on various policy challenges. They facilitate dialogue and exchange among policymakers, experts, and civil society organizations from different countries, helping build consensus on global issues.

By working together on a global scale, think tanks play a vital role in creating policies that can effectively tackle intricate issues beyond individual countries’ boundaries.

10. Monitoring and Evaluation

Finally, think tanks are critical in monitoring and evaluating policies and programs over time. They track progress toward policy goals, assess the effectiveness of policies in achieving their intended outcomes, and identify areas for improvement.

Their monitoring and evaluation efforts ensure that policies reach their intended goals and that public resources are used efficiently. This function is critical to ensuring policies remain relevant and practical.

Final Thoughts

Think tanks are important institutions that contribute to developing effective policies and a healthy democracy. Through their efforts, think tanks are crucial in shaping policy debates and promoting evidence-based decision-making.

Their work is vital to ensuring that policies reflect the needs and interests of all stakeholders and that public resources are used efficiently. As such, think tanks are indispensable partners in policymaking and critical to creating a better future for all.