- Elsevier examines storytelling’s role in research impact reporting
- The academic publishing company outlines “Quest Story” and “Monster Story” narrative frameworks
- Storytelling helps research funders explain societal outcomes and public accountability
Elsevier has examined how storytelling frameworks could help research funders communicate the societal impact of scientific investments and mission-driven research programs.
In an article discussing the evolution of research impact reporting, the academic publishing and analytics company said research funders face growing pressure to demonstrate how publicly funded research contributes to areas such as healthcare, sustainability, economic development and technological innovation.
According to Elsevier, storytelling frameworks could help funding organizations contextualize research outcomes, connect quantitative evidence with human experiences and support accountability to governments, policymakers and taxpayers.
What Storytelling Frameworks Did Elsevier Identify?
Elsevier outlined two primary approaches to research impact storytelling: the “Quest Story” and the “Monster Story.”
The company described the Quest Story as a framework focused on the research journey, including program context, objectives, methodology, outcomes and lessons learned. The approach emphasizes collaboration, progress and long-term societal benefits associated with research initiatives.
Elsevier described the Monster Story as a framework centered on addressing societal challenges and their broader impacts. The company said this approach focuses on the problem being addressed, the methods used to tackle it and the resulting impact.
How Does Storytelling Support Public Accountability?
Elsevier said storytelling could help research organizations combine data, evidence and qualitative outcomes into more accessible explanations of research impact.
The company noted that mission-oriented research programs focused on societal goals could provide built-in narrative structures for communicating progress and outcomes.
Elsevier also referenced the concept of “neural coupling,” which describes how stories could help audiences connect with research objectives and experiences.
What Role Do Funders Play in Research Narratives?
According to Elsevier, research funders play a central role in demonstrating how publicly funded research contributes to societal goals and real-world outcomes.
The company said storytelling could help funding organizations present analytics, evidence and testimonials within a coherent narrative framework.
Elsevier added that research impact reporting should communicate continuing progress, long-term impact and future opportunities associated with research programs.
