Strengthening Evidence-Based Practice for Commissioners
We worked with a county public health team to strengthen evidence-based decision making within commissioning processes. Public Health Warwickshire sought clarity on how best to support commissioners to use evidence more effectively and to embed behavioural insights into everyday strategic and operational choices.
The Challenge
Commissioners make decisions that influence service design, resource allocation and long-term public health outcomes. Yet even when evidence is available, a range of behavioural factors (from cognitive shortcuts to organisational pressures) shapes how it is used. The team wanted a clearer understanding of these influences and practical guidance on how to support more consistent, evidence-led commissioning.
Our Approach
We conducted a behavioural diagnosis to explore how commissioners access, interpret and apply evidence within their roles. This analysis highlighted the behavioural drivers, motivations and contextual pressures that impact decision-making processes. Alongside this, we delivered capability-building support to help the team incorporate behavioural science into commissioning practice and strengthen confidence in applying evidence in a real-world context.
Solution Delivered
Our recommendations combined behavioural insights with practical tools to help commissioners navigate common decision-making challenges. We provided tailored guidance on improving evidence use, shared strategies for overcoming behavioural barriers, and offered training to embed behavioural-science thinking within public health commissioning.
Impact
The work strengthened the organisation’s ability to support evidence-based commissioning. The team now has clearer insight into the behavioural factors influencing decision making and practical ways to encourage more consistent, confident use of evidence - enhancing the quality and impact of public health programmes across the county.