What the Project Is
The Research People is a London-based research consultancy specializing in research, evaluation, and strategy for humanitarian and environmental impact funds. Operating in disaster-prone and conflict-affected regions, this project supports humanitarian, climate, and conservation organizations by creating evidence, solving problems, and informing crucial decisions. With an approach that unites diverse research teams from different backgrounds, disciplines, contexts, and languages – think of it as a melting pot of expertise – The Research People manages to deliver world-class research processes while keeping a keen focus on local realities. The consultancy blends high-level strategy development with extensive primary research. This includes qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis and even randomized control trials (RCTs) that provide clear insights into complex challenges.
Main Benefits
- Over 80 research projects delivered for NGOs and donors, ensuring evidence-based decision making;
- Collaboration with more than 30 organizations within humanitarian, climate, and conservation sectors;
- 46 researchers across thirteen countries teamed up in 2022-23, with over 50% of the team hailing from humanitarian contexts;
- A rich history of working since 2017 with innovation funds, private sector entities, and non-governmental organizations dedicated to technology and impact;
- Bang-on expertise led by Lydia Tanner, who holds a PhD in computer science from Oxford, overseeing impactful research in over 30 countries.
Diverse Expertise and Innovation
The Research People stands out by combining diverse expertise from various fields. This dynamic team not only brings together individuals with different academic and professional backgrounds but also integrates local insights and frontline knowledge. The approach is data-backed, influenced by local communities and on-the-ground experts, and often spiced up with moments of lively innovation… It’s not just about numbers and metrics; it’s about understanding human experience and environmental needs in a rapidly changing world.
Focused Approaches in Research
Central to the project’s ethos is the fusion of strategic advice, systematic reviews, and advanced research methodologies such as randomized control trials. This mix ensures that all aspects of research are covered – from qualitative insights to robust quantitative evidence. The consultancy works with multiple stakeholder groups including international and national NGOs, donors, and private sector entities, seeking ways to harness technology and innovation for the benefit of communities and ecosystems. Every study reflects a carefully orchestrated balance between high-level innovation and a deep understanding of local contexts – a truly engaging blend that sparks meaningful discussion.
Collaborative Impact on Communities
Linking research with real-world implications is at the heart of The Research People’s mission. By focusing on humanitarian, climate, and conservation objectives, the project assists organizations in addressing daunting challenges. With each project, there is not only the accumulation of data but also the personal touch of local community input, ensuring that findings resonate with those directly affected. This process, imbued with a genuine interest in driving positive change, contributes to more effective local responses that are both inclusive and resilient, almost like a community huddle working together towards a common goal.
Project Impact Through SDGs
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – ensuring research supports better health outcomes;
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – promoting strategies that enhance community resilience;
- SDG 13: Climate Action – aligning research with urgent climate initiatives;
- SDG 15: Life on Land – fostering sustainable practices in conservation efforts;
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – contributing to frameworks that support societal stability in disaster-prone and conflict-affected regions.
Future Outlook and Advancing Solutions
The Research People envisions a future where innovation serves as a catalyst for a more resilient, inclusive, and harmonious planet. By consistently pushing the boundaries of what research and evaluation can achieve, the project lays down robust foundations for a smarter, more interconnected strategy in tackling global challenges. The approach is not static; it evolves with every new collaboration and project, incorporating the latest technological advances and feedback from frontline experts. In a landscape where challenges continuously morph, the commitment to high-quality, evidence-based research remains unwavering… A dynamic interplay of strategy and rigorous investigation defines this project, ensuring that wasted efforts are transformed into informed, actionable solutions.
