Research for impact: connecting ideas to real-world change

Research for Impact has become a defining theme in the Information Systems discipline, reflecting the growing expectation that academic work should deliver benefits beyond scholarly circles. This was the focus of two major events: the Research for Impact Workshop at UNSW in 2024 and its continuation at the University of Auckland in September 2025. Both workshops aimed to help researchers design, implement, and measure research that creates meaningful change.

Impact in research goes beyond citations or journal rankings. It refers to demonstrable benefits to society, industry, policy, or culture—changes that stem from research and resonate outside academia. In Information Systems, this often means influencing digital transformation practices, shaping governance of emerging technologies, or improving decision-making in organisations.

The UNSW workshop introduced the DIMA Framework—Designing, Implementing, Measuring, and Assimilating Impact. Sessions focused on identifying research questions aligned with real-world problems, building partnerships with industry and policymakers, and using metrics to assess reach and significance. Case studies illustrated how IS research can influence areas such as cybersecurity policy and digital inclusion strategies. Participants left with actionable plans to embed impact thinking into their projects.

The Auckland workshop expanded the conversation, emphasising skills for early-career researchers. Keynotes showcased scholars who successfully translated research into practice through teaching cases, professional media contributions, and collaborations with industry. Interactive sessions explored publishing in practice-oriented journals and creating impact portfolios that include books and applied research outputs. Panel discussions debated challenges such as balancing rigor with relevance and navigating stakeholder expectations.

Information Systems research operates at the intersection of technology and society. As digital technologies permeate every sector, IS scholars have a unique responsibility—and opportunity—to shape outcomes that are ethical, inclusive, and sustainable. Demonstrating impact strengthens the legitimacy of the field, attracts funding, and ensures our work contributes to solving pressing global challenges. Both workshops underscored a simple truth: impact is not an afterthought—it starts at the design stage and continues throughout the research lifecycle. By embracing this mindset, IS researchers can ensure their work not only advances theory but also drives meaningful change.

CODE—the Centre of Digital Enterprise—has taken a leadership role in advancing this agenda. By hosting the 2025 workshop and fostering collaborations between academia, industry, and government, CODE is positioning itself as a hub for impactful research in the digital domain. Its initiatives encourage researchers to think beyond theoretical contributions and focus on outcomes that shape policy, improve business practices, and enhance societal well-being. Through these efforts, CODE is helping define what impact means for the IS field and how it can be achieved.