The Knowledge to Action (KTA) framework is an excellent fit with my professional context. In the map below, I've integrated the KTA concepts with the standard research to commercialization continuum (pg.7) to show how I visualized this fit. 

 

Strategic planning for a research program typically involves funding for four phases: basic research, applied research, development and commercialization. I found that these phases fit well with KTA model of knowledge inquiry (basic research), knowledge systhesis (applied research and the knowledge translation efforts required to perform it), knowledge tools/products (commercialization and the knowledge mobilization efforts required to get there). 

 

The result highlights KMb strategies for each type of research: where new knowledge is produced, knowledge inquiry practices are recommended; for applied research, knowledge synthesis for stakeholders is needed; in the development phase, knowledge mobilization by industry and other partners becomes a key facet in research use and, during commercialization, all background research and development is translated into intellectual property to determine if commercialization should be pursued. If yes, then the research knowledge is translated for public use as new products. Commercialization can take make forms and not all involve the transfer of intellectual property. We often refer to it as research uptake and this encompasses the action component of KTA. 

 

For evidence, we use benchmarking, pilot studies and citations. In academic research, there can be no statements of fact without substantiation. As an editor, this is one of my checks in a funding proposal.