One of the most consistent messages from the national consultations was that people whose job description actually says 'knowledge broker' are rare and that the situation is not likely to change. That's why the foundation was told to shift its emphasis from the idea of the individual knowledge broker to the activity of brokering.
It is very much about doing rather than being. It is a very active role, some what of a viral catalyst.
A broker's main task is to bring people together; they are catalysts who, through diligent network-building and solid background, can create a mix of people and even organizations that will stimulate knowledge exchange, the development of new research and the interpretation and application of solutions.
Brokers search out knowledge, synthesize research and scan for best practices, useful experiences, and examples from outside their own organization. They may also act as advocates for the use of research-based evidence in decision-making and have a role in supporting and evaluating changes they have helped to put in place - although the literature only mentions a generic 'follow-up' role.
Making it happen is very much part of the role, it requires a finisher rather than a starter. Collaboration needs to be nurtured and supported; it must be followed-up with metrics and rewards, taking into account the tacit nature of the mutual benefits.
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