ESIC series, Paper 2: Applying the Double diamond model and codesign principles to the Evidence Synthesis Infrastructure Collaborative (ESIC) planning process.

Abstract

Background and objectives: The production and use of evidence for decision-making remains fragmented, inefficient, and inequitable. The Evidence Synthesis Infrastructure Collaborative (ESIC) planning process builds on the Global Evidence Commission and the SHOW ME the Evidence features. It was launched in late 2024 to strengthen collaboration across the evidence ecosystem. The objective was to describe the methodology behind the ESIC planning process, including the strategies used to make it open and equitable.

Methods: Over 6 months in 2025, the Double Diamond model was combined with co-design principles within a convergence research framework. An open call drew 382 expressions of interest, and 145 participants were recruited across 6 groups. Groups were balanced by geography, sector, interest holder category, language, career stage, and gender. The four stages were mapped to specific activities: discover (capability mapping), define (capability maturity assessment), develop (solution ideation), and deliver (prioritization using an impact-effort matrix with equity and legitimacy lenses). Interest holder and open consultations informed each stage, and a parallel costing stream modeled what implementation would require.

Results: Of the participants, 52% were from the Global South and 69% from sectors other than health. Capability varied considerably across regions, sectors, and resource settings. There were gaps in data sharing, artificial intelligence governance, and sustainable capacity strengthening. Prioritization separated quick wins from long-term, high-impact initiatives, and both were brought together in the ESIC Roadmap and the Cape Town Consensus Charter.

Conclusion: Combining the Double Diamond model with co-design and convergence research gave ESIC a rigorous, adaptable planning methodology. Other global collaborations tackling complex societal challenges could use the same approach.