What to consider when writing a testimonial

Step 1: Introduction

• Introduce their organisation briefly, including their size, sector, and focus.

• State the context of their collaboration with you, For example: joint project, consultancy, or knowledge exchange.

Step 2: The Relationship

• Emphasise trust and collaboration: Explain how the relationship developed and the mutual respect or understanding established.
• Include a short narrative that personalises the collaboration. For example: how you approached challenges together or built rapport.

Step 3: Specific Research Contribution

• Detail the unique contributions the researcher (research group) brought to the project. For example: problem-solving expertise, methodologies, tools, frameworks developed, or insightful analysis or solutions that were previously unavailable.
• Highlight why their research was chosen and how it addressed specific industry challenges.

Step 4: Evidence of Impact

• Focus on concrete outcomes: Use measurable evidence where possible to substantiate impact.
  Include quantitative data such as specific figures. For example: “led to a 15% reduction in production costs”), increased sales or revenue (by how much), improved product quality or service efficiency (can this be quantified?), a reduction in costs or environmental impact (specific figures).
• If specific figures cannot be shared, use phrases like "substantial improvement" or "significant benefits" with anecdotal examples.
• Include qualitative evidence. For example: improved decision-making or increased confidence in strategic planning.

Note: It’s always best to be specific and use quantitative data, especially if the testimonial is needed for a REF impact case study (ICS).

Step 5: Unexpected Benefits

• Ask the partner to reflect on unanticipated outcomes or benefits (if applicable), as these often strengthen testimonials. For example: "The collaboration led to insights we had not considered before." / "The process also upskilled our team in areas we hadn’t anticipated."

Step 6: Emotional Connection

• Consider including emotions or personal reflections to create a more compelling narrative. For example: “We felt supported throughout the project.” / “Their enthusiasm and commitment were evident from the start.”

Note: This is not important for a REF ICS assessment.

Step 7: Broader Relevance

• Explain how the outcomes of the project could have wider relevance. For example: influencing industry practices or standards, enhancing broader innovation capacity, strengthening links between academia and industry.

Step 8: Endorsement and Future Collaboration

• Include a clear endorsement of the academic’s work and ability to deliver impactful research. For example: “We would sincerely recommend [Name/Research Group] to other industry partners.”

• Suggest their openness to continued or future collaborations, showing trust and mutual benefit.

Note: If this is used for a REF ICS, include this only if it led to further work/collaborations.

Step 9: Closing Reflections

• Testimonials should highlight the importance of partnerships in achieving shared goals. For example: a strong closing might include recognition of the value academic research brings to industry and gratitude for the collaboration and its impact on their organisation.

Note: In the closing remark, impact can be described using vague language. For example: words such as significant improvement, where no quantitative data is used.