The Lab’s approach includes using randomized controlled trials—the gold standard for research—to generate evidence on whether a program will work and how best to deploy it. This process begins by sitting down with governments and working hand-in-hand to identify the challenges they are facing and possible solutions. Those solutions are then rigorously tested on the ground to make sure they work. This robust model ensures the right questions are being answered and results can be scaled up into lasting policy changes.

Part of the lab’s approach includes hiring full-time research fellows to be based at partner government agencies. This allows the Lab to provide greater support throughout a potential research project, as well as serve as an additional resource for governments.