Table 1 Definitions

Outputs

The direct products/deliverables resulting from research activities. Outputs lead to outcomes. Includes reports, publications, presentations, communication strategies, education and training strategies, relationship building strategies and more.

Outcomes

Changes resulting from research activities and outputs; can include short-term, intermediate, and longer-term outcomes. Outcomes are measurable.

Impacts

Often used synonymously with outcomes, or as a collective term to encompass outputs, uses and outcomes (e.g., [13]). Here, we define as a futuristic identifiable benefit to, or positive influence on, society and other domains [14].

Goals

The predefined target outcomes and impacts of the research activities

Knowledge Translation (KT)

A dynamic and iterative process that includes synthesis, dissemination, exchange, and ethically sound application of knowledge. This process takes place within a complex system of interactions between researchers and knowledge-users which may vary in intensity, complexity, and level of engagement depending on the nature of the research and the findings as well as the needs of the particular knowledge-user. Usually framed as either end-of-grant or integrated [15, 16].

Integrated Knowledge Translation (IKT)

One form of research co-production which emphasizes the engagement of knowledge-users in research. Ideally, this engagement occurs for the entire research process including determining research questions, methodology, data collection, and tools development, interpreting the findings, and helping disseminate the research results [17, 18]. IKT is action-oriented and solutions-focused [2].

Research co-production

A broad definition of collaborative research where researchers work in partnership with knowledge-users. Encompasses terms such as participatory research, engaged scholarship, Mode 2 of knowledge production, collaborative research, or integrated knowledge translation (IKT) [19].