Science web tools provide educators with a method to teach their students complex issues like global climate change, because of their ability to use large datasets and illustrate abstract ideas. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that science tools are efficient and usable so that they can be meaningfully integrated into science curriculum. One of these tools, EzGCM, was created to teach students about the climate modeling process; however, the overall level of user efficiency, accuracy, and satisfaction has never been assessed for users of this website. Researchers created a new version of the EzGCM webtool based on existing user design frameworks that included intentional changes to layout, button placement, labels, and contrasts, meant to aid in user navigation and task completion. An A/B randomized study was performed to assess the overall level of usability for each version of the webtool with introductory level undergraduates, the intended user of the webtool, using a combination of quantitative eye tracking technology and complementary surveys and interviews. The findings in this study suggest that the redesigned version of EzGCM had greater usability than the original version, suggesting that the changes to the interface improved the way users interact with and perceive the tool. This study highlights the general importance of usability testing for new pedagogical tools following this three-dimensional approach and provides recommendations for other website designers regarding page layout and website element design.
This best practice brief presents Component 3 of the Data-to-Deal (D2D) framework, which addresses aligning the development vision. This component focuses on integrating climate ambition with national development priorities to provide a clear, shared direction for subsequent modelling, policy, and finance. Effective visioning strengthens technical design by clarifying objectives and decision criteria, builds political will through inclusive consensus, and enhances investment readiness by signalling stable long-term priorities. Component 3 comprises three sub-components of successful visioning: (i) Laying the foundations for alignment through policy mapping and clear governance arrangements; (ii) Designing iterative and inclusive stakeholder engagement; and (iii) Co-creating the vision by translating shared aspirations into a clear, evidence-based narrative that can guide technical modelling and policy development. These sub-components are embedded across the D2D framework, reinforcing the legitimacy, feasibility, and durability of national transition strategies. The brief draws on case studies, including from Togo, Nigeria, Chile, and Zambia, to illustrate practices that align climate and development objectives and support successful implementation.
This best practice brief presents Component 6 of the Data-to-Deal (D2D) framework, which addresses how to strengthen the enabling environment for investment. This component focuses on the coherent policy, regulatory, and institutional reforms needed to reduce risk, create clear routes to market, and build investor confidence in clean energy and sustainable transport systems. Stable legal frameworks, predictable pricing and incentive structures, and transparent procurement processes are essential to mobilise capital at scale. Component 6 on successful enabling environments comprises three sub-components: (i) operationalising cross-cutting enablers; (ii) identifying and designing policy reforms; and (iii) developing an implementation plan to prioritise and sequence reforms. These sub-components are embedded across the D2D pipeline, linking political commitment, technical planning, and finance mobilisation into a coherent reform agenda. The brief draws on case studies from Zambia, South Africa, and the UK to illustrate how targeted reforms can expand renewable energy, reduce costs, and create investor-ready markets, while also highlighting the role of domestic capital market reforms in unlocking long-term sustainable financing. By operationalising this approach, countries can develop integrated, context-specific reform packages that advance development priorities, meet climate commitments, and strengthen resilience.
This best practice brief presents Component 7 of the Data-to-Deal (D2D) framework which addresses Finance. This component focuses on the development of a national finance strategy to support transitions in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). While many LMICs have developed costed transition plans, implementation remains constrained by access to finance and coordinated investment efforts. Component 7 provides a structured approach to align national priorities with the financial landscape by identifying institutional responsibilities, mapping finance sources, analysing sector cashflows, and structuring viable investment packages. It links closely with preceding D2D components, ensuring policy coherence, technical realism, and stakeholder alignment, as well as offering practical guidance for Ministries of Finance to embed transition priorities within macroeconomic, fiscal, and regulatory frameworks. Drawing on international case studies and diagnostic tools, the brief outlines how governments can blend public and private finance, manage risks such as currency volatility, and prepare bankable proposals that attract investors. By operationalising this component, governments can maximise the impact of scarce concessional resources, plan for a pipeline of investable projects, and strengthen coordination between domestic institutions and international partners.
This best practice brief presents Component 4 of the Data-to-Deal (D2D) framework, which addresses Modelling. This component focuses on the role of scenario-based, policy-relevant modelling in translating shared national visions into implementable transition strategies that are credible to domestic stakeholders and finance partners. Component 4 comprises six sub-components of successful modelling: (i) establishing governance and institutional arrangements; (ii) choosing fit-for-purpose models aligned with policy questions and national priorities; (iii) ensuring transparency and openness in methods and data; (iv) integrating demand-side modelling that reflects spatial and socioeconomic realities; (v) communicating results to inform policy and finance; and (vi) translating modelling into endorsed transition plans. Together, these sub-components guide countries from shared visions and targets towards implementable transition plans grounded in evidence, credibility, and ownership. The brief draws on practical experience and case studies, including Ecuador, Kenya, and the Latin America and Caribbean region as a whole, to illustrate best practices for developing robust modelling workflows that support financing and implementation.
