Aims: A pro-active approach that incorporates the effective use of scientific evidence and data is a major goal in public health work. This study aimed to identify local and regional strengths and barriers to identify, translate, and use relevant evidence of "what works" in public health management. Methods: Focus group discussions were performed among 22 researchers, public health leaders and/or leaders with organisational and policy responsibilities in two municipalities, one county, and a university research centre. Results: Access to the population’s health data is insufficient for taking action. The focus group discussions clarified a need for a skills programme that specifically focuses on analysis and process expertise. Moreover, communication and collaboration among key stakeholders involved in evidence-based practices like research, policy, and practice should be enhanced in order to facilitate evidence-based policy making. Conclusions: The complex relationship between context and behaviour and the necessity of influencing systems and structures as well as individuals to promote change underlines the need for a clear national initiative to facilitate knowledge exchanges among practitioners, policy makers, and researchers.