Full Idea
One explanation will be a better explanation that another if it also explains a set of phenomena from a different field ('consilience').
Gist of Idea
An explanation is better if it also explains phenomena from a different field
Source
J.J.C. Smart (Explanation - Opening Address [1990], p.07)
Book Reference
'Explanation and Its Limits', ed/tr. Knowles,Dudley [CUP 1990], p.7
A Reaction
This would count as 'unexpected accommodation', rather than prediction. It is a nice addition to Lipton's comparison of mere accommodation versus prediction as criteria. It sounds like a strong criterion for a persuasive explanation.