National Committee for Quality Management
Research Methods
Define the question
State what the work is intended to establish. Identify the decision, population and conditions to which the question relates.
Choose a method
Select a method appropriate to the question and available information. Explain why its assumptions are reasonable for the intended use.
Select sources
Record inclusion and exclusion rules. Preserve source identity, edition and relevant context so selection can be examined.
Analyze with context
Treat uncertainty, missing information and selection effects explicitly. Avoid substituting a convenient value for an unknown quantity.
Review reasoning
Review the relationship between evidence and conclusion. Record material disagreements and the basis for their disposition.
Report findings
Explain methods, sources, limitations and relevant interests with the findings. Distinguish observations, interpretation and recommendations.
Maintain the record
Material corrections and revisions remain traceable. Read review procedures and source principles.