Research Questions: A Key to Developing Shared Understanding in Statistical Consulting

Music City Center 

This study examines the role of creating research questions in the early stages of a statistical consulting project. Research questions are fundamental to designing studies. Well structured research questions can help to clarify the plans for the investigation. In prior work, we have proposed guidelines for formulating quantitative research questions.

Clients and consultants with differing types of expertise and styles of communication may have difficulty aligning on a project's aims and requirements. Crafting a research question in simple terms can help to develop a shared understanding of the project's goals, shape the plans for statistical analyses, and build the working relationship. Framing research questions in a simple, well-structured form can help to foster shared understanding and trust. The research questions can serve as the basis of the initial consultations and inform the working agreement.

The presentation will discuss examples of research questions and how consultants can use these questions to communicate with clients at different stages of the consulting project. This can be an important tool in developing more effective collaborations.

Statistical consulting

research questions

communication 

Section on Statistical Consulting