How to Do Research: The Complete Guide to Designing and Managing Research Projects (3rd ed.)

Citation

Ashcroft, L. (2000), "How to Do Research: The Complete Guide to Designing and Managing Research Projects (3rd ed.)", New Library World, Vol. 101 No. 7, pp. 333-336. https://doi.org/10.1108/nlw.2000.101.7.333.1

The second edition of this book was published in 1987; hence this third edition was long overdue and is welcome. The aim of the book is to provide practical help and guidance to anyone undertaking academic or social research, whether through work or study. The book is presented in a clear and simple style. There are essentially two parts.

The first part, entitled “The research process”, comprises a guide to the research process. This follows a logical sequence. It takes the reader through the stages of developing research objectives, designing the research project, writing the proposal, obtaining financial support for the research, managing the research, drawing conclusions, making recommendations, writing the report and disseminating the results. This is essentially a step‐by‐step guide, broken down under subheadings and is easy to follow. To some extent it is similar to the previous edition, particularly in approach and use of analogies. However, newer developments have been brought in, such as the recommendation to establish a Web site for the research project, which should be kept up‐to‐date and used to publish discussion papers, interim findings and a summary of the final report. Moore suggests that the researcher should “try to construct it so that people can register an interest, perhaps offering their own comments on the project” (p. 61). The chapter on “Obtaining financial support” is interesting. As well as outlining possible support for funding, it also includes sections on how to approach a funder, how to submit, how to respond to calls for tender, and newer approaches, such as consortium funding. Here, various difficulties and drawbacks are included, so that readers are aware of all aspects before beginning this process.

The second part of the book, entitled “Methods”, introduces some of the more common research methods, looks at both qualitative and quantitative data and the processes of collecting and analysing data. Details are given on sampling techniques and analysis packages. This book is updated from the previous edition with the consideration of e‐mail surveys and surveys mounted on Web sites. The issue of selectivity of samples for this approach is raised together with other related issues.

The style of this book makes it very easy to follow. There are helpful summaries at the end of every chapter. There is a list of “Sources of further reading”, which is annotated, and an index. A few useful Web sites are identified, both in the body and in the further reading list.

The information on the back cover of the book says that “this book offers a wealth of invaluable guidance to both new and experienced researchers”. I agree that the clear and simple style and the level of coverage is helpful for new researchers, both professionals and students. However, I am not sure about overall “invaluable guidance” for experienced researchers – although they might be able to pick up some useful tips. Nevertheless it is refreshing to read this clear and logical approach to the research process.