Creating innovative research designs: the 10-year Methodological Think Tank case study

Area of Science:

• * Research methodology
• * Mixed methods research
• * Health services research

Background:

• * Complex research questions often require innovative mixed methods designs.
• * Developing such designs can be methodologically challenging for investigators.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To describe an approach for developing innovative mixed methods research designs.
• * To facilitate the creation of research designs for methodologically challenging questions.

Main Methods:

• * Annual Methodological Think Tank involving 3-4 methodologists with balanced quantitative and qualitative expertise.
• * A 2-day intensive discussion of investigator-submitted research questions.
• * Systematic pruning of potential approaches to identify a desirable research method.

Main Results:

• * Seven think tanks produced fundable research designs, leading to K and R01 grant awards.
• * Participating investigators credited the think tank for their success.
• * Key lessons include careful methodologist selection, understanding community development stages, and investigator listening.

Conclusions:

• * The Methodological Think Tank process can be adopted by researchers and academic departments.
• * This approach aids in developing innovative and fundable research designs.