Research Design and Methodological Advisory

Support organizations and researchers in translating a problem or decision into a feasible, reviewable research question, design, instrument, and analysis plan.

• The problem is clear but the research question is not.
• An instrument requires review or reduction.
• There is uncertainty about sampling, indicators, or design.
• A team needs a quality or ethics protocol.
• A proposal or solicitation requires a defensible methodology.

• Define questions and theory of change or conceptual framework.
• Select design and data sources.
• Develop sample size and allocation.
• Draft questionnaires or interview guides.
• Create analysis plans and question-indicator matrices.
• Review risk, ethics, and data protection.
• Review existing proposals, reports, or instruments.

• Design and facilitation sessions.
• Desk review and options memorandum.
• Cognitive testing or instrument pilot.
• Simulation of sampling and nonresponse scenarios.
• Peer or independent review.

The study population, unit of analysis, and access frame are defined before implementation. Sampling is selected according to purpose, inference needs, resources, and risk. “Representative” is used only where the design supports it, and exclusions, nonresponse, and adjustments are documented.

• Review the question and instrument before fieldwork.
• Pilot or pretest where the assignment permits.
• Train researchers and standardize instructions.
• Monitor completion and apply consistency, duration, and location checks where appropriate.
• Use clear consent, voluntary participation, and harm minimization.
• Separate identifying information and restrict access.
• Document deviations, problems, and corrective action.

• Complete research protocol.
• Design-options matrix with benefits and risks.
• Revised questionnaire or interview guide.
• Sampling, analysis, and quality plans.
• Review memorandum with actionable comments.

• Advisory does not remove the implementing organization’s responsibility.
• The theoretically strongest method may not be feasible or safe.
• Professional judgment is distinguished from commissioner preference.
• Assumptions, alternatives, and trade-offs are documented.

Work begins with the question, intended audience, decision to be supported, relevant areas and groups, schedule, and budget. The Center then proposes a feasible scope, methodology, and deliverables.

Submit a Research Request