Sometimes in my roles as a consultant or an educator a need arises to conduct a small bit of active research to offer a client “the better way forward”.  Typically it is understood that the research is not the only factor involved in making an appropriate decision regarding a change in current organizational operations.  Rather the goal is to gain a more in-depth snapshot of individuals…a group…or a certain setting to make sure of the accuracy of factors impacting what you may or may not want to change.

Why is “Observational Research” an important TRIPLE III TIME topic?

The intent of this “Observational Research” message is to encourage everyone…no matter your job…to occasionally apply this form of “natural assessment” to stay up-to-date with current product/service expectations.  You don’t have to be a degreed scientist to do “Observational Research”.  Instead, just keep your special study simple.  Prioritize these points:

1. Decide what do you want to know.
2. Decide what you need to observe and for how long.
3. Keep resources in mind.  Both time and money!
4. Analyze only what you observe…but include newly discovered insights.

Remember “Observational Research” can be a more quick and efficient way of gaining evidence-based information for planning or decision-making purposes.  Also keep in mind that the purpose of “Observational Research” is to learn more about a certain organizational activity or issue…but not to make comparisons.  Finally, when I utilized my simple “Observational Research” methods…it didn’t matter if a few issues changed during my study time.  Instead it forced me to stay focused on my original “what do I want to know” goal!

Basic “Observational Research” is a useful administrative/management assessment tool.  Try it!