Improving the quality of reporting of research studies

Abstract

Extensive effort is required to conduct research studies - through obtaining fundingand ethical approval, developing a robust study design, conducting the study andperforming appropriate analysis to drawing appropriate conclusions. At each stageof the process, time, dedication and manpower are needed to deliver a high-qualitystudy. Yet, this effort can go to waste if the study is not reported properly. Achieving high quality research does not end with the analysis stage, butneeds to be taken forward into the dissemination. Researchers owe a duty to studyparticipants, funders and the target audience to ensure that their study is accuratelyand comprehensively reported. It is also beneficial for researchers themselves toadequately promote their own work in order to progress their career and develop areputation in a field to encourage funding organizations to support future studies. The main determinant, for the outside world, of the quality of one's research andthe potential impact of a study is the published report in a journal. This means that, in the study publication, the methods should be clearly detailed, with allimportant aspects described, leading on from and being related to the initial objectives, with a detailed analysis description, results fully and clearly presented, andappropriate and relevant discussion, including limitations of the study. In essence,the report should include all aspects of design and analysis which, in theory, wouldallow the study to be repeated by other researchers. The reader should be able toevaluate the quality of the study, and from there determine the appropriateness ofconclusions. It should also be possible to ascertain whether any bias could havebeen introduced into the research and hence have affected the external validityof the results. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.