Identify your research question and develop your proposal. Clearly outline what your question is and why finding the answer is so important. Describe the process by which you intend to complete your research as well as the materials you will need. Explain the design of your project, the sample size you need and how you intend to obtain participants and the statistical analyses you’ll need to perform to find meaning from your results. Include an estimate of the total costs associated with the project.
Submit your proposal. Your research must be approved before you can start the project. Pitch your strategic research project to multiple funding sources if possible, including the university or organization you work with as well as outside funding opportunities related to your field of research.
Begin the research process outlined in your proposal once your project has been approved and funded. Stick to your original plan for the project as closely as possible, and get any necessary funding changes approved before continuing with the project. Maintain ethical standards throughout the research process and be sure to take detailed notes on each step of the process.
Write up the results of your completed study. Most strategic research projects end in publication through a peer-reviewed journal. If you intend to publish your results, write up your study according to your field’s publication guidelines as well as the individual journal’s guidelines. Complete all steps to get your paper published, including submitting the paper and making any necessary edits to your work.
Complete any final steps required by your supervisory or funding sources. If your research was funded with the expectation that you would give a presentation of your results, for example, prepare thoroughly for the presentation and complete it punctually. Wrap up any loose ends pertaining to your study and double check that all requirements have been met.