SHARPENING RESEARCH OUTCOMES THROUGH INNOVATIVE MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP

IN THIS PAPER, the case for what is termed ‘investigative’ research, seeking the cause of problems with unknown mechanisms or aetiology is differentiated from refinement research. Different strategies are needed to achieve successful outcomes in each case. One type of research (investigative) seeks to find the basis for the issue at hand, while the other (refinement) seeks to maximise the value of the management strategy, minimise costs or improve the efficiency of a technique. The basic requirements for each type of research are identified. Investigative research requires program flexibility, innovation, capacity to freely experiment and stimulation of ideas. Refinement research often requires detailed, well-planned programs and known resources applied in planned and consistent experimentation. The upfront recognition of different research strategies presents the opportunity to improve the overall management of research and therefore deliver enhanced industry outcomes.