A How-to Guide for Research Improvement within Research-Performing Institutions

This manuscript offers a guide to supporting research improvement efforts within research-performing institutions, employing methodologies and tools adapted from healthcare and industry. Central to this guide is the application of the “Model for Improvement”, which facilitates structured tests of change through Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles.We describe the integration of these methodologies into the academic setting through co-creation sessions and research improvement projects. These co-creation sessions are designed to engage the research community, including researchers, technicians, professional services staff and students, to collaboratively design and implement improvement projects. By addressing community-led priorities, these projects tackle the barriers identified by the research community and focus on changes that improve the way we support, plan, conduct and report research at our institution. Here, we illustrate how research improvement methodologies can address complex challenges and foster a culture conducive to continuous improvement.This “how-to” guide aims to equip research institutions with practical tools and insights necessary for initiating and sustaining research improvements, ultimately enhancing the research culture and the quality and impact of academic research.