title: Ends and means in research design.
abstract: General practice research often is a description of facts rather than a prediction of outcomes. This paper discusses the need to prepare protocols, to do pilot studies (to minimise error) and to be aware of the individuality of doctors and patients. The design or model for a project must be adapted to the question being asked: the means must suit the ends.
mesh_terms: D005194:Family Practice / Q000379:methods; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012107:Research Design