Adding Value in Research

Adding Value in Research is the approach to maximising the potential impact of research through ensuring that our funded research:

• answers questions relevant to clinicians, patients and the public
• uses appropriate design and methods
• is delivered efficiently
• results in accessible full publication, and
• produces unbiased and usable reports.

Adding Value in Research is the positive response to the work of Sir Iain Chalmers and Professor Paul Glasziou in 2009*.  We have used the stages in the research cycle from their framework to identify where we can add value in research.

We undertake a range of activities to support Adding Value in Research. These activities are underpinned by our ‘Needs Led Science Added” (NLSA)’ approach to ensure maximum value from the NIHR’s investment to the NHS and public health decision makers. 

Our programmes regularly assess their research management processes against the Chalmers and Glasziou framework to identify opportunities for quality improvements.

We also participate in the NIHR-wide activities aimed at taking the Adding Value in Research agenda forward across the NIHR. The NIHR is working collaboratively to:

• develop and agree guidance that ensures all primary research it funds is informed by a review of the existing literature
• ensure that all NIHR funded research is published
• develop and agree guidance on the expected timeliness of NIHR funded research being made available publically
• ensure that all NIHR funded research is delivered to time and target, and that information on Adding Value in Research is made available to patients, the public and health professionals, whilst also working to inform the evidence base in this area.

 For further information on Adding Value in Research contact: netscomms@southampton.ac.uk

* ‘Avoidable waste in the production and reporting of research evidence’, The Lancet, Volume 374, Issue 9683, Pages 86 - 89, 4 July 2009, doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(09)60329-9