Research Methods & Study Design

The systematic process of identifying and choosing the best tools to measure agreed-upon outcome domains in a study, ensuring the instruments are valid, reliable, and practical.

A voluntary, well-informed agreement by an individual to take part in a study or procedure, based on a clear understanding of the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives. Researchers have an ongoing obligation to keep participants informed.

Pre-specified characteristics a person must have to be eligible for a study, ensuring the right population is enrolled to answer the research question.

An OMERACT working group that evaluates imaging techniques (such as MRI or ultrasound) and biomarkers (such as blood or tissue markers) as outcome measures for use in Core Outcome Sets.

Techniques that create visual pictures of the body’s interior ‚Äî such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans ‚Äî used for diagnosis, monitoring disease, and guiding treatment.

A proposed explanation or prediction for an observed phenomenon that has not yet been confirmed. It forms the central question a research study seeks to answer and must be testable and potentially disprovable.

A qualitative research method where a small group of people discuss a specific topic guided by a trained facilitator, allowing researchers to explore attitudes, experiences, and perceptions in depth.

Information generated through systematic research that is used to support or challenge a claim, guide decisions, or inform clinical practice and policy.

Pre-specified characteristics that disqualify someone from participating in a study, established to protect participant safety and ensure the study produces reliable data.

The scientific study of how often diseases and health events occur in populations, who is affected, and what factors contribute — informing prevention and public health strategies.