COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF STUDY DESIGNS IN HEALTH RESEARCH

Background: A research design is a framework or guiding plan to approach the research subject, data collection, data analysis and study the research problem. Choosing an appropriate study design is a crucial step ahead of researcher. Every Research study design has inherent strengths & weaknesses. It is the situation & the objectives that determine the suitability of a Research study design for a study and not the absolute superiority of one above the other. This study was conducted with the objective to review the strengths, and limitations of research designs and methods of different study designs. Discussion: Strict adherence to research design can provide high-class evidence for rational clinical decision-making.3 Conclusion: Different research designs have their own inherent strengths & weaknesses. Before employing a study, careful thought must be given to an understanding of the scientific principles & the appropriateness of the proposed study design, operational feasibility, information to be obtained, expected duration of the study and expenses. One of the most important steps before beginning research is deciding on your research design.