researchsuch

Researchsuch is a term used in scholarly discourse to describe an approach to research that foregrounds the design and execution of comprehensive information searches as a central component of knowledge production. It is not a formally codified discipline; rather, it appears in discussions about research methodology and information practices to emphasize how search processes shape findings. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with or as a complement to literature reviews and evidence synthesis, but with a greater focus on the transparency and replicability of search strategies.

Origins and usage: The expression has appeared in methodological debates in information science, library science, and social science research, often in discussions about improving reproducibility, reducing bias, and making decisions traceable. It tends to advocate formal documentation of search protocols, source coverage, and screening criteria.

Methodology: A researchsuch workflow typically includes framing the research question, developing explicit search strategies, selecting databases and sources, defining inclusion and exclusion criteria, screening results, extracting data, and synthesizing results. Emphasis is placed on preregistration of methods, version control of search terms, and reporting that enables replication.

Applications: It is used to structure systematic reviews, policy analyses, and cumulative knowledge projects, particularly where decision-makers rely on transparent evidence bases. It also supports meta-research and auditing of research practices.

Relation to other concepts: Researchsuch overlaps with systematic reviews, rapid reviews, scoping studies, and evidence-based practice, but distinguishes itself by prioritizing the search process as a central, auditable driver of the research cycle.