‘Big R – small r’: developing a more inclusive way to talk about research 

Steve Crocker, an ADASS Research Committee member, explores different research approaches in adult social care. He shares insights on their varying scopes and interconnected pathways, which he concludes contribute ‘to healthy, curious, evidence-informed organisations’. 

In adult social care, and across local authorities more broadly, the word ‘research’ can feel intimidating. For some, ‘Big R’ Research evokes images of universities, ethics panels, complex methodology and regulation, and funding bids. It can feel confusing, technical, and reserved for specialists. Yet across our services, people are already engaging in valuable inquiry every day, often without naming it as such. That’s where the idea of the continuum between ‘Big R’ and ‘small r’ research becomes so powerful. 

This concept is a way of attempting to demystify research and making it easier for colleagues to see how their work might fit into a broader research culture. When I recently presented it at a conference, it clearly resonated with academics, health practitioners, and social care colleagues alike. The takeaway was simple: if we only define research as the academic kind, we risk overlooking a huge amount of learning, insight, and innovation already happening in our organisations. 

Most definitions can agree that research is a ‘systematic process’ that investigates questions, gathers evidence, analyses it, and develops conclusions that influence future decisions. In adult care, research shapes understanding, improves practice, and informs policy.  Whatever definition we choose to adopt, we need to recognise that research does not all look the same and can come in various forms. This is where the concept of ‘Big R and small r’ can help. 

The Big R: formal structured research 

‘Big R’ Research is what many people picture first when you mention the word ‘research’. This generally includes: 

• Academic studies with ethical and regulatory oversight 

• Collaborative projects with universities 

• Funded research programmes 

• Methodologically rigorous evaluations 

This work is crucial, and we absolutely need to continue to engage with it. But for many colleagues, the language and processes around ‘Big R’ research can feel inaccessible or even act as a barrier. When we start our journey here, we risk losing people before they’ve even begun. 

The ‘small r’: everyday inquiry that improves services or practice 

At the other end of the continuum sits what can be called the ‘small r’; the everyday activities staff already do that involve gathering information, exploring questions, and learning from people and practice. These can include for example: 

• Staff surveys or surveys with people who draw on care and support 

• Focus groups 

• Co-production and engagement with residents and people drawing on care and support 

• Evaluations of resources, equipment or services 

• ‘Test and Learn’ pilots 

• Student or apprenticeship projects 

These are not ‘lesser’ forms of research, they are simply different. They still need to be legal, safe and ethical in their approach. They still involve curiosity, reflection, and systematic inquiry. They still generate insights that shape services. Most importantly, they help build confidence and skills across the workforce. By recognising them as part of the research continuum, we shine a light on the people doing this work. 

Why the continuum matters 

Drawing a hard line between research and non‑research is difficult, and chasing a universal definition can risk excluding more than it includes. Instead, thinking in terms of a continuum helps us: 

• Make research feel accessible and relevant to all 

• Celebrate and validate existing practices 

• Reduce fear around ‘not doing it right’

• Build research confidence and capability across workforce 

• Encourage people to step gradually into more formal research when ready 

The goal isn’t to replace Big R with small r, or vice versa. It’s to recognise that both matter, and that both contribute to a healthy, curious, evidence‑informed organisation. By naming the work people already do as research, we help colleagues see that they’re part of the story and culture. And by making the world of Big R research feel more approachable, we create pathways for growth, collaboration, and innovation. 

Steve Crocker is Locality Manager, Transformation, Adults Commissioning Service, Dorset Council and a member of the ADASS Research Committee