Source research & field studies
Background investigation, primary and secondary data gathering, field studies, stakeholder mapping, and policy review for media and development projects.
A closer look at source research
A strong story or project starts with knowing what is established and what still needs to be investigated. Source research brings background material, relevant voices, and field information into an organized foundation for the next decision.
Who this is for
Media producers, development teams, institutions, and organizations preparing evidence-informed communication or projects.
What to prepare
Define the research question, geographic scope, available reports, and how findings will be used. Discuss access, participant consent, data handling, methods, and reporting expectations before fieldwork.
A clear path from brief to outcome.
- 01
Frame
Agree on the question, scope, and suitable information sources.
- 02
Gather
Review documents and collect agreed field or stakeholder information.
- 03
Organize
Distinguish findings, source limitations, and questions that remain open.
Useful things to know.
Can research support a documentary?
Yes. Background research and source gathering can inform documentary development. The research and production scopes should specify how material will be shared and used.
Do you use both primary and secondary sources?
Both are included in the portfolio. The method depends on the question, available evidence, access, and agreed project scope.
Let’s talk about source research.
Tell us about your audience, your idea, and what you want to communicate.