Research for medical illustrators. Part 1: The research process and planning research.

Medical illustrators have long been involved in the research projects of other workers, by providing photographic and other visual records. These illustrations may be used for measurement purposes, in which case it's important that medical illustrators understand the requirements for using tested protocols which ensure that all variables of the recording medium are controlled. Now that there are degree courses in Medical illustration an increasing number of medical illustrators in the UK are instigating their own research projects, making it all the more important that they understand the research process. This two-part article looks at some of the relevant issues for medical illustrators who are embarking on a research project. Part 1 covers the research method, the selection and planning of projects, ethical, economic and practical considerations, and writing a research proposal. In Part 2, research protocols, trial design, data analysis, writing the report and the role of the supervisor or mentor, will be considered.