What preliminary step is needed when preparing for research?

Determining the demographics of the audience is a crucial preliminary step when preparing for research because understanding who the audience is can significantly influence the research design, methods of data collection, and how the findings will be presented. Knowledge of the demographics helps tailor the research objectives to meet the specific needs and interests of the audience, ensuring that the results are relevant and engaging. This step can guide decisions about the types of questions to ask, the way data should be interpreted, and the messaging strategies used to communicate the research outcomes.

In contrast, setting a budget for expenses, identifying potential funding sources, and researching national standards, while important in their own rights, typically follow the initial understanding of the audience and purpose of the research. These factors can shape the scope and viability of the project, but they do not precede or replace the foundational need to identify who will be impacted by or interested in the research findings. Understanding the audience first allows for a more focused and effective research strategy.