About PDF.Net Research

PDF is an ESRC recognised Research Body

Our clients can expect that we will undertake any project or inquiry for them with all the rigor and robustness of top-level research but that they will maintain full control on the focus, range and scope of their project.

We will work to our clients’ agenda to produce a fit-for-purpose project design grounded in sound theory but not driven by it.

Clients working with us will have:

• An initial meeting to discuss the project and identify the focus of the inquiry
• Full consultation on the project design
• Access to a range of methodologies
• A dedicated project leader to work with them
• Full reporting including interim written reports and progress meetings
• Appropriate access to all data collected (ethics permitting)
• In-built evaluation of the outcomes they have identified as useful to them
• To provide permission for any dissemination and publication activities

Using this approach we have been able to provide the information and analysis our clients need to make appropriate strategic interventions and drive their agendas forward. Information which is reliable and can provide a sound evidence base for effective decision making.

Case Study 1

Human Resource Management in Small and Medium Sized Enterprises

This study with CIPD involved more than 300 UK businesses with between 20 and 200 staff. It involved a research review, and a series of questionnaires and follow up detailed case studies to explore issues related to management and human resourcing. It proposed a number of models of practice and future roles for human resourcing specialists. Aspects of the study were later replicated in a follow up report.

Case Study 2

Employability

This study involved collaboration between some thirty organisations in the private sector, government departments, CIPD, TUC and CBI. More than 900 organisations provided data for the research. Derailed models to promote the social contract for employability between employers and staff were developed which looked at how staff could best contribute to competitiveness and companies to employability. Aspects of this were later replicated in a study in Spain.

Case Study 3

The Case for Coaching

This study commissioned by CIPD and in conjunction with the International Centre for the Study of Coaching looked at the evidence base for the use of coaching in organisations. Consisting of a review of the literature, survey data from 100 organisations and detailed case study of 30 private and public sector companies it developed models for policy and practice in coaching. It demonstrated that, subject to key requirements, coaching worked. Frameworks to improve the effectiveness of coaching were provided.

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