On Cowboys and Hot Research Communication

My husband and parents are fans of the modern western TV series, Yellowstone. It’s not really my jam, but I’ve caught enough of it for this Facebook post to snag my attention:

So, yes…for all you gentlemen out there who think you just need to have better bone structure, or more hair on your head, or less hair on your body…that doesn’t really matter.

And you know what? The same is true for research communication.

Sometimes, potential clients will approach me with a request to make something “pretty.” But as the “lipstick on a pig” and “polishing a turd” expressions go…looks don’t really matter if the underlying substance is lacking.

So, what makes research communication attractive to me?

1. It shares methodologically sound, ethically obtained results.
   • Fraud and abuse are not attractive.
2. It shares results that have clear implications for health and well-being.
   • Lacking goals or purpose is not attractive.
3. It follows a focused, coherent path from the first word to the last.
   • Getting lost, repeating yourself, and sharing extraneous info are not attractive.
4. It prepares the audience to take action.
   • Indecision and inaction are not attractive.

Once these basics are in place, does it make sense for a product to also be well-designed? Absolutely. It just doesn’t need to involve a tux, hair plugs, or shoe lifts; good hygiene can go a long way.

What makes research attractive to you? Comment below!