Evidence-based Decision-making

Design and conduct research and evaluation studies to inform evidence-based decision-making

Evidence-based decision-making is an approach that I have always valued and actively integrated into my practice. In my previous work as a social media content strategist, I used user data to inform my content creation and sharing strategies. Through my MLIS studies, I developed a more structured approach to evaluating and applying evidence, along with a stronger set of techniques for doing so across different contexts.

A key point of growth for me came through the health librarianship course, where supporting evidence-based decision-making was a central focus. In this context, I encountered examples showing how bias and assumptions can lead to significant consequences. For instance, research shows that women’s reports of pain are more likely to be underestimated or dismissed compared to men’s, which can result in delays in diagnosis and treatment.

To better support evidence-based decision-making, I developed practical skills in designing and conducting research. In the course, I practiced structured searching across different contexts, learning how to develop search strategies, select appropriate databases, and refine search terms to ensure both breadth and precision.

In addition, for my final paper, I conducted a literature review on the challenges librarians face in supporting researchers with Tri-Agency RDM policy compliance, to inform decision-making on the development of effective support strategies. Through this process, I iteratively located and refined relevant sources, and engaged with the literature to identify key patterns and gaps, such as issues related to researcher awareness, institutional support, and infrastructure. I then documented my search and screening process to ensure transparency and reproducibility.

In my future work, I aim to apply the rigorous standards of clinical evidence synthesis to broader contexts. I see my role not only as an information provider, but also as a steward who supports decision-making that is transparent, reproducible, and grounded in well-evaluated evidence.