The Evidence-Based Approach

In the Life Sciences, evidence-based medicine has become a significant driver of innovative care and service delivery for over a decade. At Orion Solutions, we believe the evidence-based approach is equally appropriate in the context of business management.* The essence of the method is applying cutting edge research to the practical challenges of the business environment.

Evidence-based planning and analysis begins with the formulation of critical questions regarding the business environment in which a firm operates. We then undertake a rigorous search for research that may have a bearing in the questions raised. Finally, the evidence base identified is evaluated and adapted to the specific issues faced by the organization.

At it's core, the evidence-based approach is about asking prudent questions and seeking answers that go beyond management fads and cookie-cutter business solutions.

* For an interesting discussion of the evidence-based methodology applied to management see: Pfeffer., J., and Sutton, R. (2006). Evidence-Based Management. Harvard Business Review, 84(1), 62-74.

"A prudent question is one-half of wisdom."

- Francis Bacon