Book Review: Building and Running a Successful Research Business. A guide for the Independent Information Professional
Jinfo Blog

By Joanna Ptolomey

Abstract

If you have ever wondered what it is like or what it takes to be an independent information professional then this is the book for you.  However, it is just as relevant if you are already a practising professional.

Item

Building and Running a Successful Research Business.  A guide for the Independent Information Professional.  Second Edition. Mary Ellen Bates

If you have ever wondered what it is like or what it takes to be an independent information professional then this is the book for you.  However, it is just as relevant if you are already a practising professional.

This book should come with a warning.  I believe that it is designed to be actioned upon, it is a change agent, it provides a framework for discovery and implementation, it is a crutch, it brings good news and bad news, makes you face up to who you are, and questions what is really important to you.  You will use this book for some, or all of these points, on your start up or continuing journey.  

The book feels like a course of study on "how to", but also a reflective learning tool.  The topics are ordered and presented in a way that makes sense and broken down into 4 sections.  This is helpful, but also does not present a rigid format.

1. Getting started
   
   
2. Running the business
   
   
3. Marketing
   
   
4. Researching
   

I have run my own business for over 10 years and I would recommend reading the book from cover to cover in the first instance. You will get a feel for what it takes to design and manage a business, or reflect on your current business model.

The book has quite a US feel - the language, some advice and stylistically.  What is important, though, is that the advice is good, well researched and presented, and non-US readers also benefit.  For example, the "setting up in business" section points UK-based providers to HM Revenue and Customs for self-employed status.

The book deals very well with nuances that are difficult to learn.  My favourite is "managing clients" in section 2.  This is an incredibly important section for "calming the newbie" or "rethinking your approach for oldies".  Yes, it is important to get work, get clients and bring home the dough... but that is a very simplistic approach.  Volume, size, and type of project will be unique to your skills and interest.  Consideration is also given to consultancy frameworks and writing proposals -- common for large public sector and government projects.  It is OK to say no to work or clients, and the author tells you why.

Other sections that merit a mention are section 4, "reference interview" and "thinking like a researcher".  Get these wrong at your peril.  They go hand in hand and will empower you as the information professional to help clients focus in on their questions and simultaneously the knowledge you need to handle the process.

It is worth someone's time to read this book?  The short answer is yes, and here are some best uses:

1. Thinking about starting your own business: This is the best insight to what is takes and "how to".
   
   
2. In the early stages of running a business: Use this book as a framework for your own storyboard.
   
   
3. Running a business for a few years:  Use as a reflective practice tool.  Is your model still working or relevant?  Dip into for bespoke areas or undergo a "service rethink".
   

Starting up, managing change, strategic thinking and operational running... Mary Ellen Bates tells it like it is.  Her experience as a well-known practitioner and thinker for independents adds weight.

I am impressed by hard working practitioners with substance, grit and determination.  Great content is in sharing not just pointing: We want resources, yes, but also advice on tapping into beliefs, processes and perhaps even soul.  We want insight we can trust.  Mary Ellen Bates wants you to discover your own path.  I recommend you take her book along with you.  

« Blog