Graphing the Research Process: Toward Modular Empirical Research

Abstract

This paper draws from graph theory to develop an approach for modeling empirical research processes. The proposed approach is based on minimal assumptions about empirical research, which makes it intendedly agnostic of any particular method or field of study. I merely assume that empirical research consists of a series of operations that transform data (observations) to analytical outputs and, consecutively, to more refined outputs. I demonstrate how such a process can be modeled as a directed acyclic graph. A simple way to formalize the progression of research operations that make up a research effort can help scholars to communicate and collaborate more effectively, and to develop information systems that offload administrative work to digital research infrastructures. The robust modularization of empirical research could substantially improve the production of academic knowledge.

Keywords: graph, modularity, research process