Introduction The study design describes the products, resources and processes involved in the study, including:
• the population being studied; • the rationale and technique for sampling from that population; • the process for allocating and administering the treatments (the term “intervention” is often used as an alternative to treatment); • the methods used to reduce bias and determine sample size.
The overall goal of experimental design is to ensure that the design is appropriate for the objectives of the study. The following design guidelines are intended to indicate what you need to consider when selecting an experimental design.