Once you've defined your problem, question, or topic, it's time to see what's out there. This may involve interviews, surveys, observations, case studies, action research, laboratory experiments, or a combination of methods.
Don't limit this phase because it's where you explore options and gather ideas!
Use this database to understand basic concepts taught in your courses. It's also a great database for the first step in your research process. It contains short articles from encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks and other reference sources on a wide range of subjects. Get started on your assignment or research project by learning about key people, places, dates, events, concepts, and ideas related to your topic.
A case study is an in-depth study of a particular instance, event, or situation. You can explore a single case study or compare multiple case studies to identify themes. There are a variety of places where you will find case studies and other interior design research. Search for your topic and "case study" in one of the recommended databases. Search for or within designer websites and portfolios using your favorite search engine.
Another great place to find research others have done is in professional publications and magazines. You'll also find some of those in databases listed below.
You will also find additional resources within the the Types of Sources portion of this guide.
Your research question or problem may also require you to conduct some primary research. This may take a variety of forms and involve surveys, observations, or interviews.
Programming and Research by 
Research-Based Programming for Interior Design by 
