Critical incident technique

The critical incident technique can be used to collect details of specific impacts through the use of targeted questions.

This technique helps you ask specific questions to included in a questionnaire or interview. This technique has been used extensively in KLS impact studies to draw out impact

Using the technique

Users provide details of a specific instance or use of a service. They  then answer questions relating to the instance or use. In this way KLS staff collect details of specific rather than general impacts.

Example of the technique  

It has been used to collect data on how information from a literature search was used. 

For example, “We recently sent you information on the use of honey for preventing infection post-surgery.  May I ask how you have used this information?”  

The information could be provided in a descriptive manner. You could also use specific outcome measures, like this example:

How was the information used?  

• for a particular patient? 
• for service planning? 
• for developing clinical guidelines?  

The technique has also been used in the design of the generic impact questionnaire.