Richard Redmond and Elizabeth Curtis describe the process of conducting focus groups. It is specifically aimed at students undertaking research methods modules and those planning to use focus groups as a means of collecting data. It begins with a discussion of the uses of focus groups before moving on to discuss some of the many activities associated with the planning, organising and conducting of focus groups.

The literature suggests that prior to the 1950s, focus groups were almost unknown within the social sciences. Today research studies using focus groups are gaining appeal in academic journals. Likewise, they are being used quite extensively outside academic environments. The aim of this paper by Elizabeth Ann Curtis and Richard Redmond is threefold. Firstly, it introduces the background and main characteristics of focus groups, outlines their uses, and discusses the planning and preparation of focus groups. Secondly it discusses the benefits and limitations associated with the use of focus groups. Thirdly it provides an example of how one of the authors applied focus groups in their own research studies.

An important problem in financial investment is the classification of bonds based on the likelihood that the issuing company may default on the promised payments. Much effort has been invested into simulating the bond rating process using statistical tools. A weakness of these tools is the requirement of statistical assumptions which may not be appropriate for the bond rating problem. In this paper we present results of a study comparing an artificial neural network system, a rule-based expert system and statistical techniques applied to the bond rating problem. The bond rating process is simulated by using published financial data.

Reasons for adverse events are complex and require healthcare managers to evaluate the system issues which impact on the delivery and organization of care.