Narrative‐based Practice

Citation

Oliver, G. (2009), "Narrative‐based Practice", The Electronic Library, Vol. 27 No. 4, pp. 735-736. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640470910979660

This very readable book presents a compelling argument for considering narrative‐based practice in addition to evidence‐based practice (EBP). The author (Professor of Information Management at Manchester Metropolitan University) makes the case for research and decision making not only to be informed by quantitative data, but also to take into account the rich picture that can be provided by narratives and stories. The subject matter of the book is applicable to anyone currently using EBP, including professionals working in healthcare, education and information management. The author draws examples to illustrate his points from all these sectors, which ensures a wide relevance. However, it also deserves to be read by anyone with an interest in the workings of organisations, whether from an academic or practitioner perspective, as it provides fascinating insight into the use and potential mis‐use of narrative in the working environment.

The book is divided into eight chapters, with an extensive and up‐to‐date bibliography. It opens with a chapter setting out the origins and current state of EBP, suggesting reasons why EBP has gained the dominance that it has. The author points out that a concern for context and a holistic approach to problems is highlighting the limitations of EBP. This is followed by a very clear account of ontological and epistemological traditions underpinning professional practice, which should assist any student struggling to understand research methods. Having constructed the appropriate context, the author then moves on to define and explore narrative. Narrative is then considered from the perspectives of learning and knowledge management, and as applied in virtual environments and used in organisations. The final chapter weaves all threads together, and provides an overall view of narrative‐based practice. The concluding discussion emphasises the need for honesty, truthfulness and integrity in constructing and using narrative. There are also three appendices with practical guidelines for telling the story, using narrative in team building and planning as well as understanding customer experiences.

The coherency of structure is a major strength of the book, and is particularly effective – surely this is not coincidental given the author's careful analysis of narrative techniques. Also contributing to readability is the liberal use of quotes, from a really wide range of sources. Many of these are stories in themselves, so the author subtly reinforces his key arguments throughout. I highly recommend this book for a wide range of readers: information management students and academics as well as practitioners, in particular anyone actively involved in library management.