When we started this project we had a vision of what this book might look like: a practical introduction to research, evaluation and audit for those new to or wishing to refresh their project management skills set. What we've achieved has more than exceeded our expectations.

We've been fortunate enough to work with colleagues from across library and information sectors and geographic locations. The completed edited collection graphically realizes the fact that the issues we all face when getting started with projects – be they research, evaluation or audit – are universal and can be universally addressed. The book is a coherent set of discrete, yet complementary, chapters that truly lead you from initial general thoughts about a topic, through the planning process, the data collection and analysis, the writing up and dissemination activities, and beyond, ensuring that you are able to maximize the impact of your project wherever you are situated.

We hope you have found this book as enjoyable a read as we have in compiling it. We invite you to get in touch (@ResearchEvalAudit) to let us know what you think and also what else you would have liked to have seen represented. Who knows, perhaps your feedback could prove the inspiration for our next project.