Grey literature refers to any information source that is not commercially published or undergone a specific peer-review process.
What counts as grey literature?
- Internal reports, such as government white papers or
- NGO or non-profit organization research
- Meeting minutes and notes
- Think tank reports
Why use grey literature?
- Often good quality information produced by experts in their field, e.g. white papers are commissioned by the government from a body of subject specialists
- Providing important insights into the 'reality' of research, e.g. clinical trial data that is not published because the study was not successful and therefore not commercially beneficial
- Reflects the expertise of individuals not associated with academia e.g. independent think tanks; charities representing oppressed groups or individuals; other industry experts (for example, in business or technology).
- Adds insight, perspective and voices that can often be left out of academic discussions reducing risk of bias
