Social Justice and Equity Studies

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