The scientific method is the basis of our modern world. The method involves the steps of developing a hypotheses, planning and performing experiments, and evaluating the results. Completion of these steps does not guarantee a successful outcome on the first try, but has the advantage of eventually converging on a solution (if indeed a solution can be found). Most are familiar (though not necessarily experienced) with these steps, but overlook the fact that unless a core set of disciplines are used throughout these processes, the results produced by the process may not be valid.
Within process improvement communities, Edward Deming taught his disciples how to apply this scientific method through his PDCA framework. The PDCA steps also are self-correcting, and require a similar set of underlying disciplines to be successful. These disciplines help ensure that when observations are made about a phenomenon or an outcome, the results are sufficiently reliable to be acted on, and that those actions will eventually produce what is desired. These disciplines are key to establishing a research organization's maturity in performing the scientific method consistently and produce results over time that can be reproduced by others, during peer reviews. The maturity of an endeavor is thus judged by their ability to consistently apply a process, make valid observations about it, and successfully act on those results, especially as techniques, people, technology, and hypotheses evolve over time.