Research collaboration between practitioners and research professionals aims to develop both practice and knowledge. However, a tension can arise between these objectives: to preserve local relevance, the content, form, and timing of data collection may vary between cases, complicating the comparability of local data in a multiple case study. Our Research Practice Partnership found a solution in the 'wallpaper method,' which enriches the Storyline-method with elements from reflexive monitoring and arts-based research. A distinctive feature of the wallpaper method is cumulative joint reflection and interpretation based on previously collected local data. In this contribution, we illustrate the various phases and steps of the method with experiences from our own research in which it was developed and tested. The method resulted in both practice development and an overarching conceptual model. Effective application of the method requires a wide range of professional and research competencies from the collaboration partners. Adequate time and attention are necessary to prepare a partnership for this.
[authors accepted manuscript / post-print]