Abstract
The paper discusses methodological properties of a sociological research conducted on request from a public administration institution with the aim to improve its performance. The researcher is expected not only to describe and understand reality but also to provide recommendations for suitable change.
This dual role of Researcher and Adviser at the same time opens a series of questions, including ethical ones. The paper discusses several specific features of these types of research projects.
As a possible answer to research dilemmas based on the multiple Researcher/Adviser identity the paper offers the method of heuristic investigation (Kabele, 2000, 2010). The paper is based on reflections of generalizes as well as author's own personal experience of conducting sociology research in a more or less independent manner.