Nicole M. Herman-Mercer Aparna Bamzai-Dodson Megan A. Moore Richard Eugene Waggaman Berl Nicholas W. Cole Oronde Oliver Drakes Diamond Victoria Ebanks David C. Fulton Megan Siobhan Jones Dawn Marie Kotowicz Michael C Mcinturff James R. Meldrum Kathryn Powlen Aaron Daniel Russell Stefan Gabriel Tangen Emily J. Wilkins Amanda E. Cravens 2026 <p><span>“Actionable science” is a widely held standard for identifying the merits of natural resources research. Yet, science is often framed as actionable to a vaguely identified quintessential “manager” without defining either the intended manager or use. Generic descriptions lack precision for identifying end users or their needs, limiting methodological rigor in research design and leading to contextual misalignments of outputs with the need they intended to serve. Further, imprecise terminology limits the ability to evaluate impact, replicate efforts, or foster adoption and implementation of findings. This perspective article presents the heuristic of “who, what, when, where, why, how” to help researchers be more precise when describing their actionable science. Through intentional reflection, researchers can move beyond generic framings of “managers” representing monolithic organizations. “Managers” become individuals, with unique responsibilities, functions, worldviews, and levels of authority, all influencing their use of and need for scientific information and data.</span></p> application/pdf 10.1111/csp2.70329 en Society for Conservation Biology Debunking the myth of the quintessential resource manager: Precision in actionable science article