methodology

noun3

1. •
   A collection of methods, practices, procedures and rules used by those who work in some field.

   • For example, an agile methodology should promote the frequent delivery of working systems rather than a single big bang delivery. — 2006
2. •
   The implementation of such methods etc.
3. •
   The study of methods used in a field.

   • In doing so it will describe two metatheories of scientific thought regarding the nature of methodology and epistemology in social science. — 1988