What I have found to be the most potent tool in effective research has been using my instincts and intuition. Regardless of where the logical trail leads in the search for relevant data, I allow myself to take very divergent and even nonsensical paths. Especially, when a 'pregnant pause' has produced an insight in a new direction. This has allowed me to come up with answers and solutions that have repeatedly astounded those I do research for. The void is the experience of mind that has no things or thoughts in it, but is pregnant with potential.
Meditation is an excellent method for accessing the void in a deliberate manner.
In fact, I would recommend daily meditation for anyone wanting to increase their creativity. Meditation is therapeutic to the nervous system, refreshing for the emotions and insightful for the mind. I meditate daily and believe this has measurably enhanced my creative abilities. As anyone can tell by the nature of this website, I love to do puzzles. When a particular puzzle doesn't lend itself to formal logical thought for solution, I often use the 'pregnant pause' to grok the answer.