When is future work NOT needed?

Bryan and Steve discuss when future work may NOT be needed for specific research topics. Sometimes researchers collect data that indicates a novel concept or approach aimed at improving our field will not work. Despite this evidence, we often say “future work is needed” to study the topic further. But is it? When should researchers read the writing on the wall and discontinue pursuing a particular topic – even if they deeply believe in it? Bryan and Steve discuss some experience they’ve had and have also seen in others related to this topic. Enjoy!