Research Methodology notes (Unit 1st) For MBA Students

Unit1
Research is defined as a careful consideration of study regarding a particular concern or a
problem using scientific methods. According to the American sociologist Earl Robert Babbie,
“Research is a systematic inquiry to describe, explain, predict and control the observed
phenomenon. Research involves inductive and deductive methods.”
Meaning:-
Research comprises “creative and systematic work undertaken to increase the stock of
knowledge, including knowledge of humans, culture and society, and the use of this stock of
knowledge to devise new applications.”
It is used to establish or confirm facts, reaffirm the results of previous work, solve new or
existing problems, support theorems, or develop new theories. A research project may also be an
expansion on past work in the field. Research projects can be used to develop further knowledge
on a topic, or in the example of a school research project, they can be used to further a student’s
research process to prepare them for future jobs or reports. To test the validity of instruments,
procedures, or experiments, research may replicate elements of prior projects or the project as a
whole.
The primary purposes of basic research (as opposed to applied research) are documentation,
discovery, interpretation, or the research and development (R&D) of methods and systems for
the advancement of human knowledge. Approaches to research depend on epistemologies, which
vary considerably both within and between humanities and sciences. There are several forms of
research: scientific, humanities, artistic, economic, social, business, marketing, practitioner
research, life, technological, etc.
In Other words
Research is a thorough, orderly, organized, efficient and logical investigation of an area of
knowledge or of a problem. In the broadest sense of the word, the definition of research includes
any gathering of data, information and facts for the advancement of knowledge.
Main components of a research are:

1. Curiosity: Science is knowledge of the physical or material world gained through observation
and experiment. Research begins with a broad question that needs an answer.
2. Theory (Hypothesis)
Researcher creates an assumption to be proved or disproved with the help of data.
3. Experiment
Researchers design an experiment with steps to test and evaluate the theory (hypothesis) and
generate analyzable data. Experiments have controls and a large enough sample group to provide
statistically valid results.
4. Observation
Observing and recording the results of the experiment generated raw data to prove or disprove
the theory.
5. Analysis
Research methods in Statistical analysis on the data and organizing it so that it is understandable
generates answers to the initial question. Data may show trends that allow for the broadening of
the research.
6. Conclusions
Research following the scientific method will either prove or disprove the theory (hypothesis).
What happened and why it needs to be explained by the researcher is concluded. Even when a
theory (hypothesis) is disproved, valuable data collected in the research may lead to further
research. The results are usually published and shared.
Types of Research
1. Basic Research
Basic research is mostly conducted to enhance knowledge. It covers fundamental aspects of
research. The main motivation of this research is knowledge expansion. It is a non-commercial
research and doesn’t facilitate in creating or inventing anything. For example, an experiment is a
good example of basic research.

2. Applied Research
Applied research focuses on analyzing and solving real-life problems. This type of research
refers to the study that helps solve practical problems using scientific methods. This research
plays an important role in solving issues that impact the overall well-being of humans. For
example, finding a specific cure for a disease.
3. Problem Oriented Research
As the name suggests, problem-oriented research is conducted to understand the exact nature of
the problem to find out relevant solutions. The term “problem” refers to having issues or two
thoughts while making any decisions.
For e.g Revenue of a car company has decreased by 12% in the last year. The following could be
the probable causes: There is no optimum production, poor quality of a product, no advertising,
economic conditions etc.
4. Problem Solving Research
This type of research is conducted by companies to understand and resolve their own problems.
The problem-solving research uses applied research to find solutions to the existing problems.
5. Qualitative Research
Qualitative research is a process that is about inquiry that helps in-depth understanding of the
problems or issues in their natural settings. This is a non- statistical research method.
Qualitative research is heavily dependent on the experience of the researchers and the questions
used to probe the sample. The sample size is usually restricted to 6-10 people in a sample. Open-
ended questions are asked in a manner that one question leads to another. The purpose of asking
open-ended questions is to gather as much information as possible from the sample.
Following are the methods used for qualitative research:-
 One-to-one interview
 Focus groups
 Ethnographic Research

 Content/ Text Analysis
 Case study research
6. Quantitative Research
Qualitative research is a structured way of collecting data and analyzing it to draw conclusions.
Unlike qualitative research, this research method uses a computational, statistical and similar
method to collect and analyze data. Quantitative data is all about numbers.
Quantitative research involves a larger population as more number of people means more data.
In this manner, more data can be analyzed to obtain accurate results. This type of research
method uses close-ended questions because, in quantitative research, the researchers are typically
looking at measuring the extent and gathering foolproof statistical data.
Online surveys, questionnaires, and polls are preferable data collection tools used in quantitative
research. There are various methods of deploying surveys or questionnaires. In recent times
online surveys and questionnaires have gained popularity. Survey respondents can receive these
surveys on mobile phones, emails or can simply use the internet to access surveys or
questionnaires.
Qualities of Research
 Empirical: based on observations and experimentation on theories.
 Systematic: follows orderly and sequential procedure.
 Controlled: all variables except those that are tested/experimented upon are kept
constant.
 Employs hypothesis: guides the investigation process
 Analytical: There is critical analysis of all data used so that there is no error in their
interpretation
 Objective, Unbiased, & Logical: all findings are logically based on empirical
 Employs quantitative or statistical methods: data are transformed into numerical
measures and are treated statistically.

Research Application in Functional Area of Business
Part of a business’ growth is the deployment of separate departments which functions
with specific focus and definitive path. They are structured according to certain business
requirements and these departments will vary depending on the type of business being
practiced. Knowing the different functional areas of a business is a basic but major
necessity for an entrepreneur especially when he’s still in the planning stage.
“Functional Areas” is defined as the grouping of activities or processes on the basis of their
need and wants in accomplishing one or more tasks. It’s also an alternative term for business
unit. Let’s dive right into the list:
1. Human Resource

Human resource is the most important asset in the business. The heart of an organization lies on
its people. Without people, the day-to-day operation of a business would cease to function. The
success of a business relies fully on the hands of the employees working in the company. In
order to achieve the company’s goals and objectives, the company’s Human Resource
Department is responsible in recruiting the right people with the required skills, qualifications
and experience. They’re responsible for determining the salary and wages of different job
positions in the company. They’re also involved in training employees for their development.
2. Marketing/Promotion
Promotional activities and advertising are the best ways to communicate with your target
customers for them to be able to know the company’s products and services. Effective marketing
and promotional activities will drive long-term success, profitability and growth in market
shares. This department is responsible for promoting the business to generate sales and help the
company grow. Its function involves creating various marketing strategy and planning
promotional campaigns. They are also responsible for monitoring competitor’s activities.
One good example of a business that develops an effective marketing strategy is Velvet Caviar
and how they have completely dominated the market for iPhone Xs Max Case.
3. Production
It’s vital for business that the products are in good quality and free from defects. The production
department is concerned with manufacturing the products, where inputs (raw materials) are
converted into finished output through a series of production process. Their function is to ensure
that the raw materials are made into finished product effectively and efficiently and in good
quality. This department should also maintain the optimum inventory level.
4. Sales
In every business, sales department plays the biggest role in any organization’s success. The
sales department is responsible for generating revenue. The sales department is tasked to ensure
that the sale of products and services results to profit. The sales department coordinates with the
marketing department in terms of brand-awareness, product-launching and more. From the time

the product left the production department. Sales need to develop ways on how to sell the
product to their target users/customers.
5. Customer Service Support
The Customer Service department is responsible for interacting with customers regarding
inquiries, complaints and orders. It also includes having a help desk/reception and contact
centers. It is important for a business to maintain and create relationship with their customers.
Customer service should be provided before, during and after the purchase. This department
focuses on giving good service support, especially to potential, new and existing customers. Part
of a business’ customer relationship management is having an efficient customer service support.
A good relationship with customers will create customer-loyalty.
6. Accounting and Finance
Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business. It is important to manage the business’ cash outflows
and inflows. The company can’t operate without money. If you can’t handle your money
properly, you will lose control of your business. That is where the accounting and finance
department comes in, which is a part of the organization that manages the company’s money.
This department is responsible for accounting, auditing, planning, and organizing finances.
They’re also responsible in producing the company’s financial statements.
7. Distribution
No matter how good the product is, it’s deemed useless if it won’t reach customers. If goods are
not suitable for the distribution channel, expenses involved in the distribution will be considered
wasted. The distribution department is responsible for receiving orders and delivering orders to
the customer at the right place, at the right time.
8. Research and Development
Innovation is the key to every business’ future. Through innovation, it will open new competitive
advantage for the company. Research and Development acts as the catalyst in the innovation
process. They will be responsible for innovations in product, creating its new design and style.
As well as for searching new ways of producing their products by being updated with regards to
the latest technological and economic trends.

9. Administrative and Management
The administrative and management is the backbone of the business. The administrative and
management’s function is to handle the business, planning, decision-making, and also financial
review. This department links with other departments to ensure the smooth flow of information
and operations.
10. Operations
The Operations department is held responsible for overseeing, designing and controlling the
process of production and redesigning business operations if necessary. In a manufacturing
company, operations department designs processes to produce the product efficiently. They also
have to acquire materials and maintenance of equipment, supplies and more.
11. Information Technology Support
Computers and information systems are very essential in business nowadays. The IT department
acts as the backbone of a smooth operation involving the latest technology relevant to the
business. This department is responsible for creating software/s for other departments, providing
direct operating assistance in software-use and data-management to maintain functional areas in
the organization.
12. Purchasing
Purchasing is a basic function of an enterprise especially in manufacturing companies. The
purchasing department is responsible for the procurement of raw materials, machineries,
equipment and supplies. This department ensures that the materials needed are in the right
quantity, at the right price, made available in the right time, from the right supplier. It is also
their task to inform the top management of the changes of the price or material development that
could affect the company’s sales.
13. Legal Department
The legal department is tasked to oversee and identify legal issues in all departments. The
department may also offer training and assistance with employee manuals to ensure that the
company and its employees are kept up-to-date on workplace law and handles filing of legal
documents on government agencies. They also handle customer complaints in a professional

style and represent the company if sued. They act as the official & formal representative/s in
behalf of the company or the founder.
Research and the Scientific Method
For a clear perception of the term research, one should know the meaning of scientific method.
The two terms, research and scientific method, are closely related. Research, as we have already
stated, can be termed as “an inquiry into the nature of, the reasons for, and the consequences of
any particular set of circumstances, whether these circumstances are experimentally controlled or
recorded just as they occur.
Further, research implies the researcher is interested in more than particular results; he is
interested in the repeatability of the results and in their extension to more complicated and
general situations.” On the other hand, the philosophy common to all research methods and
techniques, although they may vary considerably from one science to another, is usually given
the name of scientific method.
Karl Pearson writes, “The scientific method is one and same in the branches (of science) and
that method is the method of all logically trained minds … the unity of all sciences consists alone
in its methods, not its material; the man who classifies facts of any kind whatever, who sees their
mutual relation and describes their sequences, is applying the Scientific Method and is a man of
science.” Scientific method is the pursuit of truth as determined by logical considerations.
The ideal of science is to achieve a systematic interrelation of facts. Scientific method attempts
to achieve “this ideal by experimentation, observation, logical arguments from accepted
postulates and a combination of these three in varying proportions.” In scientific method, logic
aid sin formulating propositions explicitly and accurately so that their possible alternatives
become clear .Further, logic develops the consequences of such alternatives, and when these are
compared with observable phenomena, it becomes possible for the researcher or the scientist to
state which alternatives most in harmony with the observed facts. All this is done through
experimentation and survey investigations which constitute the integral parts of scientific
method.
Experimentation is done to test hypotheses and to discover new relationships. If any, among
variables. But the conclusions drawn on the basis of experimental data are generally criticized

for either faulty assumptions, poorly designed experiments, badly executed experiments or faulty
interpretations. As such the researcher must pay all possible attention while developing the
experimental design and must state only probable inferences. The purpose of survey
investigations may also be to provide scientifically gathered information to work as a basis for
the researchers for their conclusions.
Basic Postulates of Scientific Method
The scientific method is, thus, based on certain basic postulates which can be stated as under:
(i) It relies on empirical evidence;
(ii) It utilizes relevant concepts;
(iii) It is committed to only objective considerations;

(iv) It presupposes ethical neutrality, i.e., it aims at nothing but making only adequate and correct
statements about population objects;
(v) It results into probabilistic predictions;
(vi) Its methodology is made known to all concerned for critical scrutiny are for use in testing the
conclusions through replication;
(vii) It aims at formulating most general axioms or what can be termed as scientific theories.
Thus, “the scientific method encourages a rigorous, impersonal mode of procedure dictated by
the demands of logic and objective procedure.” Accordingly, scientific method implies an
objective, logical and systematic method, i.e., a method free from personal bias or prejudice, a
method to ascertain demonstrable qualities of a phenomenon capable of being verified, a method
wherein the researcher is guided by the rules of logical reasoning, a method wherein the
investigation proceeds inane orderly manner and a method that implies internal consistency.
Major Characteristics of the Scientific Method
The scientific method is the system used by scientists to explore data, generate and test
hypotheses, develop new theories and confirm or reject earlier results. Although the exact
methods used in the different sciences vary (for example, physicists and psychologists work in
very different ways), they share some fundamental attributes that may be called characteristics of
the scientific method.

1. Empirical Observation
The scientific method is empirical. That is, it relies on direct observation of the world, and
disdains hypotheses that run counter to observable fact. This contrasts with methods that rely on
pure reason (including that proposed by Plato) and with methods that rely on emotional or other
subjective factors.
2. Replicable Experiments
Scientific experiments are replicable. That is, if another person duplicates the experiment, he or
she will get the same results. Scientists are supposed to publish enough of their method so that
another person, with appropriate training, could replicate the results. This contrasts with methods
that rely on experiences that are unique to a particular individual or a small group of individuals.
3. Provisional Results
Results obtained through the scientific method are provisional; they are (or ought to be) open to
question and debate. If new data arise that contradict a theory, that theory must be modified. For

example, the phlogiston theory of fire and combustion was rejected when evidence against it
arose.
4. Objective Approach
The scientific method is objective. It relies on facts and on the world as it is, rather than on
beliefs, wishes or desires. Scientists attempt (with varying degrees of success) to remove their
biases when making observations.
5. Systematic Observation
Strictly speaking, the scientific method is systematic; that is, it relies on carefully planned studies
rather than on random or haphazard observation. Nevertheless, science can begin from some
random observation. Isaac Asimov said that the most exciting phrase to hear in science is not
“Eureka!” but “That’s funny.” After the scientist notices something funny, he or she proceeds to
investigate it systematically.
Steps in Scientific Research Process
Scientific Research involves a systematic process that focuses on being objective and gathering
a multitude of information for analysis so that the researcher can come to a conclusion. This
process is used in all research and evaluation projects, regardless of the research method
(scientific method of inquiry, evaluation research, or action research). The process focuses on
testing hunches or ideas in a park and recreation setting through a systematic process. In this
process, the study is documented in such a way that another individual can conduct the same
study again. Any research done without documenting the study so that others can review the
process and results is not an investigation using the scientific research process. The scientific
research process is a multiple-step process where the steps are interlinked with the other steps in
the process. If changes are made in one step of the process, the researcher must review all the
other steps to ensure that the changes are reflected throughout the process. Parks and recreation
professionals are often involved in conducting research or evaluation projects within the agency.
These professionals need to understand the eight steps of the research process as they apply to
conducting a study.

Step 1: Identify the Problem
The first step in the process is to identify a problem or develop a research question. The research
problem may be something the agency identifies as a problem, some knowledge or information
that is needed by the agency, or the desire to identify a recreation trend nationally.
Step 2: Review the Literature
Now that the problem has been identified, the researcher must learn more about the topic under
investigation. To do this, the researcher must review the literature related to the research
problem. This step provides foundational knowledge about the problem area. The review of
literature also educates the researcher about what studies have been conducted in the past, how
these studies were conducted, and the conclusions in the problem area. In the obesity study, the
review of literature enables the programmer to discover horrifying statistics related to the long-
term effects of childhood obesity in terms of health issues, death rates, and projected medical
costs. In addition, the programmer finds several articles and information from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention that describe the benefits of walking 10,000 steps a day. The
information discovered during this step helps the programmer fully understand the magnitude of

the problem, recognize the future consequences of obesity, and identify a strategy to combat
obesity (i.e., walking).
Step 3: Clarify the Problem
Many times the initial problem identified in the first step of the process is too large or broad in
scope. In step 3 of the process, the researcher clarifies the problem and narrows the scope of the
study. This can only be done after the literature has been reviewed. The knowledge gained
through the review of literature guides the researcher in clarifying and narrowing the research
project. In the example, the programmer has identified childhood obesity as the problem and the
purpose of the study. This topic is very broad and could be studied based on genetics, family
environment, diet, exercise, self-confidence, leisure activities, or health issues. All of these areas
cannot be investigated in a single study; therefore, the problem and purpose of the study must be
more clearly defined. The programmer has decided that the purpose of the study is to determine
if walking 10,000 steps a day for three days a week will improve the individual’s health. This
purpose is more narrowly focused and researchable than the original problem.
Step 4: Clearly Define Terms and Concepts
Terms and concepts are words or phrases used in the purpose statement of the study or the
description of the study. These items need to be specifically defined as they apply to the study.
Terms or concepts often have different definitions depending on who is reading the study. To
minimize confusion about what the terms and phrases mean, the researcher must specifically
define them for the study. In the obesity study, the concept of “individual’s health” can be
defined in hundreds of ways, such as physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual health. For this
study, the individual’s health is defined as physical health. The concept of physical health may
also be defined and measured in many ways. In this case, the programmer decides to more
narrowly define “individual health” to refer to the areas of weight, percentage of body fat, and
cholesterol. By defining the terms or concepts more narrowly, the scope of the study is more
manageable for the programmer, making it easier to collect the necessary data for the study

Step 5: Define the Population
Research projects can focus on a specific group of people, facilities, park development,
employee evaluations, programs, financial status, marketing efforts, or the integration of
technology into the operations. For example, if a researcher wants to examine a specific group of
people in the community, the study could examine a specific age group, males or females, people
living in a specific geographic area, or a specific ethnic group. Literally thousands of options are
available to the researcher to specifically identify the group to study. The research problem and
the purpose of the study assist the researcher in identifying the group to involve in the study. In
research terms, the group to involve in the study is always called the population. Defining the
population assists the researcher in several ways. First, it narrows the scope of the study from a
very large population to one that is manageable. Second, the population identifies the group that
the researcher’s efforts will be focused on within the study. This helps ensure that the researcher
stays on the right path during the study. Finally, by defining the population, the researcher
identifies the group that the results will apply to at the conclusion of the study.
Step 6: Develop the Instrumentation Plan
The plan for the study is referred to as the instrumentation plan. The instrumentation plan serves
as the road map for the entire study, specifying who will participate in the study; how, when, and
where data will be collected; and the content of the program. In the obesity study, the researcher
has decided to have the children participate in a walking program for six months. The group of
participants is called the sample, which is a smaller group selected from the population specified
for the study. The study cannot possibly include every 10- to 12-year-old child in the
community, so a smaller group is used to represent the population. The researcher develops the
plan for the walking program, indicating what data will be collected, when and how the data will
be collected, who will collect the data, and how the data will be analyzed. The instrumentation
plan specifies all the steps that must be completed for the study. This ensures that the
programmer has carefully thought through all these decisions and that she provides a step-by-
step plan to be followed in the study.

Step 7: Collect Data
Once the instrumentation plan is completed, the actual study begins with the collection of data.
The collection of data is a critical step in providing the information needed to answer the
research question. Every study includes the collection of some type of data—whether it is from
the literature or from subjects—to answer the research question. Data can be collected in the
form of words on a survey, with a questionnaire, through observations, or from the literature. In
the obesity study, the programmers will be collecting data on the defined variables: weight,
percentage of body fat, cholesterol levels, and the number of days the person walked a total of
10,000 steps during the class.
The researcher collects these data at the first session and at the last session of the program. These
two sets of data are necessary to determine the effect of the walking program on weight, body
fat, and cholesterol level. Once the data are collected on the variables, the researcher is ready to
move to the final step of the process, which is the data analysis.
Step 8: Analyze the Data
All the time, effort, and resources dedicated to steps 1 through 7 of the research process
culminate in this final step. The researcher finally has data to analyze so that the research
question can be answered. In the instrumentation plan, the researcher specified how the data will
be analyzed. The researcher now analyzes the data according to the plan. The results of this
analysis are then reviewed and summarized in a manner directly related to the research
questions. In the obesity study, the researcher compares the measurements of weight, percentage
of body fat, and cholesterol that were taken at the first meeting of the subjects to the
measurements of the same variables at the final program session. These two sets of data will be
analyzed to determine if there was a difference between the first measurement and the second
measurement for each individual in the program. Then, the data will be analyzed to determine if
the differences are statistically significant. If the differences are statistically significant, the study
validates the theory that was the focus of the study. The results of the study also provide valuable
information about one strategy to combat childhood obesity in the community.

As you have probably concluded, conducting studies using the eight steps of the scientific
research process requires you to dedicate time and effort to the planning process. You cannot
conduct a study using the scientific research process when time is limited or the study is done at
the last minute. Researchers who do this conduct studies that result in either false conclusions or
conclusions that are not of any value to the organization.
Concept of Scientific Inquiry
Although closely related to science processes, scientific inquiry extends beyond the mere development
of process skills such as observing, inferring, classifying, predicting, measuring, questioning, interpreting
and analyzing data. Scientific inquiry includes the traditional science processes, but also refers to the
combining of these processes with scientific knowledge, scientific reasoning and critical thinking to
develop scientific knowledge. In addition to “doing” inquiry, the phrase scientific inquiry also refers to
knowledge about inquiry. It is expected that all students understand the rationale of an investigation
and be able to critically analyze the claims made from the data collected. One important understanding
ABOUT is that the so-called fixed set and sequence of steps, known as The Scientific Method, is not an
accurate representation of the multitude of approaches to inquiry followed by scientists. The
contemporary view of scientific inquiry is that the questions guide the approach and the approaches
vary widely within and across scientific disciplines and fields.

At a general level, scientific inquiry can be seen to take several forms. Descriptive research is the
form of research that often characterizes the beginning of a line of research. This is the type of
research that derives the variables and factors important to a particular situation of interest.
Whether descriptive research gives rise to correlational approaches depends upon the field and
topic. If scientists are attempting to find relationships among variables in nature (e.g., pollutants
and animal behavior) the investigations are more correlational than descriptive. Finally, scientists
may design experiments to directly assess the effect of one variable on another. This research is
known as experimental. To briefly distinguish correlational from experimental research, the
former identifies relationships among variables noted in descriptive research and the latter
involves a planned intervention and manipulation of variables related in correlational research in
an attempt to derive causal relationships.
In addition to the various forms that inquiry takes, students should also understand that all
investigations begin with a question, the conclusions must be consistent with data collected, it is
common for scientists following the same procedures to get different results, and data and
evidence are not the same. Regarding this last point, data are the information gathered during an
investigation, but the interpretation of data as being supportive or contrary to a particular
prediction or conclusion is evidence. In short, evidence is interpreted data.
In summary, inquiry can be perceived in three different ways. It can be viewed as a set of skills
to be learned by students and combined in the performance of a scientific investigation. It can
also be viewed as a cognitive outcome that students are to achieve (i.e., what students should
know about inquiry). Finally, inquiry can be considered as a teaching approach that places
students in situations very similar to what scientists experience during their daily work. In this
sense, “scientific inquiry” is viewed as a teaching approach used to communicate scientific
knowledge to students (or allow students to construct their own knowledge).
2.Research Problem
Among all activities defining the research problem is considered as the most crucial and
important step for conducting research. A common statement which define the issue upon which
a research is to be conducted is known as a research problem.it proposes the line of investigation

which is taken by the Researcher foe conducting research. A research problem, or phenomenon
as it might be called in many forms of qualitative research, is the topic you would like to address,
investigate, or study, whether descriptively or experimentally. It is the focus or reason for
engaging in your research. It is typically a topic, phenomenon, or challenge that you are
interested in and with which you are at least somewhat familiar
Example
Formulation of the Research Problem
Five (5) WAYS TO FORMULATE THE RESEARCH PROBLEM
1. Specify the Research Objectives
A clear statement defining your objectives will help you develop effective research.
It will help the decision makers evaluate the research questions your project should answer as
well as the research methods your project will use to answer those questions. It’s critical that you
have manageable objectives. (Two or three clear goals will help to keep your research project
focused and relevant.)
2. Review the Environment or Context of the Research Problem
As a marketing researcher, you must work closely with your team of researchers in defining and
testing environmental variables. This will help you determine whether the findings of your
project will produce enough information to be worth the cost.

In order to do this, you have to identify the environmental variables that will affect the research
project and begin formulating different methods to control these variables.
3. Explore the Nature of the Problem
Research problems range from simple to complex, depending on the number of variables and the
nature of their relationship. Sometimes the relationship between two variables is directly related
to a problem or questions, and other times the relationship is entirely unimportant.
If you understand the nature of the research problem as a researcher, you will be able to better
develop a solution for the problem.
To help you understand all dimensions, you might want to consider focus groups of consumers,
sales people, managers, or professionals to provide what is sometimes much needed insight into
a particular set of questions or problems.
4. Define the Variable Relationships
Marketing plans often focus on creating a sequence of behaviors that occur over time, as in the
adoption of a new package design, or the introduction of a new product.
Such programs create a commitment to follow some behavioral pattern or method in the future.
Studying such a process involves:-
 Determining which variables affect the solution to the research problem.
 Determining the degree to which each variable can be controlled and used for the purposes of the
company.
 Determining the functional relationships between the variables and which variables are critical to
the solution of the research problem.
 During the problem formulation stage, you will want to generate and consider as many courses
of action and variable relationships as possible.
5. The Consequences of Alternative Courses of Action

There are always consequences to any course of action used in one or more projects.
Anticipating and communicating the possible outcomes of various courses of action is a primary
responsibility in the research process.
Management Question, Research Question, Investigation Question
Research Question
The specification of research questions or hypotheses (i.e., what is to be studied) and research
strategy (i.e., how to conduct the study) is an extremely important part of any research project
(Yin, 1989:19). Research questions or hypotheses influence the strategy that is employed in
order to either provide answers to the questions or verify/falsify hypotheses. What research
strategy to use ought to depend on the nature of the problem domain (i.e., sociology, biology,
physics, mathematics, etc.) and exact formulation of research questions.
Formulation of precise research questions requires deep insights into the domain of study: Do the
questions that are to be answered “fit” the research domain? Are they the ones most worthy of
investigation? To which degree will answering the questions contribute to any progress within
the research area? Do practitioners perceive the research questions to concern real problems?
In this particular research project, the pre understanding of enterprise modeling practice was not
considered to be sufficient to formulate precise research questions in advance. Instead, studies of
the problem area were expected to result in more sophisticated understanding of dominant
concepts, so that the research questions could be adjusted accordingly. This research approach
will be argued further for in section . Hence, the research questions presented in section are a
result of iteration through problem formulation and actual research. They are not just “snatched
out of thin air” — they have evolved as a part of the research process.
Research Proposal – Element of Research Proposal
A Research Proposal is a document proposing a research project, generally in the sciences or
academia, and generally constitutes a request for sponsorship of that research. Proposals are

evaluated on the cost and potential impact of the proposed research, and on the soundness of the
proposed plan for carrying it out.
Document that is typically written by a scientist or academic which describes the ideas for an
investigation on a certain topic. The research proposal outlines the process from beginning to
end and may be used to request financing for the project, certification for performing certain
parts of research of the experiment, or as a required task before beginning a college dissertation.
So, let’s take a look at what a research proposal is. When someone is interested in obtaining
support for research, they often write a research proposal. These proposals are intended to
convince people that your ideas and projects are important. They strive to explain how you can
satisfactorily complete the project. A research proposal needs to let people know why the project
is a good and/or needed idea and that you understand what information and studies are already
out there. Keep in mind that the way the proposal is written is also important, as grammar,
structure, and content can make a difference in whether or not the proposal is accepted or
rejected.
Element of Research Proposal
Writing a good proposal will help you manage your time so that you can complete the quarter
with three papers that meet your objectives. The specific format and content of these elements
may vary; they may not always appear as separate sections or in the order listed here.
 Background of the study
 Problem Statement
 Objectives of the study
 Significance of the study
 Limitation of the study
 Definition of terms
 Literature Review
 Methodology
1. Background of the study

The main idea of the background of study is to establish the area of research in which your work
belongs, and to provide a context for the research problem. It also provides information to the
research topic.
In an introduction, the writer should create:
 Reader interest in the topic,
 Lay the broad foundation for the problem that leads to the study.
2. Statement of the problem
When you start a research, you have a question that you wish to seek answer for. The question
leads to a problem that needs to be solved by the research. Begin the research with a description
of the problem or a thesis statement.
3. Objectives of the study
States what your research hopes to accomplish.
4. Significance of the study
Why your research is important and what contributions will it give to the field. It is also advised
to state how your findings can make a difference and why is it important that the research be
carried out.
5. Limitation of the study
It is not possible to include ALL aspects of a particular problem. State what is not included.
Specify the boundaries of you research. A too wide area of investigation is impractical and will
lead to problems.
6. Definition of terms

Terms or concepts that you use should be defined and explained unless they are familiar or
obvious. You should refer to authoritative sources for definitions.
7. Literature Review
This section need not be lengthy but it should reflect your understanding of relevant bodies of
literature. List all pertinent papers or reports that you have consulted in preparing the proposal;
include conversations with faculty, peers or other experts. A well-written review provides a
sense of critical issues which form the background for your own work this quarter.
By doing this it shows that you are aware of the literature study that is required in your research
area. Your review a substantial amount of reading materials before writing your proposal. It
shows that you have sufficient theoretical knowledge in your chosen research area.
By reviewing related literature at this stage, it will make you:
 Aware of other similar work which has been done.
 Expose methodologies that have been adopted and which you may use or adapt.
 Provide sources of information that you do not have yet.
By reviewing related literature at this stage, it will inform you:
 If a chosen area has already been researched extensively.
 Approaches that you do not know of before.
8. Methodology
This section is the heart of the proposal because it provides insight into your perspective as well
as details on how you plan to carry out the project. How will you accomplish your objective(s)?
What theories or concepts will guide the study? How do they or might they suggest the specific
hypotheses or research questions? Where might you run into obstacles?

Explain the specifics of what you want present in your project (statistical data, comparisons of
historical and recent data, the evolution of a paradigm, etc.). One way to do this is by developing
a rough outline of the major topics and sub-topics that you will investigate.
Your timeline and a very rough scope (past – current – future) has been pre-determined. If
outside organizations involved, explain how you are going to get hold of the data. Indicate why
the methodology is used. If existing methodology is not to be used, explain why you need to use
an adapted methodology.
Drafting a Research Proposal
A research proposal informs the reader (your advisor) about the scope and scale of the issue or
idea that you wish to explore in your project. Your proposal should include the following
sections:
1. THE PROBLEM: Provide a Succinct Statement (one paragraph)
Research is not a summary of what is available on a given topic but an original analysis of a
specific problem. A research problem is distinct from a topic in that it is more specific and
orients research toward an analysis or solution.
Research questions have to be complex. If you already know the answer to the question, or if it
can be obtained through a few simple inquiries, it is not an adequate research problem. It should
be a puzzle, a mystery that you want to solve. It should also require you to look at multiple
sources. In introducing your problem in a research proposal, you should provide a succinct
statement which will help you to remain focused on the issue that you are addressing and how
the information you will be discussing is related to that issue.
2. BACKGROUND: Create a Common Ground of Understanding
In order for the reader to understand the issue you are presenting, it is necessary to provide a
context. In a proposal, that section provides a brief overview of the larger issues and ideas of
your topic, and how this specific research problem relates to these larger issues. Whatever you

choose to highlight, the reader should be convinced that your research will contribute to our
understanding of broader social, historical or cultural issues.
3. LITERATURE REVIEW: Enter into the Scholarly Conversation
A research project should be original, rather than reproducing existing literature on the topic.
Yet it is helpful to consider any current research as part of a scholarly conversation. The
literature review section of your proposal is an opportunity to begin that conversation by
reviewing the research to date, indicating what aspects of it your project will build upon and the
ways that your proposed research differs from what has already been done. You should be able
to identify themes that emerge from the existing research as well as its shortcomings. Or, you
may find that what exists on the topic is truly excellent, but that it doesn’t account for the
specific problem you have identified. In this section, you should also clarify the theoretical
orientation of your project and identify specific sources from which you will draw.
4. OBJECTIVES: Preliminary Arguments
In order to build an argument, you must begin to lay out for the reader the claims you are making
and the basis on which you are making them. You should also indicate, even in a preliminary
fashion, the “solution” or interpretation you anticipate will result from your analysis of the
problem. It’s likely (perhaps inevitable) that once you’ve completed your research and are
writing your final paper, your “solution” will be rather different than you anticipated. That, in
fact, may become a useful point for you to discuss in the conclusion to your work. But having
some sense of the result you expect will help keep your work focused on the relevant issues and
will keep you alert to information which may lead to conclusions other than what you expected.
Keep in mind that this is an initial proposal for your research. You have not fully worked out the
argument you intend to present. The objectives you are presenting in the proposal are based on
your initial research into the problem. Experienced researchers understand that the objectives of
their problem get refined as their work progresses. Yours will, too.
5. METHODS: How the Research will be Conducted

Once you have provided a context for your research, you should be able to outline for the reader
the specific steps you will take to address the problem you have identified. This will include a
discussion of research methods. In this section, it is important to be clear about how each step,
or how each specific method you will employ, will help you get at the problem that guides the
research. In other words, if you say you will be doing focus groups, provide a rationale. Why is
a focus group a better way to collect data for your research than a few in-depth interviews?
You should include a timetable for your research in this section. This is not set in stone, but can
be helpful as your work progresses.
CONCLUSION
This is similar to the conclusion of any written piece. You should restate the gist of the problem,
its relationship to larger issues, the information you will use to address this issue and what you
anticipate you will discover.
Evaluating a Research Proposal
1. Make Sure the Proposal Responds to Your Objectives
The proposal process begins before the research firm offers you their take on how they
recommend you conduct your survey and for what price. Instead, the process begins with the
first discussion you have about the survey. Did the researcher take the opportunity to ask you
specific questions about your objectives, the group of people you’d like to survey, and your
ultimate goals? Details regarding your situation should pop up throughout the proposal. Surveys
whose proposals do not incorporate your individual needs cannot possibly meet them.
For example, one research firm may recommend a very straightforward survey plan with a low
price tag. Another may take time to recommend a more involved approach that considers your
needs and objectives but at a higher price.

Ask the higher priced firm to account for the differences. They should have no problem
explaining the rationale behind their recommendations. On the other hand, have the low-cost
provider explain why they believe such a straightforward survey is right for you.
2. Sampling Plan
When reviewing the sampling plan, make sure the proposal mentions sample size, response rate,
number of responses, and maximum sampling error. These figures help you determine whether
you’ll be able to confidently project the survey results to your entire population of interest. If
you’re unsure of the impact these figures have on the quality of your results, ask the researcher.
They should be able to explain them in terms you can understand.
If you’re interested in learning details about specific segments of your circulation, make sure that
the sampling plan accounts for them. Sometimes a simple random selection of names is enough.
In other cases small, but important groups should be over-sampled in order to collect enough
responses to tell a story about the group.
3. Questionnaire
The quantity and types of information sought from respondents will impact cost. Quantity
encompasses the number of questionnaire pages and number of variables to process. Type refers
to how the questions will be processed, the data entry involved, and whether all or just some data
will be cleaned.
No evaluation is complete until you know the approximate number and types of questions
planned for the survey. The number of open-ended questions should be included as well because
open-ended questions that capture verbatim responses can impact the response rate and the price
of your survey. While these details can change during design, knowing the starting point helps
establish what additional questions, pages, or transcribed questions will add to your bottom-line.
In addition, make sure the proposal clearly indicates who will develop the questionnaire content.
Also, determine if it includes enough collaboration time to be sufficiently customized to meet
your particular needs.

4. Data Collection Approach
For online surveys that invite respondents via email to respond to a web-based survey, paying
attention to the data collection series can mean the difference between conducting a successful
survey and one that frustrates your circulation. Multiple emails to respondents can encourage
response by arriving in their inbox throughout the day. Some of the times the emails arrive will
be more convenient for your sample than others. However, you should only send follow-up
emails to non-respondents. Out of privacy concerns, sample members should have the
opportunity to opt-out with each contact. Outbound emails must also be coded to only allow one
response per person, and to prevent others from taking the survey.
Proposals for mailed surveys should clearly outline the data collection series and each
component of the survey kit. A sophisticated mailing series can efficiently improve response
rates and increase the quality of data. Some cost-effective techniques that can boost response
rates include the use of incentives, stamped reply envelopes, follow-up survey kits to non-
respondents, alert letters or postcards, and personalization.
5. Data Processing
Your proposal should highlight the steps the research company will take to make sure that the
data is accurate and representative. Depending on the type of survey, checking logic,
consistency, and outliers can take a significant amount of time. You must have some process
noted to identify inconsistent answers for surveys that collect a significant amount of numerical
data (salary survey, market studies, budget planning). Finally, some percentage of mailed
surveys need to be verified for data entry accuracy.
6. Analysis
A straightforward analysis of survey data can meet many objectives. In other cases, a
multivariate statistical analysis will provide deeper insights to achieve your objectives— making
results easier to use. If your objectives include learning about separate segments of your
circulation, cross tabulations should be specified.

7. Deliverables
A variety of reporting options exist for a survey. These include but are not limited to data tables,
a summary of the results, in-depth analysis, and graphed presentations. As a result, you need to
understand exactly what you’ll receive following your survey and in what format.
If the report and data table samples aren’t offered, ask for them. You want to make sure that data
tables are easy to read and attractive. Consider how well write-ups enhance the clarity and
usability of the results. If you plan to use your reports in presentations, make sure they’ll reflect
well on you. Don’t forget to consider the time you’ll have to take to reformat the results.
8. No Surprises!
Make sure the proposal covers all the bases: what you need to do and provide, what the firm will
do when they will do it, and how much it will cost.
There should be no surprises in what you need to supply. No “you need how much letterhead and
envelopes?” a week before your survey is scheduled to mail.
Review the price carefully and understand what it includes and doesn’t include. Avoid the “you
want how much to report the results?” after your survey is complete.
Proposals with specific timelines will give you an idea of how long each step of the survey takes
and illustrate the total time necessary to complete the project. If you have a deadline of when you
need results, make sure it’s addressed in the proposal. The annual meeting to go over survey
results will be much less engaging if the reports won’t be ready in time.
As with many things, you usually get what you pay for from a research provider. You’ll almost
always be able to find a firm that says they can do the same survey quicker and cheaper than
another.

Research Methodology notes (Unit 1st) For MBA Students

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Research Methodology notes (Unit 1st) For MBA Students