MBB3724 Business Research Methods www.wiley.com/college/sekaran MBB3724 Business Research Methods

The Research Process Selecting a topic for research Broad problem area www.wiley.com/college/sekaran The Research Process Selecting a topic for research Broad problem area Preliminary data gathering: Literature Survey APA manual writing style

Overview of Research Process Topic Problem Background Demonstrate Ethical Standards Start References Problem Statement ROs & RQs Defend Proposal End Operational Definitions Prepare Report Conceptual Framework Research Tools Review Literature Research Design Ahmad Othman @2006

Choose a Research Topic Choosing an appropriate subject is a critical step in the success of your research project. It can be also one of the more difficult steps. So plan to allot a few days to consider ideas, investigate availability of relevant materials. The following three steps form a process you might use to choose a successful research project topic.

Step 1: Ideas Where do you find ideas for a research project? Your professor assigns a topic You saw an interesting topic discussed on a TV news program last night You were interested in an issue a colleague mentioned in passing during last week's meeting. You have a personal interest or hobby that you'd like to write about What if you don't have an assigned topic or a subject of interest like these above in mind? There are several sources available to suggest interesting, workable topics for research.

Step 2: Refining an Interesting Idea How do you refine your research subject into a manageable topic? Begin by examining the source that suggested the subject to you. See if you can determine how that writer or speaker would break the subject down into narrower aspects or factors. In many sources, you will see headings, a table of contents or outline to give you some initial ideas for narrower topics. Consider some basic means to limit your topic such as: Consider only the developments of the past year Look at one individual's involvement with the issue Consider examining the issue in one geographic area (for example, water conservation efforts in certain place).

Step 3: Initial Search Plan The final step in developing a strong, successful research topic is to start an information search plan. Begin to make notes and keep lists. Include: types of publications in which you expect to find information related to your specific topic, subject areas in which you expect experts will be discussing your topic, key questions that you have regarding the topic, specific terms and phrases that are used by specialists studying your topic, important names and dates related to the topic. This list making will continue throughout your research and investigation. Having all that information at hand will make the searching and retrieval of research materials more efficient.

Supply chain design and control Samples Supply chain design and control For a topic within this area for your research project, please see the suggestions below. What does "Legality" mean in reference to supply chain design? Uniqueness and strength in Dell Computer Corporation supply chain. Supply chain management: An analysis of manufacturing firms in Malaysia. Supply chain management: An analysis of distributors in Malaysia. Supply chain management and impact of information technology: An analysis of manufacturing firms in Malaysia. E-commerce for supply chain management. Supply chain management: Case study on IBM, Malaysia. How does ICT enable Supply Chain integration and agility? How the supply chain differs on a B2C site compared to a B2B environment. Supply chain control management: A case study on HP, Malaysia.

Inventory Management Samples Suggestions for research project on inventory management are: Inventory management is the backbone of supply chain management: True or False? The influence of information technology in inventory management. Inventory management in manufacturing organizations in Malaysia. Inventory management in retail: a case study on Giants. Inventory management in retail: a case study on Myden. Inventory management in retail: a case study on AEON. Inventory management for e-commerce. Inventory management with multiple procurement modes: A case study in Malaysia. Analytical study of inventory management in a car manufacturing organisation.

Production Scheduling Samples Production Scheduling You could base your research project on any of the following topics. Production scheduling techniques in a manufacturing environment. Production scheduling techniques in a car manufacturing industry. Toyota production scheduling techniques: A case analysis in Malaysia. The significance of theory of constraints in production scheduling. Production scheduling in steel industry. Production scheduling in steel industry: A case study on Mittal Steel. Challenges of production scheduling for SMB organisations. Impact of IT on production scheduling techniques. Innovation in production scheduling techniques. Production scheduling in e-commerce.

Product Development Samples If you are interested in research New Product Development (NPD) the following topics may be useful. Product development, a look inside the process. Product mix and New Product Development strategies. Boeing's product development strategy: A case study. Product development strategy: case study on Dell, Malaysia. Product development strategy: case study on BMW. Product development strategy: Pharmaceutical industry. Product development strategy: e-commerce industry. Product development strategy: case study Amazon.com. Impact of information technology on product development strategy: case study on organisations based in Malaysia.

Design of Services Samples A research project on the design of services could include: Design of services in e-business. AirAsia's marketing service design analysis. Service design in fund management company. Service design in restaurants: a look at restaurants in Malaysia. Design and implementation of e-commerce web services. Four major characteristics of services and the marketing strategies available for the service organisation. Impact of information technology in service design. It's not product, it's not service, and it's solution: a new trend. Importance of service design in the e-commerce world. Future technology impact on service design.

Dynamic Pricing Samples A research project on dynamic pricing would make for very interesting reading. E-business models of dynamic pricing. Dynamic pricing: case study on airlines industry. Dynamic pricing: case study on travel industry. Dynamic pricing: case study on insurance industry. Importance of Dynamic pricing in 'auctioning'. Analysis of the current issues, future trends and opportunities associated with dynamic pricing. E-commerce: significance of dynamic pricing. Dynamic pricing in a B2B environment: a case study in Malaysia. Dynamic pricing in the service industry: a case analysis of an organisation in Malaysia.

Industrial Risk Management Samples Industrial Risk Management This is a very important issue within the business world and make for an excellent research project. Risk management in the construction industry: a case study analysis in Malaysia. Risk management in the automobile industry: a case study analysis in Malaysia. Risk management in the banking industry: a case study analysis in the Malaysia. Risk management in the retail industry: a case study analysis in the Malaysia. Industrial risk management: internal and external factors. Impact of information technology on industrial risk management Risk management in the aviation industry: a case study analysis in the Malaysia. Industrial risk management: Human factors.

Samples Logistics Logistics topics for your research project could include: Is the rise of intermodal international logistics affecting the operations of manufacturing companies? Transport and logistics: an in depth view of Malaysia. Logistics management - Evaluation of the logistics operations carried out within manufacturing organisations Logistic industry and corporate social responsibility: A closer look. Impact of information technology on logistic industry. Principles of logistic management: an evaluation in a practical environment. Anticipatory logistics on supply chain management. Competitive advantage of Giants is its superior logistic management. Value chain strategy of the logistic industry in Malaysia.

Manufacturing and Supply-Chain Strategy Samples Manufacturing and Supply-Chain Strategy Possible topics for your research project are: Manufacturing strategy is the key to business success? Manufacturing strategy: A look inside. Supply chain strategy: case study on BMW. Manufacturing strategy: Pharmaceutical industry. Supply chain strategy: E-commerce industry. Impact of information technology on manufacturing and supply chain strategy: A case study on organisations based in Malaysia

Total quality management Samples Total quality management If you are looking at the area of Total Quality Management for your research project, the following topics may be useful: Is Total Quality Management enough for competitive advantage. Can TQM be a factor of sustainable competitive advantage for SME organisations? Evolution of quality: First fifty issues of production and operations management. Implementation of Total Quality Management: an empirical study of Malaysian manufacturing firms. Total Quality Management and customer satisfaction in homebuilding. The application of Total Quality Management in construction field operations. TQM in today's environment. TQM: Theory and the practical implementation in Malaysia. TQM: influence of information technology.

Research Problem Topic Background Demonstrate Ethical Standards Start References Problem Statement ROs & RQs Defend Proposal End Operational Definitions Prepare Report Conceptual Framework Research Tools Review Literature Research Design Ahmad Othman @2006

What Am I Looking For? Your research should cover: Background information – general information about your problem that might include: Definition and/or explanation of the topic or problem Definition and/or explanation of terms found in the problem Information about topics that relate to the problem Explanation of why it is important to know about this problem Specific Information, including: Results from other experiments similar to yours Information from interviews with experts Studies done by companies or consumer groups that relate to your problem Information necessary to experiment safely

Research Problem Topic Background Demonstrate Ethical Standards Start References Problem Statement ROs & RQs Defend Proposal End Operational Definitions Prepare Report Conceptual Framework Research Tools Review Literature Research Design Ahmad Othman @2006

Formulating Problem Statements: A persuasive problem statement consists of three parts: the ideal, the reality, and the consequences for the reader of the feasibility report.  Your strategy is one of contrast: by situating the ideal scenario next to the situation as it exists, you will not only persuade the reader that a problem exists, but then go on to emphasize the consequences of ignoring or addressing the problem.   Remember, your problem statement is the backbone of the proposal and the feasibility report. By giving careful consideration to how you construct it (for the proposal), you can use it when doing your research and writing for the proposal as well as the progress and the feasibility report.

(DESCRIPTION OF THE IDEAL SCENARIO) STATEMENT 1  (DESCRIPTION OF THE IDEAL SCENARIO) Describe the goals, desired state, or the values that your audience considers important and that are relevant to the problem.   (BUT) Connect statements 1 and 2 using a term such as "but," "however,“ "Unfortunately," or "in spite of"; Example STATEMENT 1 In order to provide excellent patient care at a minimal cost, Middletown Hospital needs diagnostic procedures that are safe, efficient, and accurate. In addition, the procedures should not be overly painful for the patient.

(THE REALITY OF THE SITUATION) STATEMENT 2  (THE REALITY OF THE SITUATION) Describe a condition that prevents the goal, state, or value discussed in statement 1 from being achieved or realized at the present time. Example STATEMENT 2 Right now, Middletown Hospital's main diagnostic tools are CAT scans and myelograms (spinal taps). The CAT scan fails to make clear diagnoses 60% of the time. When the CAT scan fails, doctors must resort to the myelogram. While the myelograms are accurate, this procedure is very painful and sometimes dangerous for the patient.

(THE CONSEQUENCES FOR THE AUDIENCE) STATEMENT 3  (THE CONSEQUENCES FOR THE AUDIENCE) Using specific details, show how the situation in statement 2 contains little promise of improvement unless something is done.  Then emphasize the benefits of research by projecting the consequences of possible solutions as well. Example STATEMENT 3 If Middletown Hospital continues to do the two procedures, they will not only be wasting time and money, which jeopardizes their overall efficiency and earning potential. Also, undue suffering could lead patients to choose another hospital with more advanced facilities.

RESEARCH  (YOUR PROPOSED RESEARCH TO INVESTIGATE THE POSSIBILITY OF MAKING THE REALITY MORE LIKE THE IDEAL.) Describe the areas of inquiry you will use that could lead to solutions to the problem--- how will you research the problem? What sources of information, types of research (primary or secondary),or tools will you use to help you find solutions and make recommendations to resolve the clash? Example RESEARCH A new diagnostic technique, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) may surpass the CAT scan in accuracy and reduce the need to resort to the myelogram.  I propose to research the feasibility of establishing an NMR lab at Middletown hospital. I will investigate the accuracy, efficiency, and safety of NMR as well as implementation issues.

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Research Problem Topic Background Demonstrate Ethical Standards Start References Problem Statement ROs & RQs Defend Proposal End Operational Definitions Prepare Report Conceptual Framework Research Tools Review Literature Research Design Ahmad Othman @2006

How to Write a Research Question What is a research question? A research question is a clear, focused, concise, complex and arguable question around which you centre your research. You should ask a question about an issue that you are genuinely curious about. Why is a research question essential to the research process? Research questions help writers focus their research by providing a path through the research and writing process. The specificity of a well-developed research question helps writers avoid the “all-about” paper and work toward supporting a specific, arguable thesis. 

Steps to developing a research question: Is your research question clear?  Research questions must be as clear as possible in  order to be effective in helping the writer direct his or her research. Is your research question focused?  Research questions must be specific enough to be well covered in the space available. Is your research question complex?  Research questions should not be answerable with a simple “yes” or “no” or by easily-found facts.  They should, instead, require both research and analysis on the part of the writer.

Sample Research Questions Unclear: Why are social networking sites harmful? Clear:  How are online users experiencing or addressing privacy issues on such social networking sites as MySpace and Facebook? The unclear version of this question doesn’t specify which social networking sites or suggest what kind of harm the sites are causing. It also assumes that this “harm” is proven and/or accepted. The clearer version specifies sites (MySpace and Facebook), the type of harm (privacy issues), and who the issue is harming (users). A strong research question should never leave room for ambiguity or interpretation.

Unfocused: What is the effect on the environment from global warming? Focused:  How is glacial melting affecting penguins in Antarctica?  The unfocused research question is so broad that it couldn’t be adequately answered in a book-length piece. The focused version narrows down to a specific cause (glacial melting), a specific place (Antarctica), and a specific group that is affected (penguins). When in doubt, make a research question as narrow and focused as possible.

Too simple: How are doctors addressing diabetes in the U.S.? Appropriately Complex:  What are common traits of those suffering from diabetes in America, and how can these commonalities be used to aid the medical community in prevention of the disease? The simple version of this question can be looked up online and answered in a few factual sentences; it leaves no room for analysis. The more complex version is written in two parts; it is thought provoking and requires both significant investigation and evaluation from the writer. As a general rule of thumb, if a quick Google search can answer a research question, it’s likely not very effective.

Research Problem Topic Background Demonstrate Ethical Standards Start References Problem Statement ROs & RQs Defend Proposal End Operational Definitions Prepare Report Conceptual Framework Research Tools Review Literature Research Design Ahmad Othman @2006

Operational Definition An operational definition is a statement that describes how a particular variable is to be measured, or It can be a demonstration of a process - such as a variable, term, or object - relative in terms of the specific process or set of validation tests used to determine its presence and quantity.  Operational definitions need to be clear and precise so that a reader knows exactly what to observe or measure.

Examples Example 1: Lemon juice, vinegar, and certain other substances are acids. To find out whether a substance is an acid, place a drop of the substance on blue litmus paper. Operational definition: Substances that cause the litmus paper to turn pink are acids. Example 2:To measure a person’s pulse, place your index and middle fingers lightly on the inside of the person’s wrist and find the beating artery. Operational definition: The pulse is the number of beats counted in 1 minute. Example 3:You have to classify vertebrates as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, or mammals. Operational definition: A bird is an animal that has two feet, a pair of wings, and feathers. Example 4:You have to determine the relative ages of layers of sedimentary rock. Operational definition: In sedimentary rock that has not been disturbed, the oldest rock is the bottom layer area, and the youngest rock is the top layer.

Tips for Writing Operational Definitions Look over the written plan for carrying out an investigation, or write up a plan. Identify and list any variables or terms that do not have a single, clear, obvious meaning. If there are several reasonable ways to make an observation or to perform an action, choose one that suits the purpose of the investigation. Write a clear, complete definition of what the researcher should do or measure. Check your definition by asking yourself, Will this definition tell another person what to observe or how to measure?

Research Problem Topic Background Demonstrate Ethical Standards Start References Problem Statement ROs & RQs Defend Proposal End Operational Definitions Prepare Report Conceptual Framework Research Tools Review Literature Research Design

Conceptual Frameworks A conceptual framework is used in research to outline possible courses of action or to present a preferred approach to an idea or thought. Conceptual frameworks (theoretical frameworks) are a type of intermediate theory that attempt to connect to all aspects of inquiry (e.g., problem definition, purpose, literature review, methodology, data collection and analysis). Conceptual frameworks can act like maps that give coherence to empirical inquiry. Because conceptual frameworks are potentially so close to empirical inquiry, they take different forms depending upon the research question or problem.

PLANNED BEHAVIOR MODEL Samples PLANNED BEHAVIOR MODEL

Samples MODEL OF TRUST

Samples SERVICE QUALITY MODEL

Samples MODEL OF QUALITY

CHILD DEVELOPMENT MODEL Samples CHILD DEVELOPMENT MODEL

Research Problem Topic Background Demonstrate Ethical Standards Start References Problem Statement ROs & RQs Defend Proposal End Operational Definitions Prepare Report Conceptual Framework Research Tools Review Literature Research Design

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First Review of the Literature Helps the researcher to: Structure research on work already done Develop problem statement with precision and clarity Is beneficial in both basic and applied research projects

A good problem statement Research objective: why of the research Research objective applied research: to solve a specific problem in a work setting; to change something. Example: To determine factors that increase employee commitment to the organization; Allows manager to increase commitment and hence to decrease turnover, absenteeism and increase performance levels.

Example The purpose of this study is twofold: to identify the factors that influence the passenger’s waiting experience and to investigate the possible impact of waiting on customer satisfaction and service evaluations.

A good problem statement Research questions: what of the research (what do you want to learn?) Translates problem into a specific need for information Are related to the objective If objective is unclear we will not be able to formulate research questions Example: What are the factors that affect the perceived waiting experience of airline passengers To what extent do these factors affect the perception of waiting times? What are the affective consequences of waiting How does affect mediate the relationship between waiting and service evaluations? How do situational variables (such as filled time) influence customer reactions to the waiting experience?

Good problem statement Relevant for the organization Feasible you are able to answer the research questions within the restrictions of the research project. Interesting to you!

© 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. www.wiley.com/college/sekaran The research proposal The research proposal drawn up by the investigator is the result of a planned, organized, and careful effort. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. www.wiley.com/college/sekaran

Research Proposal contains (1) Working title. Background of the study. The problem statement. - The purpose of the study. - Research questions. The scope of the study. The relevance of the study.

Research Proposal contains (2) The research design offering details on: a. Type of study b. Data collection methods c. The sampling design. d. Data analysis. Time frame of the study Budget Selected bibliography.

The Critical literature review Chapter 4 The Critical literature review 54

Critical Literature Review A literature review is “the selection of available documents (both published and unpublished) on the topic, which contain information, ideas, data and evidence written from a particular standpoint to fulfill certain aims or express certain views on the nature of the topic and how it is to be investigated, and the effective evaluation of these documents in relation to the research being proposed” (Hart, 1998, p. 13).

Functions Literature Review Research builds on existing knowledge One does “reinvent the wheel” Look at a problem from a specific angle Find out what variables are important to consider Introduce relevant terminology/provide definitions Provide arguments for the relationships variables Testability and replicability are enhanced. Research findings are related to findings of others.

Data sources Textbooks Academic and professional journals Theses Conference proceedings Unpublished manuscripts Reports of government departments and corporations Newspapers The Internet

Searching for literature Most libraries have the following electronic resources at their disposal: Electronic journals Full-text databases Bibliographic databases Abstract databases

Evaluating the literature Titles Abstract Table of contents/first chapter book Number of citations

Documenting the Literature Review Literature review introduces Subject study Highlights the problem Summarizes work done so far