1. Understanding the Report Process and Research Methods
Chapter 9
Understanding the Report Process and Research Methods

2. Learning Objectives
1. Identify the characteristics of a report and the various classifications of business reports.
2. Apply steps in the problem-solving process and methods for solving a problem.
3. Use appropriate printed, electronic, and primary sources of information.
4. Demonstrate appropriate methods of collecting, organizing, and referencing information.
5. Explain techniques for the logical analysis and interpretation of data.

3. Formal-Informal Report Continuum

4. The Problem-Solving Process1
Recognize and define the problem 2
Select a method of solution 3
Collect and organize data and document sources 4
Arrive at an answer

5. Questions for Limiting the Problem
is it that I wish to find out?
What
is the information needed?
Why
must the report be completed?
When
is the study limited?
Where
will read and use the information?
Who

6. Conducting Research Primary research Formal System Secondary research
relies on firsthand data and obtains information from experiments, selected individuals, or observations
compiles information that other experts have already created
Primary research
Formal System
Informal System
Secondary research

7. Types of Sources Primary Sources Secondary Sources Customer surveys
Market research
Operational research
Historical research
Performance observation
Product development
Financial reports
Employee surveys
Secondary Sources
Newspapers
Magazines
Journals
Abstracts
Almanacs/fact books
Books
Government documents
Online resources

8. Objectives of Secondary Research
Establish point of _________ for further research
Avoid needless __________ of costly research effort
______ areas of needed research
Make a real ___________ to body of knowledge
departure
duplication
Reveal
contribution

9. Common Errors in Data Collection
Samples that are too small
Samples that are not representative
Poorly constructed data-gathering instruments
Information that comes from biased sources
Too little information
Too much information that is not relevant

10. Reasons for Accurate, Complete Documentation
Gives credit where credit is due (highly ethical conduct)
Protects writers against plagiarism charges
Supports statements and thus increases credibility
Aids researchers in pursuing similar research

11. Common Errors in Data Interpretation
Conforming results to prediction or desire
Hoping for spectacular results
Comparing when commonality is absent
Assuming a cause-and-effect relationship when one does not exist
Failing to consider important factors
Basing conclusions on lack of evidence
Assuming constancy of behavior