1. Chapter 9 Understanding the Report Process and Research Models
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

2. The Formal-Informal Report Continuum
Chapter 9
The Formal-Informal Report Continuum
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

3. The Problem Solving Process
Chapter 9
The Problem Solving Process
I. Recognize and define the problem
II. Select a method of solution
A. Library research
B. Normative survey
C. Observational analysis
D. Experimentation
III. Gather and analyze the findings
IV. Arrive at an answer (conclusion)
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

4. Clear Problem Identification Aids in Targeting Research
Chapter 9
Clear Problem Identification Aids in Targeting Research
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

5. Five Questions for Limiting the Problem
Chapter 9
Five Questions for Limiting the Problem
What is it that I wish to find out?
Why is the information needed?
When must the report be completed?
Where is the study limited to?
Who will read and use the information?
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

6. Limitations to Internet Research
Chapter 9
Limitations to Internet Research
Information is not always accurate, current, or complete
Information may be shared illegally
Information may not be subjected to a rigorous review process that typically takes place with printed sources
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

7. Rules for Using the Internet Effectively
Chapter 9
Rules for Using the Internet Effectively
Choose your search engine appropriately
Structure searches from broad to specific using Boolean logic
Use quotation marks when literal topics are desired
Look for web pages with hyperlinks to other web sites
Be adaptable to various access formats
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

8. Reasons for Accurate, Complete Documentation
Chapter 9
Reasons for Accurate, Complete Documentation
Gives credit where credit is due (highly ethical conduct)
Protects writers against charges of plagiarism
Supports statements and thus increases credibility
Aids researchers in pursuing similar research
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

9. Guidelines for Designing Effective Questionnaires
Chapter 9
Guidelines for Designing Effective Questionnaires
Arrange items in a logical sequence
Ask for facts that can be recalled readily
Write clear, specific questions
Brief, easy-to-follow directions
Words with precise meanings
Short items related to one idea
No “skip-and-jump” instructions
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

10. Guidelines for Designing Effective Questionnaires (cont.)
Chapter 9
Guidelines for Designing Effective Questionnaires (cont.)
Create an appealing format that is easy-to-answer and tabulate
Do not force respondents to choose an answer that does not apply to them
Provide all possible answers
Add “undecided” or “other” category
Avoid leading questions
Pilot test the questionnaire and revise based on feedback
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

11. Common Errors in Data Collection
Chapter 9
Common Errors in Data Collection
Using samples that are too small
Using samples that are not representative
Using poorly constructed data-gathering instruments
Using information that comes from biased sources
Failing to gather enough information
Gathering too much information and using all of it regardless of relevance
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning

12. Common Errors in Data Interpretation
Chapter 9
Common Errors in Data Interpretation
Trying to make results conform to prediction or desire
Hoping for spectacular results
Attempting to compare when commonality is absent
Assuming a cause-and-effect relationship when one does not exist
Failing to consider important factors
Basing a conclusion on lack of evidence
Assuming constancy of behavior
Business Communication, Anniversary Edition Lehman and DuFrene 2002 South-Western/Thomson Learning