BMT6113 - Business Research Methods

Module:2 - Research design classification

Exploratory, Descriptive and Causal -

Experimental Research Design Methods -
Qualitative Research Designs, tools and its
techniques of data collection – Observation
Method
Types of Research Design
 What is Research Design?
At the start of the research, a researcher usually chooses the
techniques and methodologies they will use for the research process.
The framework of research techniques and tools is called research
design. It is imperative to have a well-designed and structured
research design to ensure the research reaches its goal.

Interestingly, experts define research design as the glue that holds the
research project together. Moreover, they exclaim that the right
research design helps provide a structure and direction to the
research that yields favourable results. Also believed to be the
blueprint of the research, a research design has several elements,
which we will be discussing in the next part of the article.
What Are the Main Elements of Research Design?
❑ Purpose statement
❑ Data collection methods
❑ Techniques of research data analysis
❑ Types of research methodologies
❑ Challenges of the research
❑ Prerequisites required for research study
❑ The right time for the research study
❑ Measurement of analysis
Types of Research Design
Exploratory research is a methodology approach that investigates research questions
that have not previously been studied in depth. Exploratory research is often qualitative
in nature. However, a study with a large sample conducted in an exploratory manner can be
quantitative as well.

As the term suggests, conclusive research is meant to provide information that is useful
in reaching conclusions or decision-making. It tends to be quantitative in nature, that is
to say in the form of numbers that can be quantified and summarized.

Descriptive research aims to accurately and systematically describe a population,

situation or phenomenon. It can answer what, where, when and how questions, but not
why questions. A descriptive research design can use a wide variety of research methods to
investigate one or more variables.

Causal Research is a type of conclusive research, which attempts to establish a

cause-and-effect relationship between two or more variables. Causal Research is
widely employed by several companies. It assists in determining the impact. of a change in
process and existing methods.

Cross-sectional study design is a type of observational study design. In a cross-sectional

study, the investigator measures the outcome and the exposures in the study participants at
the same time.

In a longitudinal study, researchers repeatedly examine the same individuals to detect

any changes that might occur over a period of time. Longitudinal studies are a type of
correlational research in which researchers observe and collect data on a number of
variables without trying to influence those variables.
Data Collection Tool