Business Research Method

4/14/2023 Assignment # 2

Farhan Amjad
Sap id: 70109244
Section: B
Part 1:

A literature review is important in writing a problem statement because it helps researchers to identify
gaps in current knowledge and to develop a research question that is relevant, feasible, and valuable. By
conducting a thorough review of existing literature, researchers can identify the strengths and weaknesses
of previous studies and build on existing knowledge to address new research questions.

Types of problem statement with examples

1. Existing Problem: Outfitters store is experiencing a decline in sales revenue. They

conduct research to identify the reasons behind the decline and potential solutions to
increase sales. The research might involve customer surveys and develop a marketing
strategy to increase sales.

2. Innovation: A car manufacturing company Honda decides to develop a new electric car
model to meet the needs of environmentally-conscious consumers and current high petrol
prices. They conduct research to identify the needs and preferences of customers and test
different car designs.

3. Conceptualization: Carrefour Pakistan wants to identify potential changes in consumer

behavior and preferences that might impact its sales in the future. They conduct research
to identify emerging trends in consumer behavior and preferences, such as a preference
for online shopping or demand for sustainable products. Based on this research, the retail
chain develops strategies to adapt and stay competitive.

Part 2:

Here is an example from Human Resource Management: In a study examining the relationship
between employee job satisfaction and employee turnover, job satisfaction would be the
independent variable, while employee turnover would be the dependent variable. The study
would hypothesize that higher levels of job satisfaction would lead to lower rates of employee
turnover.

However, the same variable can be independent in one research model and dependent in another,
depending on the research question and study design. For example, in a study examining the
relationship between employee job satisfaction and organizational commitment, job satisfaction
would be the independent variable, while organizational commitment would be the dependent
variable. The study would hypothesize that higher levels of job satisfaction would lead to higher
levels of organizational commitment.

In conclusion, the choice of independent and dependent variables in a research model depends on
the research question. A variable can be independent in one research model and dependent in
another, depending on the research question being asked.