At the end of the discussion you should be able to:
Learning 1. Explain why proper problem definition is
important in research Objectives 2. Identify the components of a properly defined research problem 3. Develop a Research Question / Problem Statement A problem well defined is half solved
“The formulation of the problem is
often more essential than its solution.” IMPORTAN (Albert Einstein) CE OF How the problem is framed determines PROBLEM what solution is obtained DEFINITIO N The research problem drives subsequent stages of the research process Proper problem definition ensures that the research results will meet decision maker’s objectives Defining A research problem can be defined as a gap or uncertainty in the decision makers’
the existing body of knowledge which
hinders efficient decision making. The gap could be academic & theoretical research (basic) or real time and action oriented (applied). problem Problem identification process Management Decision Problem
Discussions Review of Organization Qualitative
with subject existing Analysis analysis experts literature
Management Research Problem / Question
Research framework / Analytical model
Statement of Research Objectives
Formulation of Research Hypothesis
Management decision problem: the issue/decision that needs to be resolved through research
Discussion with experts: to get the
right perspective on the issue, Problem discussion/dialogue is held with subject/industry expert. identification Review of literature: the most valuable process source of framing the research question is to review the past work done on related topic(s). Qualitative surveys: primary exploratory loosely structured surveys to attain the environmental context. LITERATURE REVIEW Elements of a research problem ■ Unit of analysis
■ Variables
■ Research Question(s) Determine Unit of Analysis
■ Unit of Analysis – The target population from
whom data needs to be collected to serve the research objectives ■ These could be: – Individuals (maybe even further classified by demographics, geographic location, etc) – Households – Organizational customers (e.g. retailers, wholesalers) – Competitors – Others ■ Sometimes a single research problem may require investigation at one or more levels of analysis Determine Relevant Variables
■ Variable - Anything that may assume different values
among members of the target population, e.g. age, level of satisfaction, etc
■ Research questions could be in the form of a question or a statement
■ Research Questions – Questions for which the research is designed to provide answers – The researcher’s translation of the managerial problem into a specific inquiry – Provides direction to the entire activity.
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