UNIT-I

Meaning of Research: Research in common mans language refers to search

for knowledge. Research is simply the process of finding solution to a problem
after a complete study and analysis of the situational factors. In short, the search
for knowledge through objective and systematic method of finding solution to a
problem is research. Research is required because of the following reasons:
1) To identify and find solutions to the problems 2) To help making decisions
3) To develop new concepts 4) to find alternate strategies

Meaning of Business Research: Business research can be described as a

systematic and organized effort to investigate a specific problem that needs a
solution. More specifically, it is a process of planning, acquiring and analyzing
relevant data arid information. We can define business research as an organized,
systematic, data-based, critical, objective, scientific problem undertaken with the
purpose of finding answers to it. In fact, research provides the needed
information that guides managers to make decisions. They can deal,
successfully, with problems.
By Redman and Moy, Business research is a systematized effort to gain new
knowledge.

Nature of Research: The nature of research are as follows:

(1) Objective & Logical: Research strives to be objective and logical, applying
every possible test to validate the procedure employed, the data collected and
the conclusion reached.
(2) Future Occurrence: Research emphasizes the development of
generalization, principles of theories that will be helpful in predicting future
occurrences.
(3) Courage: Research sometimes requires courage
(4) Solve the Problem: Research is directed towards the solution of a
problem. It may attempt to answer a question to determine the relation between
two or more variables.
(5) Experiences: Research is based upon observable experience
(6) Recording and reporting: Research is carefully recorded and reported.
(7) Expertise: Research requires expertise; the researcher knows what is
already known about the problem and how others have investigated it.
(8) Collection of Data: Research involves gathering new data from primary
sources or using existing data for new purpose.
(9) Research demands accurate descriptions.

Objectives of Research: following categories of objectives of research:

(1) To investigate a Subject: Research is undertaken in a specific field of
knowledge. It may be pure science or social science; one may be interested in
verifying a fact or principle in any discipline of his choice. For that matter, every
discipline is a body of knowledge. An activity undertaken to verify or revise these
facts or principles becomes research.
(2) To collect the data regarding a problem: Research gathers new
knowledge or data from primary or first-hand sources. Research endeavors to

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research the first hand source of data instead of serving its purpose with the
data available from second hand sources.
(3) To conduct logical and objective study: Research is logical and objective,
applying every possible test to verify the data collected and the procedure
employed. The researcher eliminates personal feelings and preferences from his
research activity. He works with in the scope and relevance of his data.
(4) To conduct a systematic inquiry of the subject: Research is said to be a
careful and systematic inquiry. It means that research is a scientific study of
facts.
(5) For carefully recording, reporting and presenting the facts: Research
is carefully recorded and reported. Every term is carefully defined, all procedures
are described in details, all limiting factors are recognized, all references are
carefully documented and all results are objectively recorded.

Types of Research: On the basis of the objectives of the research, we can

classify research into following types:
(1) Applied Vs. Fundamental Research: Research can either be applied or
fundamental. Applied research aims at finding a solution for an immediate
problem facing a society or an industrial/business organization, whereas
fundamental research is mainly concerned with generalizations and with the
formulation of a theory.
(2) Descriptive vs. Analytical Research: Descriptive research includes
surveys and fact finding enquiries of different kinds. The major purpose of
descriptive research is description of the state of affairs as it exists at present.
The main characteristics of this method are that the researcher has no control
over the variable; he can only report what has happened or what is happening.
Most ex-post facto research projects are used for descriptive studies in which the
researcher seeks to measure such items:
Frequency of Shopping
Preference of people etc.
In analytical research, the researcher has to use facts or information already
available and analyses these to make a critical evaluation of the material.
(3) Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research: Quantitative research is based on
the measurement of quantity or amount. It is applicable to phenomena that can
be expressed in terms of quantity. It is research methodology that seeks to
quantity the data and typically applies some form of statistical analysis.
Quantitative research is structured in nature and recommends a final course of
action. Qualitative research, on the other hand, is concerned with qualitative
phenomenon. Qualitative research is important in the behavioural sciences
where the aim is to discover the underlying motives of human behaviour.
Through such research we can analyse the various factors which motivate people
to behave in a particular manner or which make people like or dislike a particular
thing.
(4) Conceptual vs. Empirical Research: Conceptual research is related to
some abstract ideas of theory. It is generally used by philosophers and thinkers
to develop new concepts. On the other hand, empirical research relies on
experience or observation alone, often without due regard for system and theory.

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It is data based research, coming up with conclusions which are capable of being
verified by observation or experiment. We can also call it an experimental type of
research.
(5) Historical Research: Any research which makes use of observations based
on past events is known as historical approach.
Research Process: Research process can be explained with the help of
following diagram:
STEPS TASK TO BE
PERFORMED
1.Formulation of Identification of Research Problem.
Selection of Research Problem.
Research Problem
2.Review of Review of concepts & Theories
Review of previous Research Findings
Literature
3.Formulation of Discuss the Problem with colleagues
Examine the data & Reports
Hypothesis Developed tentative assumptions
4. Define concept to be used in the study
Construct Index
Operationalization Construct scale for measuring variables
of Operationalization of concept.
Concept
5. Preparation of The means of obtaining information.
The availability and splits of the researchers.
the Explanation of the ways in which selected
Research Means of obtaining information will be
Plan/Research organized.
Time Schedule
Design Cost of Scheme
6. Determine the Define Population
Determine Sample Size
Sample Choosing the sample Techniques
Design.
7. Construction of Observation
Personal Interview
the Telephone Interview
Tools for Data Questionnaire
Collection Schedule
8. Collection of Primary Source
Secondary Source
Data
9.Processing of Editing
Classification
Data Coding
Transcription or Decoding
Tabulation
10.Analysis of Percentage
Average
Data Time Series Analysis
Index Number Analysis
Use of other Statistical Tools

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11.Hypothesis chi-square Test
F-Test
Testing Z-Test
T-Test
12.Interpretation Draw meaning from the analysis.
Reach to the conclusion.
and See of the Conclusion are applicable
Generalization universally.
Make Generalization.
13.Report Writing The Preliminary Pages
Main Text
Or Dissertation Introduction
Main Reports
Summary & Findings
Conclusion

VARIABLES: Variable is anything that have varying values. The values can differ
at various times for the same object or person or at the same time for different
objects or persons. In practice, the term Variable is used as synonym for
construct or the object being studied.

Types of Variables: Four main types of variables are discussed as follow:

1. Dependent Variable: The dependent variable is the variable of primary interest
to the researcher. Researchers are most interested in relationships among
variables. Through the analysis of dependent variable (i.e., finding what variables
influence it), it is possible to find answers or solutions to the problem.
2. Independent Variable: An independent variable is one that affects the
dependent variable in either a positive or negative way. That is, when the
independent variable is present, the dependent variable is also present, and with
each unit of increase in independent variable, there is an increase or decrease in
the dependent variable also.
3. Moderating Variable: In each relationship (among variables) there is at least
one independent variable and a dependent variable. The moderating variable is
one that have a strong contingent effect on the independent variable.
4. Intervening variable: An Intervening variable is one that surfaces between the
time the Independent variables start operating to Influence the dependent
variable and the time their Impact Is felt on it.

Research and the Scientific Method: For a clear understanding of the term
research, one should know the meaning of scientific method. The two terms,
research and scientific method, are closely related. Research, as we have already
stated can be termed as enquiry into the nature of the reasons for and the
consequences of any particular set of circumstances. The scientific method is
pursuit of truth as determined by logical considerations. The main Characteristics
are:
1. Purposiveness: A manager has started the research with a definite aim or
purpose. For example, the aim of research is to increase the organisational
commitment of employees. The research thus has a purpose.
2. Rigor: Rigor refers to carefulness and exactness in research investigations. A
good theoretical framework (base) would add to rigor to purposive investigation.

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3. Testability: Hypothesis developed by researcher, can be tested by applying
certain statistical tests. Such as, a correlation analysis would indicate whether
the hypothesis is substantiated or not. The use of several other tests such as the
chi-square test and t-test can be used. Testability thus becomes another hallmark
of scientific research.
4. Replicability: The results of the tests of hypothesis should be the same if same
type of research is repeated in similar circumstances. By doing so, we will gain
confidence in the scientific research.
5. Precision and Confidence: precision refers to the findings of research that are
near to reality based on a sample. Confidence refers to the probability that our
estimates are correct.
6. Objectivity: Conclusions drawn through the data analysis should be objective,
that is, they should be based on the facts of the findings and not on our own
emotional values.
7. Generalizability: It refers to the scope of applicability of the research findings
in one Organisation to another Organisation.
Problem definition: it is a clear and precise statement of the questions
that are to be investigated Problem definitions may pertain to
1. Existing business problem that is to be solved by the manager
2. Situations (currently not creating problem) that have scope for improvement.
3. Areas where conceptual clarity is needed.
4. Situations in which researcher is trying to answer a research question.

Characteristics of Research Problem:

(1) A basic characteristic of a research problem is that it is researchable.
Researchable problem is first one that can be investigated through the collection
and analysis of data.
(2) A second major characteristic of a good problem is that it has theoretical or
practical significance.
(3) A third major characteristic of a good problem is that it is a good problem for
you.

Components of Research Problem:

(1) There must be an individual or a group which has some difficulty or the
problem.
(2) There must be some objectives to be attained at. If one wants nothing, one
cannot have a problem.
(3) There must be alternative means for obtaining the objectives one wishes to
attain. This means that there must be at least two means available to a
researcher for if he has no choice of means, he cannot have a problem.
(4) There must remain some doubt in the mind of a researcher with regard to the
selection of alternatives.
(5) There must be some environment to which the difficulty pertains.

Importance of Problem Definition:

Generally, we all hear that a problem clearly defined is a problem half solved.
This statement signifies the need for defining a research problem. Hence, the
problem to be investigated must be defined clearly. The significance of clearly
defined problem can be judged as under:

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1. A proper definition of research problem will enable the researcher to be in the
right direction whereas ill-defined problem may create hurdles.
2. A well-defined problem gives the answers to the questions like
(i) What data are to be collected?
(ii) Which techniques are to be used for the purpose?
(iii) What relations, among variables, are to be explored?
(iv) What kind of 5tudy is required?
3. A well detained problem provides basic for research design.
4. Problem definition facilitates research process.
5. A problem definition indicates a specific managerial decision area that will be
clarified by answering some research questions.
As a matter of fact, formulation of a problem (Problem defining) is more essential
than its solution.

REASEARCH PROBLEM PROCESS:

(1) Statement of the problem in a general way: First of all the

problem should be stated in a broad general way, keeping in view either
some practical concern or some scientific or intellectual interest. In case
of social research, it is considered advisable to do some field observation
and as such the researcher may undertake some sort of preliminary
survey. Then the researcher can himself state the problem.

(2) Understanding the nature of the problem: The next step in

defining the problem is to understand its origin and nature clearly. The
best way of understanding the problem is to discuss it with those who first
raised it in order to find out how the problem originally came about and
with what objectives in view.

(3) Surveying the available literature: All available literature

concerning the problem at hand must necessarily be surveyed and
examined before a definition of the research problem is given. This means
that the researcher must be well-conversant with relevant theories in the
field, reports and records as also all other relevant literature. This is done
to find out what data and other materials, if any, are available for
operational purposes.

(4) Developing the ideas through discussions: Discussions

concerning a problem often produces useful information. Various new
ideas can be developed through such an exercise. Hence, a researcher
must discuss his problem with his colleagues and others who have enough
experience in the same area or in working on similar problem. This is quite
often known as an experience survey.

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(5) Rephrasing the research problem: Finally, the researcher must sit
to rephrase the research problem into a working proposition. Once the
nature of the problem has been clearly understood, the environment has
been defined, discussion over the problem have taken place and the
available literature has been surveyed and examined, rephrase the
problem into analytical or operational terms is not a difficult task. Through
rephrasing, the researcher puts the research problem in as specific terms
as possible so that it may become operationally viable and may help in
the development of working hypotheses.

Exploratory Research:
Exploratory Research Studies are also termed as FORMULATIVE
RESEARCH Studies. The main purpose of such studies is that of
formulating a problem for more precise investigation or of developing the
working hypothesis from an operational point of view. The major emphasis
in such studies is on the discovery of ideas and insights. As such the
Research Design appropriate for such studies must be flexible enough to
provide opportunity for considering different aspects of a problem under
study. Inbuilt flexibility in Research design is needed because the research
problem, broadly defined initially, is transformed into one with more
precise meaning in exploratory studies, which fact may necessitate
changes in the research procedure for gathering relevant data.

Categories / Methods of Exploratory Research:

A manager may choose from four general categories of exploratory
research methods:
(1) Experience surveys
(2) Secondary data analysis
(3) Case studies
(4) Pilot studies.
Each category provides various alternative ways of gathering information.

I. Experience Surveys: In attempting to understand the problems at

hand, managers may discuss issues and ideas with top executive4and
knowledgeable managers who have had personal experience in the field.
This constitutes an informal experience survey. Exploratory research
during the situational analysis may be quite informal Discussions With
knowledgeable people, both inside and outside the company may not be

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much more than conversations. This activity, intended only to get ideas
about the problem, may lie conducted by the line manager rather than the
research department. Exploratory information from an experience survey,
is not expected to be conclusive. Often an experience survey consists of
interviews with a small number of experienced people who have been
carefully selected.

2. Secondary Data Analysis: Another economical and quick source

of background information is trade literature in the public library.
Searching through such material is exploratory research by means of
secondary data analysis. Basic theoretical research is rarely conducted
without extensive reviews of the literature in the field or similar research.
Using secondary may be equally important in applied research.
Once a situational analysis using secondary data or experience surveys
has been informally carried out, issues that still need clarification may
warrant further exploratory investigation beyond the gathering of
background information. At this point the research specialist is needed to
design more elaborate exploratory research.

3. Case Study Method: The purpose of the case study method is to

obtain Information from one or a few situations that are similar to the
researchers problem situation. The primary advantage of the case study
is that an entire organization or entity can be investigated in depth and
with meticulous attention to detail. This highly focused attention enables
the researchers to carefully study the order of events as they occur or to
concentrate on identifying the relationships among functions, individuals,
or entities. Like all exploratory research, the results from case analysis
should be seen as tentative. Generalizing from a few cases can be
dangerous because most situations are a typical in some sense.

4. Pilot Studies for Qualitative Analysis : The term pilot studies

cover a number of diverse research techniques. Within the context of
exploratory research, pilot study conveys the message that some aspect
of the research will be on a small scale. Thus a pilot study is a research
project that involves sampling, but the rigorous standards used to obtain
precise, quantitative estimates from large, representative samples are
relaxed.
A pilot study generates primary data, usually for quantitative analysis.
This characteristic distinguishes pilot studies from secondary data analysis
to gather background information. Some researchers refer to a pilot study
that generates qualitative information as qualitative research. The primary
data usually, are collected from employees, consumers, voters, or other
subjects of ultimate concern rather than from a few knowledgeable
experts or from a case situation.
The major categories of pilot studies include:
1. Focus group interviews

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2. Protective techniques
3. Depth interviews.