There is no doubt that research is a systematic process. Although different models of research process exist, each containing different numbers of stages, most include the same general elements (Gratton & Jones, 2009). The research process outlined below is a generalized way of carrying out research: Define the problem Specify the objectives Literature review Research Design Methods Sample Timing Costs Data collection and analysis Present findings and conclusion Define the Problem The research process begins with identifying and defining the problems facing the researcher. In fact, there may be.
There is no doubt that research is a systematic process. Although different models of research process exist, each containing different numbers of stages, most include the same general elements (Gratton & Jones, 2009). The research process outlined below is a generalized way of carrying out research:
Define the problem
Specify the objectives
Literature review
Research Design
Methods
Sample
Timing
Costs
Data collection and analysis
Present findings and conclusion
Define the Problem
The research process begins with identifying and defining the problems facing the researcher. In fact, there may be many problems as to why an individual/organisation would carry out research e.g. loss of market share, increase in online business, high staff turnover and many more.
Specify the Objectives
Once the problem is identified and defined, the next step for the researcher is to specify some objectives. Usually, three to five objectives are set for each research project. And these objectives are set depending on the problems identified in the preceding stage. For example, the researcher’s objectives may be to identify the reasons why a company loses market share. It may also be to find out what can be done to reduce loss of market share
Literature Review
The researcher needs to review relevant literature in order to understand the research problem thoroughly. A literature review is a select analysis of existing research which is relevant to the topic the researcher has selected, showing how it relates to his/her investigation. It explains and justifies how the investigation may help answer some of the questions or gaps in the area of research (University of Reading, 2015).
Research Design
In this stage, the researcher needs to focus on a number of things. For example, the philosophy, approach, methods, and instruments for the research will be decided in this stage. Sampling strategy, timing and cost of the research are also finalised in this stage. It is very important that the researcher understands those concepts very clearly as they impact on the research project significantly.
Data collection and analysis
Data needs to be collected in a systematic way. Indeed, the researcher will use different types of research instruments e.g. questionnaire, interviews, focus groups and so forth to collect data depending on the type of research method chosen. Once the data is collected, analysis needs to be conducted in order to obtain information from the data. Analysis can be done manually and/or with the help of specialist software.
Present findings and conclusion
Once the analysis is done, the findings of the research should be presented in an organised manner. If the research is conducted on behalf of a company, the findings need to be presented to the decision makers of the business. The findings need to be readily accessible and understandable to the decision makers for the purpose of decision-making.
