BUSINESS RESEARCH
Business research can be described as a systematic and organized effort to invest-
tailgate a specific problem encountered in the work setting, that needs a solution.
It comprises a series of steps designed and executed, with the goal of Finding
answers to the issues that are of concern to the manager in the work environ-
ment. This means that the first step in research is to know where the problem
areas exist in the organization, and to identify as clearly and specifically as pos-
sible the problems that need to be studied and resolved. Once the problem that
needs attention is clearly defined, then steps can be taken to gather information,
analyze the data, and determine the factors that are associated with the problem
and solve it by taking the necessary corrective measures.
This entire process by which we attempt to solve problems is called research.
Thus, research involves a series of Well-thought-out and carefully executed activ-
ities that will enable the manager to know how organizational problems can be
solved, or at least considerably minimized. Research thus encompasses the
processes of inquiry, investigation, examination, and experimentation, These
processes have to be carried out systematically, diligently, critically, objectively,
and logically. The expected end results would be the discovery that will help the
manager to deal with the problem situation,
The difference between the manager who uses common sense alone to ana-
lyze and make a decision in a given situation, and the investigator who uses a
scientific method, is that the latter does a systematic inquiry into the matter and
proceeds to describe, explain, or predict phenomena based on data carefully coi-
lected for the purpose.
Preface
Revising Research Metbodsfor Business for this fourth edition has been an enjoy-
able experience. As in previous editions, the simple and informal style of pre-
setting information has been maintained and the focus 'on practical skill building
preserved. The book provides several examples to illustrate the concepts and
points presented. Users Will also note throughout the book the variety of exam-
pales in the different areas of business-production, operations management,
business policy and strategy, organizational behavior, human resources manage-
meant, information systems, marketing, accounting, and finance-cited to illus-
trite that research finds application in all areas of business. It is hoped that
students will Hand research to be interesting, no intimidating, and of practical use.
In addition to the inclusion of more mini exercises at the end of chapters from
cases adapted from business journals, the chapter on technology has been sub-
statically revised to keep in line with the changing trends. The application of
software for 'collecting data, analyzing them, and presenting the results is also
discussed in the relevant chapters. The final chapter on managerial decision
making anal research elucidates the research cycle as encompassing the full
gamut from qualitative data analysis to quantitative hypothesis testing empirical
studies. An additional case is presented to emphasize the need for research by
exemplifying a company’s failure due to lack of investigation.
Data analysis is illustrated through the current SPSS Version 11.0 in the data
analysis chapter and the student version thereof is available with this edition of
the book for the interested student.
Most chapters in the book include managerial implications of the contents dis-
cussed, emphasizing the need for managers to understand research. The biblical
considerations involved in conducting research are also clearly brought out. The
dynamics of cross-malarial research in terms of instrument development, surveys,
and sampling are discussed, which in the context of today’s global economy will
be useful to students. The final chapter of the book discusses tvvo case studies,
one set in a cross-cultural context further highlighting the need to be culture-sen-
sativa, and the other illustrating how, for lack of research intervention, an orga-
negation can be obliterated.
The Refresher Module on Statistical Terms and Tests at the end of the book
should help instructors to assign the material to students when they are ready to
do so. It is presented in a simple way without discussing derivation of formulas.
so that the student has enough knowledge to conduct research applying appro-
priate statistical tests. '
