Business Research Methods chapter 2
The research task is usually described as a sequential process that involves several clearly defined
steps. However it does not necessarily require that each step is completed before going on to the
next one. The exhibit below illustrates the sequence(volgorde) of the research process.
The research process usually begins as follows. A research dilemma triggers the need for
investigating how the dilemma can be solved. A growing number of customer complaints for
example. Such things cause managers to reconsider their purpose or objectives, and researchers to
question existing theories, define a problem that requires solution or develop strategies for solutions
they have already identified. A useful way to approach the research process is to state the basic
dilemma that prompts the research and then try to develop other questions. This is done by
progressively breaking down the original question into more specific questions. Thinks of the
outcome of this process as the management research question hierarchy. The exhibit below offers
examples of the kinds of question asked at each level.
1. Management/research dilemma
The process begins at the most general level with a management/research dilemma, which is usually
a symptom of an actual problem. The dilemma might be:
Rising costs;
The discovery of an expensive chemical compound that would increase the efficacy of a drug;
Increasing numbers if tenants vacating an apartment complex.
Declining sales.
It is rarely difficult to identify management/research dilemmas. The difficulty may lie in choosing one
dilemma on which to focus.
The research task is usually described as a sequential process that involves several clearly defined
steps. However it does not necessarily require that each step is completed before going on to the
next one. The exhibit below illustrates the sequence(volgorde) of the research process.
The research process usually begins as follows. A research dilemma triggers the need for
investigating how the dilemma can be solved. A growing number of customer complaints for
example. Such things cause managers to reconsider their purpose or objectives, and researchers to
question existing theories, define a problem that requires solution or develop strategies for solutions
they have already identified. A useful way to approach the research process is to state the basic
dilemma that prompts the research and then try to develop other questions. This is done by
progressively breaking down the original question into more specific questions. Thinks of the
outcome of this process as the management research question hierarchy. The exhibit below offers
examples of the kinds of question asked at each level.
1. Management/research dilemma
The process begins at the most general level with a management/research dilemma, which is usually
a symptom of an actual problem. The dilemma might be:
Rising costs;
The discovery of an expensive chemical compound that would increase the efficacy of a drug;
Increasing numbers if tenants vacating an apartment complex.
Declining sales.
It is rarely difficult to identify management/research dilemmas. The difficulty may lie in choosing one
dilemma on which to focus.
