NEPAL OPEN UNIVERSITY

Lalitpur Nepal

MGGRM 691: Research Methods

Submitted By: Submitted To:

Mr.Yam Baral Dr. Jeetendra Dangol

Roll No 78342032

24th Jan 2024

COVID-19 Pandemic and its Impact on Restaurants in Thamel, Street
-1 Kathmandu

Research Methods:

Research methodology serves as a valuable technique that streamlines the study by

facilitating the gathering of information. The significance of a proper and scientific
methodology cannot be overstated in ensuring the success of a study, as it plays a pivotal role
in enabling the collection of comprehensive data, facts, figures, and statistics through diverse
research methods. A robust research methodology establishes an overarching plan for the
study, encompassing a spectrum of activities such as publication research, interviews,
surveys, and other research methods. It has the flexibility to incorporate both present and
historical information, providing a foundational framework upon which the entire study rests.
Prior to delving into the analysis and interpretation of data, it is imperative to
comprehensively describe the chosen research methodology. The complete research design
serves as the trajectory inward, guiding the clarification of problems through a thoughtful and
methodical approach to the collection, analysis, and interpretation of facts and figures. The
success of a systematic research study hinges on adopting an appropriate approach that aligns
with the predetermined objectives.

This assignment serves as a cornerstone, furnishing a fundamental framework for the

execution of the research. It intricately describes the overall strategy employed in the
research, encompassing elements such as research design, decisions related to population and
sample size, details about the nature and sources of data, information about the instruments
employed, considerations of validity and reliability, and the chosen data analysis technique,
model, and formula. The thorough exploration of these components ensures a comprehensive
and rigorous research process, contributing to the overall integrity and reliability of the study.

Research Design:

The mixed-methods design employed in this study aimed to provide a comprehensive and
nuanced exploration of the multifaceted impact on restaurants. By incorporating both
quantitative and qualitative methods, the research aimed to capture a holistic view of the
situation, considering various dimensions and aspects related to the challenges and
adaptations within the restaurant industry.
On The quantitative side, the study assessed tangible and measurable factors such as the
financial impact on restaurants, including changes in revenue and profit margins. By
analyzing these quantitative metrics, the research sought to quantify the extent to which
restaurants were affected economically. Operational challenges, such as the duration of
closures and staffing issues, were also examined quantitatively, offering insights into the
practical difficulties faced by establishments.

On The qualitative component of the study delved into the more nuanced aspects of the
impact on restaurants. Changes in customer behavior, a crucial aspect of the industry's
adaptation, were explored qualitatively. This involved understanding shifts in consumer
preferences, such as the increased reliance on online orders and alterations in the frequency
of in-person visits. Through qualitative methods, the study aimed to capture the underlying
motivations and attitudes shaping these behavioral changes. The research investigated the
adaptation strategies implemented by restaurants in response to the challenges posed. This
qualitative exploration sought to uncover the innovative measures and changes in business
practices adopted by establishments to navigate the evolving landscape successfully.

By combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches, the mixed-methods design not
only allowed for a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted impact on restaurants but
also facilitated a more robust and triangulated interpretation of the findings. This approach
acknowledges the complexity of the research questions and enhances the validity and
reliability of the study's outcomes. In essence, the research design served as a strategic
framework that ensured a systematic and thorough exploration of the research objectives,
contributing to the overall rigor and credibility of the study.

Population and Sample Size:

The term "population" in research refers to the entire group of people or things that a
researcher is interested in studying, with the objective of drawing broader inferences. Due to
practical constraints, researchers often narrow their focus to a sample, which represents a
subset of the population. The size of this sample, referred to as sample size, is a critical
element of research design as it directly influences the generalization of study findings to the
larger population. Several factors come into play when determining the sample size,
including the research topic, population size, required precision level, and available
resources. A larger sample size typically enhances statistical power, enabling researchers to
detect real effects if they exist. However, the process of obtaining and analyzing a larger
sample is more resource-intensive and can present challenges.

In the specific context of this research, the study hones in on Thamel Street 1, featuring a
population of 100 restaurants. Quantitative methods, such as surveys, aim for a sample
coverage of 40-45%, translating to a target sample size of 40 respondents. Adjustments can
be made based on the desired confidence level and margin of error.

For qualitative methods, like interviews, the initial plan involves conducting 6-10 interviews
and adding more until reaching saturation—where new information ceases to emerge. Given
the smaller population and potentially closer-knit community on a single street, saturation
may be achieved with even fewer participants. The final qualitative sample aims to include 8
participants.

This research design adopts a well-balanced approach, incorporating both quantitative and
qualitative methods with appropriately sized samples for each. By tailoring the sample size to
the unique characteristics of Thamel Street 1, the study endeavors to collect sufficient data
for robust statistical analysis and in-depth qualitative insights, ensuring a comprehensive
understanding of the research objectives.

Nature and sources of data:

The nature and sources of data refer to the characteristics and origins of the information that
researchers collect for their study. There are two main types of data: primary and secondary.
Here's an overview of each:

Primary Data:

Definition: Primary data is original information collected directly from the source for the
specific research purpose at hand.

Nature: It is firsthand data that hasn't been previously collected or analyzed for any other
research.

Sources: Researcher gathers primary data through various methods, including surveys,
interviews, observations, experiments, and focus groups.
Characteristics: Primary data is specific to the research objectives and is often more tailored
to address the particular questions of the study.

Secondary Data:

Definition: Secondary data is information that has already been collected, processed, and
published for a different purpose by someone other than the researcher.

Nature: It is pre-existing data that researcher use for their study without direct involvement
in its collection.

Sources: Common sources of secondary data include government publications, academic

journals, books, market reports, and databases.

Characteristics: Secondary data can be time-saving and cost-effective. However, researchers

need to critically evaluate its relevance, accuracy, and reliability for their specific research
context.

Instruments:

For a study on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on restaurants in Thamel, Street -1,
Kathmandu, resercher will use a mix of primary and secondary data sources along with
various instruments.

Primary Data Collection:

1. Surveys or Questionnaires:

Instrument Description: Develop structured surveys or questionnaires to collect quantitative

data directly from restaurant owners, managers, and staff.

Application: Use this instrument to gather information on revenue changes, operational

challenges, customer behavior shifts, and adaptation strategies. Questions could include
financial metrics, changes in staffing, and the effectiveness of implemented measures.

2. Interviews:
Instrument Description: Prepare interview guides with open-ended questions for in-depth
qualitative insights.

Application: Conduct interviews with restaurant stakeholders to explore their experiences,

challenges, and perspectives during the pandemic. Gather qualitative data on strategies
employed, difficulties faced, and successful adaptations.

3. Focus Groups:

Instrument Description: Develop a structured guide for focus group discussions involving
multiple restaurant owners or stakeholders.

Application: Use focus groups to encourage interaction and discussion among participants,
gaining deeper insights into shared experiences, concerns, and potential solutions.

4. Direct Observations:

Instrument Description: Develop observation protocols to systematically record changes in

restaurant operations and customer behavior.

Application: Conduct on-site observations or virtual assessments to understand the day-to-

day challenges faced by restaurants, changes in customer interactions, and the effectiveness
of safety measures.

Secondary Data Collection:

1. Financial Reports and Records:

Instrument Description: Review existing financial records and reports from the restaurants.

Application: Analyze financial data to understand pre-pandemic performance, revenue

changes, and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Online Reviews and Social Media Analysis:

Instrument Description: Employ tools for sentiment analysis and content analysis of online
reviews and social media posts.
Application: Understand public perceptions, sentiment, and feedback regarding restaurants
during the pandemic. This can complement primary data on customer experiences.

3. Government Reports and Regulations:

Instrument Description: Collect relevant government reports and regulations related to the
restaurant industry during the pandemic.

Application: Understand the regulatory environment, government support programs, and

industry-specific guidelines that may have influenced restaurant operations.

4. Industry Reports and Surveys:

Instrument Description: Utilize industry reports and surveys related to the impact of
COVID-19 on the restaurant sector.

Application: Gain insights from broader industry perspectives, bench marking the local
findings against regional or global trends.

Combining both primary and secondary data sources and instruments will provide a
comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impact of the pandemic on restaurants in
Thamel, Street -1, Kathmandu. Ensure that the instruments are tailored to capture relevant
information and address the specific research questions.

Validity and Reliability

Every research investigation, particularly one studying the impact of the COVID-19
pandemic on restaurants in Thamel, Street -1, Kathmandu, demands a meticulous
consideration of reliability and validity. These principles are fundamental to ensuring the
accuracy and credibility of the study's findings.

Reliability, in the context of this study, speaks to the consistency of the data collected. It is
imperative that the instruments used to measure variables, such as surveys, interviews, and
observations, yield similar results under comparable circumstances. To enhance reliability,
careful attention was paid to the standardization of data collection processes. Surveys and
questionnaires were carefully crafted to be clear and unambiguous, interviews followed a
structured guide, and observations adhered to predefined protocols. By maintaining
consistency in these methodologies, the study seeks to ensure that if the research were
conducted again in similar conditions, it would produce comparable outcomes.

Validity, on the other hand, concerns the degree to which the data collected truly reflects
what the study intends to measure. In this investigation, validity is crucial to ensure that the
chosen instruments effectively capture the impact of the pandemic on restaurants in Thamel,
Street -1. Survey questions were designed to directly address the economic, operational, and
customer behavior aspects relevant to the study's objectives. Interviews were structured to
delve into the experiences and perspectives of restaurant stakeholders. By aligning these
instruments closely with the research questions, the study aims to enhance the face validity—
the extent to which the instruments appear to measure what they are intended to measure.

The data for this study was gathered through a combination of primary and secondary
sources. Primary data collection involved surveys, interviews, and direct observations from
the restaurants in Thamel. The selection of instruments was guided by the need to capture
both quantitative and qualitative aspects of the impact. Secondary data, obtained from sources
like financial records, online reviews, and government reports, complements the primary
data, providing a more holistic understanding of the situation.

By upholding rigorous standards of reliability and validity, this study aspires to produce
findings that are not only consistent and accurate but also genuinely reflective of the complex
and multifaceted impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on restaurants in Thamel, Street -1,
Kathmandu. These principles underpin the credibility and robustness of the research,
ensuring that the conclusions drawn are trustworthy and meaningful for both academic and
practical purposes.

Data Analysis Method

For the study on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on restaurants in Thamel, Street -1,
Kathmandu, a comprehensive data analysis approach will be employed to capture both
quantitative and qualitative aspects of the impact. Quantitative data, gathered through surveys
and financial records, will undergo statistical analysis to quantify and identify trends.
Descriptive statistics, such as mean and standard deviation, will be used to summarize
financial metrics like revenue changes and profit margins. Additionally, inferential statistical
techniques like correlation analysis or regression analysis will be applied to explore
relationships between variables, examining factors like closure duration or staffing changes in
relation to financial outcomes.

Qualitative data, acquired through interviews and observations, will be subjected to thematic
analysis. The themes emerging from qualitative data will provide deeper insights into the
experiences and challenges faced by restaurants during the pandemic. The qualitative
findings will be integrated with quantitative results to offer a comprehensive narrative.

A potential formula for assessing the percentage change in revenue could be utilized:

Formula of Percentage Change= (Old Value - New Value - Old Value)/Old Value×100

Regression analysis may be employed to model the impact of various factors on financial
metrics. For instance, a regression model could explore how variables such as closure
duration, staffing changes, or adaptation strategies correlate with revenue changes. The
results would provide a quantitative understanding of the significance of each factor in
influencing the financial impact.

The study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted impact of the
pandemic on restaurants in Thamel, Street -1, Kathmandu, utilizing a mixed-methods
approach that combines statistical rigor with qualitative depth. This approach not only allows
for the quantification of trends and relationships but also ensures a rich exploration of the
diverse experiences and adaptive strategies within the local restaurant industry.

In addition to quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods, the study on the impact of
the COVID-19 pandemic on restaurants in Thamel, Street -1, Kathmandu, will employ a
thorough examination of secondary data sources. Secondary data, such as government
reports, industry publications, and publicly available financial records, will be analyzed to
provide a broader context and benchmark for the study. Comparative analyses will be
conducted to assess how the local restaurants' performance aligns with regional or industry
trends, shedding light on the unique challenges and resilience exhibited by the Thamel, Street
-1 establishments.

Furthermore, sentiment analysis tools will be applied to online reviews and social media
comments to gauge public perceptions of the restaurants during the pandemic. This
qualitative aspect of the study will complement the firsthand experiences shared through
interviews and observations, offering a more comprehensive view of the restaurants' image
and customer satisfaction during these challenging times.

The integrated analysis will enable the study to explore the interplay between various factors.
For instance, the correlation between operational challenges identified through qualitative
interviews and their quantitative impact on financial metrics can be examined. This layered
approach, combining quantitative models, qualitative thematic analyses, and secondary data
comparisons, aims to uncover nuanced insights into how the restaurants in Thamel, Street -1
have navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic.

As the study strives to provide a holistic narrative of the impact of COVID-19 on the local
restaurant industry, the triangulation of findings from diverse sources will enhance the
reliability and validity of the results. Through this multifaceted approach, the study aspires
not only to quantify the trends and relationships observed but also to capture the resilience,
innovation, and community dynamics that have shaped the responses of restaurants in
Thamel, Street -1, Kathmandu, during this unprecedented period.