BA-CC7 Business Research WEEK 1 - 2 Lecture

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1.1 DEFINITION AND SIGNIFICANCE OF BUSINESS RESEARCH


Business research is a systematic and structured inquiry process aimed at gathering, analyzing,
interpreting, and reporting information to facilitate informed decision-making within a business or
organizational context. It involves the application of various research methods to explore, understand,
and address business-related issues, challenges, and opportunities.
Significance:
1. Informed Decision-Making:
Business research plays a crucial role in providing organizations with relevant and reliable
information needed for making informed decisions. By conducting research, businesses can gather
insights into market trends, consumer behavior, and industry dynamics, enabling strategic decision-
makers to formulate effective plans.
2. Strategic Planning:
Research contributes significantly to the strategic planning process by assisting in the
identification of market opportunities, competitive advantages, and potential threats. It helps
businesses align their strategies with current market conditions and future trends.
3. Market Analysis:
Understanding the market is essential for businesses to remain competitive. Business research
enables the analysis of market trends, customer preferences, and competitors, facilitating the
development of effective marketing strategies and the creation of products or services that meet
consumer demands.
4. Operational Efficiency:
Research aids in improving operational efficiency by identifying areas for process optimization
and cost reduction. It helps businesses streamline their operations and allocate resources effectively,
leading to enhanced productivity and profitability.
5. Innovation and Adaptation:
Continuous research allows businesses to stay abreast of technological advancements,
changing consumer preferences, and emerging industry trends. This knowledge facilitates innovation
and adaptation, ensuring that organizations remain agile and responsive to the dynamic business
environment.
Conclusion:
In essence, business research is a cornerstone for effective decision-making, strategic planning, and
operational success within organizations. It empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of the
market, anticipate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities, ultimately contributing to sustained
growth and competitiveness.
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References:
Zikmund, W. G., Babin, B. J., Carr, J. C., & Griffin, M. (2013). Business research methods. Cengage
Learning.
Cooper, D. R., & Schindler, P. S. (2019). Business research methods. McGraw-Hill Education.
Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research methods for business students. Pearson
UK.
Sekaran, U., & Bougie, R. (2016). Research methods for business: A skill-building approach. John
Wiley & Sons.
Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2017). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed
methods approaches. Sage Publications.
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1.2 TYPES OF BUSINESS RESEARCH


Business research delves into vital information for informed decision-making within companies.
However, it's not a homogeneous concept. Depending on the research aims and questions, diverse
types exist, each with its own strengths and limitations. Let's explore some key categories:

1. Based on Data Collection:


 Primary Research: Involves collecting original data firsthand through surveys, interviews, focus
groups, observations, or experiments. This allows for tailored data addressing specific
research questions.
 Secondary Research: Utilizes existing data from published sources like industry reports,
academic journals, government statistics, or company archives. It's often fast and cost-
effective for initial exploratory research.
2. Based on Research Objective:
 Exploratory Research: Aims to gain a deeper understanding of an unfamiliar topic or market. It
often uses qualitative methods like focus groups or interviews to gather insights and formulate
research questions.
 Descriptive Research: Characterizes a population or phenomenon, aiming to answer "what" or
"who" questions. Surveys and observational studies are commonly used for this type.
 Explanatory Research: Explores the cause-and-effect relationships between variables. It
frequently employs quantitative methods like experiments or advanced statistical analysis.
3. Based on Data Analysis:
 Quantitative Research: Deals with numerical data, using statistical methods to test hypotheses
and draw conclusions. Surveys, experiments, and financial data analysis often fall under this
category.
 Qualitative Research: Focuses on understanding experiences, motivations, and meanings
through non-numerical data like interview transcripts or observations. It aims to uncover
deeper insights that might not be captured by quantitative measures.
4. Additional Specialized Types:
 Market Research: Gathers information about customers, competitors, and market trends to
inform marketing strategies.
 Financial Research: Analyzes financial data to assess investment opportunities, evaluate
company performance, or manage risk.
 Operations Research: Applies mathematical modeling and optimization techniques to improve
operational efficiency and resource allocation.
Remember:
Choosing the right type of research depends on your specific research objectives, available
resources, and time constraints.
Combining different research types (e.g., secondary data analysis followed by primary surveys) can
offer a more comprehensive understanding.
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Consulting with research experts or utilizing specialized software can enhance the research process
and data analysis.
References:
 Hair, J. F., Risher, J. C., Babin, B. J., & Money, R. D. (2022). Marketing research (14th ed.).
McGraw-Hill Education.
 Saunders, M. N., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research methods for business students
(8th ed.). Pearson Education.
 Sekaran, U. (2023). Research methods for business: A skill-building approach (8th ed.). Wiley.
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1.3 THE RESEARCH PROCESS AND ITS STAGES


Research is a systematic and organized inquiry aiming to generate new knowledge, answer
questions, solve problems, or inform decisions. Understanding the research process and its stages is
crucial for conducting successful research projects in any field.
Stages of the Research Process:
1. Formulating the Research Question:
The initial step involves identifying a gap in knowledge or a problem that needs exploration.
Formulate a clear and specific research question that guides the entire process.
Consider the feasibility, significance, and ethical implications of your chosen topic.
2. Literature Review:
Conduct a thorough review of existing literature related to your research question.
This helps you understand the current state of knowledge and identify relevant theories, findings, and
methodologies.
Utilize scholarly databases and credible sources like peer-reviewed journals and books.
3. Choosing a Research Design:
 Select a research design appropriate for your question and objectives.
 Common designs include quantitative (surveys, experiments), qualitative (interviews,
observations), or mixed methods approaches.
 Consider factors like data collection methods, sampling techniques, and potential biases.
4. Data Collection:
Collect data using the chosen methods, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and ethical considerations.
This may involve conducting surveys, interviews, experiments, or collecting existing data from reliable
sources.
Maintain detailed records and document ethical approvals if necessary.
5. Data Analysis:
Analyze the collected data using appropriate quantitative or qualitative analytical techniques.
Organize, interpret, and draw conclusions from your findings, considering their strengths and
limitations.
Utilize relevant statistical tests or qualitative coding methods depending on your design.
6. Discussion and Conclusion:
 Discuss your findings in relation to the existing literature and address the research question
effectively.
 Identify the implications of your research for theory, practice, or future research directions.
 Be transparent about limitations and discuss future research needs.
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7. Dissemination: Share your research findings with the wider community through various means,
such as publications, presentations, or conferences.
Contribute to the advancement of knowledge and inform practice or policy decisions.
References:
 Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods
approaches. SAGE Publications.
 DeWalt, K. M., & DeWalt, B. F. (2011). Participant observation: A guide for qualitative
research. Routledge.
 Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2017). Nursing research: Principles and methods. Wolters Kluwer
Health.
 Saunders, M., Thornhill, A., & Lewis, P. (2019). Research methods for business students.
Pearson Education Limited.
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1.4 FORMULATING RESEARCH QUESTIONS AND HYPOTHESES


Formulating strong research questions and hypotheses are crucial first steps in scientific inquiry.
They lay the foundation for your research project, guiding your data collection, analysis, and
interpretation. Here's an in-depth look at what they are and how to formulate them effectively:
1. Research Questions:
A research question is an open-ended inquiry that sparks investigation and guides your research. It
defines the phenomenon you're studying, the gap in knowledge you aim to address, and the "what" of
your project.
Characteristics:
 Clear and concise: Easily understood by both researchers and your target audience.
 Specific and focused: Narrow down your area of interest to manageable proportions.
 Feasible and ethical: Consider time, resources, and ethical implications of your investigation.
 Emphasize why it matters: Highlight the potential contribution of your research to the field.
2. Hypotheses:
 Formulating strong research questions and hypotheses are crucial first steps in scientific
inquiry. They lay the foundation for your research project, guiding your data collection,
analysis, and interpretation. Here's an in-depth look at what they are and how to formulate
them effectively:
3. Formulating the Pair:
 Question first: Start with a well-defined research question before crafting your hypothesis. Your
question guides the direction of your inquiry and establishes the specific gap you're aiming to
fill.
 Hypothesis from question: Translate your question into a testable prediction. What specific
relationship between variables are you exploring?
Example:
Research question: Does implementing social media training for hospitality staff lead to increased
guest satisfaction?
Hypothesis: Hospitality staff who receive social media training will show higher guest satisfaction
ratings compared to those who don't receive training.
References:
 Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods
approaches. Sage Publications.
 Frankfort-Nachmias, C., & Nachmias, D. (2008). Research methods in the social sciences.
Wadsworth Publishing Company.
 Leedy, P. D., & Ormrod, J. E. (2015). Practical research: Planning and conducting effective
research using SPSS. Pearson Education.
 Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2017). Nursing research: Principles and methods. Wolters Kluwer
Health.
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2.1 IDENTIFYING RESEARCH PROBLEMS


Developing a strong research problem is the foundation of any successful research project. It defines
the scope of your inquiry, guides data collection and analysis, and ultimately shapes your contribution
to the field. But how do you identify a meaningful and achievable research problem in the first place?
Here are some key steps and strategies to get you started:
1. Start with your Interests and Passions:
Reflect on your academic background, professional experiences, and personal interests. What topics
captivate you? What questions haven't been fully answered or remain controversial? This personal
connection can fuel your research motivation and focus.
2. Conduct a Literature Review:
Immerse yourself in the existing scholarly literature related to your interests. Read recent articles,
reviews, and books in your chosen field. Identify gaps in knowledge, inconsistencies in findings, or
methodological limitations in existing research. These could spark potential research problems.
3. Look for "Whys" and "Hows":
As you review the literature, ask critical questions: Why are things the way they are? How can
existing theories or findings be further developed or challenged? Look for unresolved issues,
conflicting opinions, or areas where more evidence is needed.
4. Consider Feasibility and Significance:
Once you have potential research problems, evaluate their feasibility. Can you access the necessary
data and resources? Is the project manageable within your timeframe and budget?
Also, assess the potential significance of your research. Will your findings contribute meaningfully to
the field? Does the research address a relevant problem or have practical implications?
5. Consult with Experts and Peers:
Discuss your potential research problems with professors, advisors, or researchers in your field. Their
feedback can help you refine your ideas, identify potential challenges, and ensure your research
aligns with current trends and methodologies.
6. Use Brainstorming Techniques:
Brainstorming can help you generate a wider range of research problems. Use mind maps,
freewriting, or group discussions to explore different angles and perspectives related to your chosen
topic.
References:
 Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods
approaches. Sage Publications.
 Leedy, P. D., & Ormrod, J. E. (2015). Practical research: Planning and conducting research in
applied settings. Pearson Education.
 Lincoln, Y. S., & Guba, E. G. (1985). Naturalistic inquiry. Sage Publications.
 Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2017). Nursing research: Principles and methods. Wolters Kluwer
Health.
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 Punch, K. F. (2013). Introduction to social research: Quantitative and qualitative approaches.


Sage Publications.
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2.2 CRAFTING RESEARCH QUESTIONS AND HYPOTHESES


Crafting Research Questions and Hypotheses: A Guide for Success
Formulating strong research questions and hypotheses is crucial for conducting successful research.
They act as the foundation of your study, guiding your investigation and providing a clear framework
for analysis. Here's a breakdown of the key points and best practices:

Research Questions:
A clear and focused question that identifies the specific knowledge gap you aim to address through
your research.

Characteristics:
 Focused: Narrow enough to be manageable within your research scope and resources.
 Specific: Clearly defines the variables and concepts under investigation.
 Clear: Articulated in a way that is easily understood by both you and others.
 Researchable: Able to be answered through available data collection methods.
 Feasible: Achievable within your timeframe and constraints.

Examples:
"What is the impact of social media marketing on hotel booking rates in the millennial demographic?"
"Does implementing a training program for housekeeping staff lead to improved guest satisfaction in
luxury hotels?"

Hypotheses:
Definition: A tentative prediction or statement about the relationship between variables in your
research.

Characteristics:
 Testable: Formulated in a way that can be empirically tested through your research design.
 Specific: Clearly states the predicted direction or outcome of the relationship between
variables.
 Falsifiable: Open to being proven wrong or supported by your data.
 Parsimonious: Explained by the fewest possible assumptions.
Examples:
"Hotels that utilize targeted social media marketing campaigns will experience an increase in booking
rates among millennials compared to those that do not."
"Housekeeping staff who participate in a comprehensive training program will report higher levels of
job satisfaction and receive more positive guest feedback compared to those who do not participate."

Crafting the Perfect Duo:

 Research questions should guide hypothesis development. Start with a broad question, then
refine it into a specific hypothesis.
 Hypotheses should be derived from existing knowledge and theory. Consult relevant literature
to inform your predictions.
 Both questions and hypotheses should be aligned with your research objectives. Ensure they
address the specific issue you aim to investigate.
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Tips:
 Use clear and concise language. Avoid jargon and ambiguity.
 Utilize operational definitions. Define your variables in a way that allows for measurement and
analysis.
 Consider different types of research questions and hypotheses. Explore exploratory,
descriptive, explanatory, and correlational approaches.
 Seek feedback from others. Share your questions and hypotheses with peers, supervisors, or
experts in your field for constructive criticism.
Remember:
 Crafting strong research questions and hypotheses is an iterative process. Don't be afraid to
revise and refine them as your understanding of the research topic evolves.
 These elements are crucial for the success of your research. Dedicate time and effort to
ensure they are well-constructed and guide your study effectively.

References:
 Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods
approaches. Sage Publications.
 Leedy, P. D., & Ormrod, J. E. (2015). Practical research: Planning and design. Pearson
Education.
 Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2017). Nursing research: Principles and methods. Wolters Kluwer
Health.
 Scribbr. (n.d.). Writing a strong research question. Retrieved from
https://www.scribbr.com/research-process/research-questions/:
https://www.scribbr.com/research-process/research-questions/
 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. (n.d.). Developing hypotheses.
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2.3 CONNECTING RESEARCH QUESTIONS TO BUSINESS OBJECTIVES


Effective research doesn't exist in a vacuum. To truly add value, it must connect directly to the
business objectives you're hoping to achieve. This connection is established through well-defined
research questions that act as a bridge between curiosity and actionable insights.
Why is this connection crucial?
 Focus: Clear research questions ensure your research stays relevant and targeted, avoiding
the pitfall of aimless data collection.
 Relevance: They guarantee the findings directly address business needs and objectives,
leading to impactful results.
 Decision-making: Well-aligned research provides clear answers and actionable insights that
inform and support strategic decision-making.
So, how do you connect research questions to business objectives?
1. Start with the Objectives:
Clearly define your business objectives. What are you trying to achieve? Increase customer
satisfaction? Improve operational efficiency? Launch a new product?
Break down your objectives into specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART)
goals. This provides a concrete framework for your research questions.
2. Translate Objectives into Questions:
Ask questions that directly address your SMART goals. What factors contribute to customer
satisfaction? How can we streamline operations without compromising quality? What market research
informs the new product launch?
Ensure your questions are clear, concise, and testable. Avoid ambiguity and focus on gathering
meaningful data to answer them.
3. Refine and Iterate:
Test your research questions against your objectives. Do they truly capture the information you need?
Consider feasibility and resources. Can you realistically answer your questions within your budget
and timeframe?
Seek feedback from stakeholders and subject matter experts to ensure your questions are relevant
and well-defined.
Additional Tips:
Use mind maps or concept diagrams to visually connect your objectives and research questions.
Utilize tools like SWOT analysis or PESTLE frameworks to consider external factors impacting your
research.
Remember, good research doesn't just answer questions; it informs action and drives positive change
in your business.
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Remember:
The connection between research questions and business objectives is an ongoing conversation. As
your research progresses, you may need to refine your questions or even your objectives based on
new insights.
Open communication and collaboration among researchers, business leaders, and stakeholders are
vital for ensuring the research stays aligned with your goals.

References:
Babbie, E. (2020). The Practice of Social Research. SAGE Publications.
Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches.
SAGE Publications.
Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research Methods for Business Students. Pearson
Education Limited.
Williamson, A. (2021). Business Research: An Introduction. SAGE Publications.
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ACTIVITY 1 FORMULATION OF RESEARCH TITLE


This activity will guide you through developing a clear, concise, and informative title for your research
project.

Materials:
 Research topic description: A brief overview of your chosen research topic.
 Keywords: Relevant keywords related to your topic.
 Paper outline (optional): A preliminary outline of your paper's structure.

Instructions:
 Review your research topic description: Remind yourself of your research focus and key areas
of investigation.
 Identify relevant keywords: List down important terms and concepts associated with your topic.
These will form the building blocks of your title.
 Consider your target audience: Who will be reading your research? Tailor your title to be
understandable and relevant to them.
 Craft multiple title options: Don't settle for the first idea! Explore different ways to phrase your
title using your keywords.
 Aim for clarity and conciseness: Keep your title short and to the point, ideally within 15-20
words. Avoid unnecessary jargon or abbreviations.
 Highlight the research question: Ensure your title reflects the central question your research
aims to answer.
 Emphasize key findings (optional): If your research has a strong outcome, consider
incorporating it into your title for an informative edge.
 Test your title options: Read your options aloud and ask yourself:
 Does it accurately capture the essence of your research?
 Is it clear and easy to understand?
 Does it pique the reader's interest?
 Seek feedback: Share your best title options with peers, professors, or research advisors for
valuable input.

Submit: Printed Copy with Group Members Name
Font/Size: Arial / 12
Paper Size: Short
Clear Book Long - Yellow
Format:
1. Research Title
2. Research topic description: A brief overview of your chosen research topic.
3. Group Members Name
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ACTIVITY 2 FORMULATION OF CONCEPT NOTES


This activity will guide you through developing a clear, concise, and informative title for your research
project.
Materials:
 Research topic description: A brief overview of your chosen research topic.
 Keywords: Relevant keywords related to your topic.
 Paper outline (optional): A preliminary outline of your paper's structure.
Instructions:
 Review your research topic description: Remind yourself of your research focus and key areas
of investigation.
 Identify relevant keywords: List down important terms and concepts associated with your topic.
These will form the building blocks of your title.
 Consider your target audience: Who will be reading your research? Tailor your title to be
understandable and relevant to them.
 Craft multiple title options: Don't settle for the first idea! Explore different ways to phrase your
title using your keywords.
 Aim for clarity and conciseness: Keep your title short and to the point, ideally within 15-20
words. Avoid unnecessary jargon or abbreviations.
 Highlight the research question: Ensure your title reflects the central question your research
aims to answer.
 Emphasize key findings (optional): If your research has a strong outcome, consider
incorporating it into your title for an informative edge.
Test your title options: Read your options aloud and ask yourself:
 Does it accurately capture the essence of your research?
 Is it clear and easy to understand?
 Does it pique the reader's interest?
Seek feedback: Share your best title options with peers, professors, or research advisors for valuable
input.
Font/Size: Arial / 12
Paper Size: Short
Clear Book Long - Yellow
Format:
1. Title Page 7. Research Questions
2. Introduction 8. Hypothesis
3. Statement of the Problem 9. Methodology you intend to use
4. Value of Study 10. Timeline for Completion
5. Preliminary Literature review (3) 11. Outline Citation
6. Research Goals & Objectives
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ACTIVITY 3 FORMULATION OF STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM


Objective: Craft a clear and concise statement of the problem your research aims to address.
Instructions:
1. Review your Research Topic: Reflect on the broad area of interest you identified. What specific
concerns or issues sparked your curiosity?
2. Identify Existing Knowledge: Explore relevant literature, studies, and resources related to your
chosen topic. What questions have already been addressed? What knowledge gaps exist?
3. Focus on a Specific Issue: Within your topic, pinpoint a particular issue or phenomenon you
want to investigate further. Consider specific contexts, populations, or aspects that haven't
been extensively explored.
4. Refine the Issue: Break down your chosen issue into a manageable and answerable question.
Use the 5 Ws framework (Who, What, When, Where, Why) to ensure clarity and direction.
5. Identify Significance: Explain why this specific problem is important and worth researching.
Consider its potential impact on the field, community, or individuals involved.
6. Draft Your Statement: Formulate a concise statement that clearly describes the problem, its
context, and its significance. Ensure it's well-defined, specific, and focuses on the gap you aim
to address.
7. Test and Revise: Share your draft statement with peers, instructors, or other experts for
feedback. Consider their suggestions and revise your statement for clarity, accuracy, and
focus.
Example:

Statement of the problem

This study aimed to ascertain the food vendors' hygiene and food safety standards off the Agusan
Del Sur College campus.
1. Determine the demographic profile of local street food vendors in terms of:
1.1 Age,
1.2 Gender,
1.3 Years of experience as a street food vendor, and
1.4 Type of food you primarily sell.
2. What are the practices of street food vendors on food safety in terms of:
2.1 Safety practices receiving and storing ingredients,
2.2 Hygiene practices, and
2.3 Food preparation.
3. What measures can improve the food safety and sanitation of foods in terms of:
3.1 garbage disposal, food preparation,
3.2 food preparation, and
3.3 Service.
4. What is the level of awareness on food safety and sanitation?

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