CHP 1

Chapter 1: Introduction to Research

Definition of Research

  • Business Research: A systematic and organized effort aimed at investigating a specific problem encountered in the workplace that requires a solution.

Discussion Question 1

  • Research Application: Describe a personal situation where research was used to inform decisions (e.g., buying a mobile phone, choosing a movie). Include details about:

    • The purpose of the research

    • The problem at hand

    • Types of information collected

    • Methods of information collection

    • Role of theory in the research

    • Proposed solution to the problem

Applied vs. Basic Research

  • Basic Research: Focuses on generating knowledge by understanding how certain organizational problems can be solved.

  • Applied Research: Intended to solve a current issue faced by a manager that requires a timely solution.

Examples of Applied Research

  • Apple and the iPod: Growth from $5 billion in 2001 to $32 billion in 2008.

    • 2006-2007: Music player sales grew over 200%.

    • 2008: Analysts predict a drop in sales by 12%, highlighting a limited market for iPods.

  • Soft Drink Research: Colas make up over 50% of soda sales, but consumption is declining due to health concerns.

    • Diet versions are losing popularity; example: Diet Coke sales decline at 7% annually.

    • Companies like Coke and Pepsi turn to research for new sweetener solutions to revitalize sales.

Areas of Business Research

  • Common research areas include:

    • Absenteeism

    • Communication

    • Motivation

    • Consumer decision making

    • Customer satisfaction

    • Budget allocations

    • Accounting procedures

Elaborated Definition of Business Research

  • Business Research: An organized, systematic, data-based, critical, objective inquiry into a specific problem, aiming to find answers or solutions.

Discussion Question 2

  • Importance for Managers: Understanding research is crucial for managers to effectively manage people, products, events, and environments.

Why Managers Should Know About Research

  • Knowledge of research helps managers to:

    • Identify and solve minor workplace problems.

    • Differentiate between quality and poor research.

    • Appreciate the diverse influences affecting situations.

    • Make calculated decisions with risk assessment.

    • Avoid influence from vested interests in decisions.

    • Build effective collaborations with researchers and consultants.

    • Integrate personal experience with scientific insights in decision-making.

The Manager–Researcher Relationship

  • Key concepts include:

    • Understanding each party's role.

    • Establishing trust levels.

    • Alignment of value systems.

    • Acceptance of findings and their implementation.

    • Differentiating between internal and external researchers/consultants.

Internal Researchers

  • Advantages:

    • Higher acceptance from staff.

    • In-depth knowledge of the organization.

    • Integral to the implementation and evaluation phase of research findings.

    • Generally lower costs.

  • Disadvantages:

    • Less innovative ideas.

    • Potential for power politics.

    • May not be perceived as "experts" by the staff.

External Researchers

  • Advantages:

    • Bring divergent and convergent thinking.

    • Experience across different organizations.

    • Typically possess better technical training.

  • Disadvantages:

    • Time-consuming to learn about the organization.

    • Building rapport and cooperation can be challenging.

    • Not involved in evaluation and implementation phases.

    • Higher costs associated.

Ethics in Business Research

  • Definition: Ethics refers to the code of conduct or expected societal norms behavior while conducting research.