Business Research Methods – Research Design & Proposal Writing (Concise Notes)

Research Design

  • Plan of study to meet objectives / test hypotheses

  • Ensures collected evidence answers research questions

  • Primary designs generating \text{primary data}: exploratory, descriptive, causal

Exploratory Research

  • Used when problem is new / ambiguous

  • Clarifies, defines problems, develops hypotheses

Descriptive Research

  • Describes phenomenon, situation, group characteristics

  • Answers \text{who, what, where, when, how}

  • Two forms:

    • Cross-sectional: data collected once (few days–months); common in exploratory & descriptive studies

    • Longitudinal: repeated data collection (≥2 points); tracks change, before–after effects; costlier, near-causal insight

Causal Research (Explanatory)

  • Investigates cause–effect relationships

  • Manipulates independent variable to observe effect on dependent variable

Unit of Analysis

  • Subject being studied: individuals, groups, objects, departments, organisations, cultures, countries

  • Determined by research questions

Research Proposal

  • Concise document explaining planned study; basis for evaluation / approval

Standard Outline

  • Title (brief, clear)

  • Table of Contents (reader-friendly)

  • Abstract / Executive Summary (purpose, questions, rationale, hypotheses, design)

  • Introduction (background, problem, objectives, questions, scope, significance)

  • Literature Review (preliminary; informs framework)

  • Theoretical Framework & Hypotheses (diagram + proposed relationships)

  • Research Methodology (data collection & analysis plans)

  • Significance / Contribution

  • Time Frame (e.g., Gantt chart)

  • Budget (cost breakdown; optional for self-funded academic work)

  • Conclusion (wrap-up)

  • References (consistent citation style)

Managerial Implications

  • Proposal must persuade managers/clients/committees to approve the research plan