Unit 2 Research Process and Strategy

Research Methodologies

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Quantitative Research

Because it deals with specific empirical data that is gathered, measured, and analyzed, quantitative research methodology is a powerful form of research. In this methodology, relationships between variables are measured or quantified. This includes both dependent variables that are observed and independent variables or outcomes. Quantitative research can be applied to both observational and experimental research. The focus on hypothesis testing is really what distinguishes quantitative from qualitative research.

An example of a quantitative research project is the development of an electronic component based on two different kinds of software. If the research question is Which software enables the electronic component to perform faster and more efficiently?, the hypothesis is that Software A will outperform Software B using a specific set of criteria. The research design is to conduct an experiment to determine the best performing and most efficient software for the electronic component. Performance is measured based on a specific set of criteria.

Qualitative Research

Dealing with observation and analyzing trends as well as patterns and behaviors, qualitative research methodology is often referred to as a softer form of research approach. Qualitative research can be considered more exploratory in nature. Information is collected using focus groups, seminars, surveys, interviews, and forums.

An example of a qualitative research project is the study of how work is accomplished in an organization. A case study approach may be used as the research strategy. Information is gathered from organizational charts, documents, and observation of daily operational behavior. Results and conclusions from the study may generate recommendations or even more questions for further research.

Mixed Methods Research

Because it combines the power of quantitative and qualitative approaches, mixed methods research methodology is often considered the most powerful. An example of this type of research strategy is the use of both case study and an experimental design to explore an organization’s processes. Processes are observed, changed, measured, and the results quantitatively analyzed. Again, this research methodology combines the qualitative (case study approach) with

Research Methodologies

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the quantitative (experimental design) approach.

Action Research

Action research methodology provides a way to approach solving a problem or improving a process. The methodology's iterative nature is very similar to performing a quality process improvement effort within an organization. Although there are a number of models, the basic approach is a spiral process that includes identifying the problem, fact finding, planning, taking action, and evaluating and correcting as necessary.

One example of an action research project is that of an organization that operates a sales call center. The call center is dropping a high number of calls, thus losing potential revenue, so a team is pulled together and data are collected, reviewed, and an action plan developed. Corrections are continuously implemented until the call center metrics improve.

Ethics in Research

Whether in daily life, a job, or especially in research, ethical behavior is critical to protect personal and organizational integrity. When conducting research, the entire research process must be monitored and carefully administered to ensure each step of the process is following the highest standards of conduct possible. Regardless of the research methodology used, during the entire process, careful consideration must be given to honesty, intellectual property, use of human subjects, confidentiality, and social responsibility.

Examples of unethical behavior are not very hard to find. In research, ethics are crucial to maintain credibility of the researcher, the team, and even the organization conducting the research project. Once the information, analysis, results, and conclusions have been compromised, the value of the research is substantially, if not irreparably, compromised.