Research is a thorough, orderly, organized, efficient and logical investigation of an area of knowledge or of a problem. In broader sense, the definition of research includes any gathering of data, information and facts for the development of knowledge.

Main components of a research are:

1. Curiosity:

Science is knowledge of the physical or material world gained through observation and experiment. Research begins with a broad question that needs an answer.  

2. Theory (Hypothesis)

Researcher creates an assumption to be proved or disproved with the help of data.

3. Experiment

Researchers design an experiment with steps to test and evaluate the theory (hypothesis) and generate analyzable data. Experiments have controls and a large enough sample group to provide statistically valid results.  

4. Observation

Observing and recording the results of the experiment generated raw data to prove or disprove the theory.  

5. Analysis

Statistical analysis on the data and organizing it so that it is understandable generates answers to the initial question. Data may show trends that allow for the broadening of the research.  

6. Conclusions

Research following the scientific method will either prove or disprove the theory (hypothesis). What happened and why it needs to be explained by the researcher is concluded. Even when a theory (hypothesis) is disproved, valuable data collected in the research may lead to further research. The results are normally published and shared.

business research methods

June 08, 2017