Page 60 - DMGT209_QUANTITATIVE_TECHNIQUES_II

Unit 4: Research Problem

Notes

Notes Problem formulation is the key to research process. For a researcher, problem
formulation means converting the management problem to a research problem. In order
to attain clarity, the M.R manager and researcher must articulate clearly so that perfect
understanding of each others is achieved. In research process, the first and foremost step
happens to be that of selecting and properly defining a research problem. A researcher
must find the problem and formulate it so that it becomes susceptible to research. Like a
medical doctor, a researcher must examine all the symptoms (presented to him or observed
by him) concerning a problem before he can diagnose correctly. To define a problem
correctly, a researcher must know: what a problem is?

4.1.1 Self Questioning by Researcher while Defining the Problem

1. Is the research problem correctly defined?

2. Is the research problem solvable?
3. Can relevant data be gathered through the process of marketing research?
4. Is the research problem significant?

5. Can the research be conducted within the available resources?
6. Is the time given to complete the project sufficient?
7. What exactly will be the difficulties in conducting the study, and hurdles to be overcome?
8. Am I competent, to carry the study out?
Managers often want the results of research in accordance with their expectation. This satisfies
them immensely. If one were to closely look at the questionnaire, it is found that in most cases,
there are stereotyped answers given by the respondents. A researcher must be creative and
should look at problems in a different perspective.

Task Cultural and technological changes can act as a source for research problem
identification. Why/ why not?

Self Assessment

Fill in the blanks:

1. Any error in defining the problem incorrectly can result in wastage of .................... and
.....................
2. Managers often want the results of research in accordance with their ........................

3. To define a problem correctly, a researcher must know: ...................................

4.2 Selection of Problem

The research problem undertaken for study must be carefully selected. The task is a difficult one,
although it may not appear to be so. Help may be taken from a research guide in this connection.
Nevertheless, every researcher must find out his own salvation for research problems cannot be
borrowed. A problem must spring from the researcher’s mind like a plant springing from its

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