Discussion in Research Matrix Form Business Research
Discussion in Research Matrix Form Business Research
IMRAD FORMAT
1. Title Page
2. Abstract
3. Introduction
4. Method and Design
5. Results and Discussion
6. Conclusion and Recommendation
7. References/Appendices
Research Problem
A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, or gap in knowledge that a
researcher aims to address through their study. It serves as the foundation for any
research project, guiding the objectives, methodology, and scope of the
investigation.
Research Question
A research question is "a question that a research project sets out to answer".
Choosing a research question is an essential element of both quantitative and
qualitative research. Investigation will require data collection and analysis, and the
methodology for this will vary widely. Good research questions seek to improve
knowledge on an important topic, and are usually narrow and specific.
To form a research question, one must determine what type of study will be
conducted such as a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed study. Additional factors,
such as project funding, may not only affect the research question itself but also
when and how it is formed during the research process.
A research question is the central query that guides a research project. It is derived
from the research problem and defines the specific focus of the study. The research
question provides direction to the research process and helps in determining the
methodology, data collection, and analysis.
The research question must be accurately and clearly defined. Choosing a research
question is the central element of both quantitative and qualitative research and in
some cases it may precede construction of the conceptual framework of study; in all
cases, it makes the theoretical assumptions in the framework more explicit and
indicates what the researcher wants to know most and first.
Research Objectives
Research objectives are the specific goals or aims a researcher seeks to achieve
through their study. They provide a clear roadmap for the research, helping to
define what will be studied, analyzed, or evaluated. Objectives guide the research
process, ensuring that it remains focused and aligned with the overall purpose.
General Objectives:
Specific Objectives:
Research Outcome
A research outcome refers to the results, findings, or conclusions derived from a
research study. It represents the knowledge, solutions, or evidence generated by
addressing the research problem and answering the research question(s). The
outcome is typically the end result of the entire research process, providing insights
that contribute to the field of study or solve a practical problem.
3. Empirical Outcomes:
Statistical findings or data-driven insights.
Example: "80% of participants reported increased job satisfaction after
implementing remote work policies."
Research Output
A research output refers to the tangible deliverables or products resulting from a
research project. These outputs are the means by which the research findings,
knowledge, or insights are communicated, shared, or utilized. They can take various
forms depending on the nature and purpose of the research and the audience it
aims to reach.
Academic Outputs:
Peer-Reviewed Publications: Journal articles, conference papers, or book
chapters.
Theses/Dissertations: Detailed documentation of academic research.
Presentations: Conference posters, slide decks, or oral presentations.
Datasets: Raw or processed data made available for further analysis or
replication.
Technical Outputs:
Technical Reports: Comprehensive documents detailing research processes
and results.
Prototypes or Models: Physical or digital products developed as part of the
research.
Algorithms or Software: Tools or programs created to solve specific problems.
Creative Outputs:
Artistic Works: Paintings, sculptures, performances, or literary works inspired
by the research.
Interactive Exhibits: Installations or experiences that communicate findings.
Data Source
A data source is any location where you can find facts, figures, or other relevant
information to support your research. You may create your own data source through
experimentation, surveys, or observations, or you may choose to use data produced
by other researchers.
A data source is the origin or location from which data is obtained for research
purposes. It provides the information needed to answer research questions, achieve
objectives, and draw conclusions. Data sources can be categorized based on their
origin, type, and collection method.
Examples:
Surveys and questionnaires
Interviews
Focus groups
Observations
Experiments
Examples:
Government reports (e.g., census data)
Academic publications (e.g., journal articles)
Business records (e.g., sales data)
Online databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus)
Examples:
Encyclopedias
Indexes or bibliographies
Meta-analyses and systematic reviews
Data Collection
Data collection is the process of collecting and evaluating information or data from
multiple sources to find answers to research problems, answer questions, evaluate
outcomes, and forecast trends and probabilities. It is an essential phase in all types
of research, analysis, and decision-making, including that done in the social
sciences, business, and healthcare.
Data collection is the process of gathering and measuring information from various
sources to answer research questions, test hypotheses, or evaluate outcomes. It is a
critical step in the research process, ensuring that the data gathered is accurate,
relevant, and capable of supporting the conclusions drawn from the study.
Analysis Plan
An analysis plan is a structured blueprint that outlines how the collected data will be
processed, analyzed, and interpreted in a research study. It provides clear
guidelines for the methods, tools, and techniques that will be used to examine the
data, helping ensure the results are reliable, accurate, and relevant to the research
questions and objectives.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Research_question
https://researcher.life/blog/article/what-is-a-research-problem-types-and-examples/
https://researcher.life/blog/article/what-are-research-objectives-how-to-write-them-
with-examples/
https://www.genieai.co/en-us/define/research-output
https://dovetail.com/research/what-is-a-data-source/
https://www.simplilearn.com/what-is-data-collection-article