RESEARCH METHODS IN MANAGEMENT

Course Contents:
SECTION -I INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH METHODS IN MANAGEMENT : 1. Meaning, Nature, Scope, Significance, uses and limitations. 2. Interaction between Management and Research.

 3. Scientific Method and Research Process. 4. Problem formulation and statement of Research objectives. SECTION II RESEARCH DESIGN & METHODS OF DATA COLLECTION : 1. Research Designs Exploratory Res.

Descriptive Research, Experimental Research designs. 2. Basic Methods of Collection of Data; Observation and Survey Method. 3. Search of Secondary Data. 4. Questionnaire Design. 5. Attitude Measurement Techniques. 6. Administration of Surveys.

 SECTION - III : SAMPLE DESIGN. 1. Sampling Concepts- Sampling Different Methods of sampling. 2. Sample size decisions. SECTION - IV : DATA ANALYSIS. 1. Data processing- Editing, Coding, Classification, Tabulation, and Cross Tabulation.

2. Techniques of Data Analysis 3. Hypothesis Testing. 4. Tests of significance and analysis of associations. 5. Advanced Techniques for data analysis. SECTION - V :INTERPRETATION AND REPORT WRITING: 1. Meaning of Interpretation. 2. Significance of Report Writing.

3. Layout of the Research Report (contents or chapters) 4. Precautions for Writing Research Reports. 5. Research Applications In addition to above, there will be appropriate number of sessions for survey purpose.

REFERENCES:
1. Kothari C.R., Research Methodology, New Age International Publishers, New Delhi, 2009 edition. 2. Choudhary C.M., Research Methodology, RBSA Publishers, Jaipur. 3. Rajendra Nargundkar, Marketing Research Texts and Cases- Tata McGraw Hill Publishing Co. Ltd. 2002.

 4. Aaker Kumar, Dey Marketing Research , Seventh Edition, John Wiley and Sons Inc. 5. Cooper Schindler Business Research Methods, Sixth Edition, Tata McGraw Hill. 6. Boyd, Westfall, Stasch, Marketing Research, Text and Cases Seventh Edition , AITBS, New Delhi, 1996.

 7. Luck-Rubin, Marketing Research, Sixth Edition, Prentice Hall of India, Tull & Hawkins, Fifth edition, Maxwell Machmillan International. 8. Richard I. Levin, David S. Rubin, Statistics for Management, Prentice Hall, India.

 INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH METHODS IN MANAGEMENT. 1. MEANING & DEFINITION OF RESEARCH. 2. NATURE OF RESEARCH. 3. USE OF RESEARCH. 4. LIMITATIONS IN RESEARCH.

MEANING OF RESEARCH:
- Research in general refers to a search for knowledge. - Finding solution to a problem is a research. - Research is an Art of scientific investigation.

DEFINITIONS BY AUTHORS:
1. As per Websters Dictionary: A careful critical inquiry or examination in seeking facts for principles, careful investigation in order to ascertain something.

 2. As per Advanced Learners Dictionary of Current English:- A careful investigation or inquiry specially through search for new facts in any branch of knowledge.

 3. As per Redmon and Mory: Systematized effort to gain new knowledge is known as research.

 Research always starts with a question or a problem. Its purpose is to find answers to questions through the application of the scientific method. It is a systematic and intensive study directed towards a more complete knowledge of the subject studied.

 Research is based on some facts or on problems. For doing research collection of data and processing of data is done to know the results. The search for knowledge through objective and systematic method of finding solution to a problem is called Research.

 Research can be classified into two broad categories: (1) Basic Research, and (2) Applied Research. Basic research is sometimes called fundamental research or theoretical research, or pure research.

 Applied Research, which is also called decisional research, on the other hand, proceeds with a certain problem and it specifies alternative solutions and the possible outcomes of each alternative.

SALIENT FEATURES OF RESEARCH:

(1) objective of Research: The objective or purpose of any research is to find out facts. On the basis of facts inferences (conclusions) are drawn. Ultimately the real situation is known through Research. (2) Reliability and Validity: Truth is the foundation of Research. This can be established on

 the basis of facts and evidence. Evidence is based on sufficient and reliable data. The reliability and validity can be attained when the error of sampling is minimized. (3) Verification of Data: Any conclusion drawn by a Researcher is subject to the quality of verification.

 Verification pre-supposes the phenomenon of research being observed and measured. If a research is not based on observation and measurement, the verification of data will not be possible and inferences (or conclusions) or findings drawn from such studies will not serve the purpose.

 (4). Accuracy: In any type of research study, census or sampling methods are used. Researcher or Investigator should be wellversed with the techniques/methods used for collecting information or data. Complete accuracy can be attained when standard tools are used for collecting, recording and analyzing the

 Information or data. (5) Impartiality: If the data are partial, it will lead to a wrong information with wrong result. Thus, a research should be impartial while collecting data. Partiality leads to wrong information and it fails to give fruitful results to the Investigator/Researcher.

 (6) Scientific Approach: Traditional (old) culture of research was different as compared with todays modern or scientific research. Today, scientific methods are used in research to attain reliable results or findings. (7) Recording and Reporting: Every term used in research should

 Be well defined. Every procedure should also be described in detail. Any limiting factor should also be mentioned and taken into account. Various references used (i.e. Books, periodicals, journals, Articles, web-site etc.) in research should be carefully and systematically documented/recorded. Results of research should be properly recorded.

Conclusions and generalizations should be drawn with due care with the limitations of Methodology and data available for research. All these data can be used as a source of investigation for further research, in future.

TYPES OF RERSEARCH:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Descriptive and Analytical Research Applied and Fundamental Research Qualitative & Quantitative Research Conceptual and Empirical Research Survey and Evaluation Research Other types of Research.

DESCRIPTIVE vs. ANALYTICAL RESEARCH

Descriptive Research includes Surveys and Fact-finding enquiries of different kinds. The purpose of DR is to know the present state of affairs as it exists at present. The main characteristic of this method is that the researcher has no control over the variables.

 Researcher can report- what has happened or what is happening. Examples: (i) Frequency of shopping; (ii) Preferences of people. Method of Descriptive Research is Survey methods (all methods of surveys). - Survey may be for comparison of two items.

 - Survey may be for finding correlation between two items. Example:- Age group of MBA students of Two Institutions. Age group of Male or Female students in one Institution. In Analytical Research, the researcher has to use facts or information which is already available with him and he has to analyze

 those facts (or data) or information to make a critical evaluation of the material. Example: There are 60 students in PGDBM. Facts available is about their qualification i.e. B.Com./B.Sc./B.V.Sc,/B.A./B.E./B.Pharm. Researcher can analyze these data as under:-

Stream

No.

Ist

IInd Percentage

1. B.Com. 30 25 5 50% 2. B,Sc. 23 20 3 39% 3. B.V.Sc. 2 1 1 3% 4. B. Pharm. 1 1 2% 5. B.E. 2 2 3% 6. B.A. 2 2 3% ---------------------------------------------------60 51 9 100 ----------------------------------------------------

2. APPLIED vs. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH

Applied Research means action research. Fundamental Research means basic or pure research. Applied research aims at finding a solution for an immediate problem facing a society or an industries/business organization. Fundamental research is mainly concerned with generalizations or with formulation of a theory.

 Collecting data for knowledge is pure research. Example: Going to Bharatpur at Ghana Birds Century. Observing and collecting data on different types of Birds, their size, Shape, colour, habits, nest, taking photo etc. is known as fundamental research. Differentiating between Local & migrated Birds.

 Research concerning some natural phenomenon is known as fundamental research. Other examples can be: - (i) Human Behaviour - (ii) Human Habits - (iii) Human Psychology - (iv) Human Priorities.

 Applied Research: Where research is connected with Economic, Social, Political ,Business problem and certain solution to the problem is done, it is known as Applied Research. The aim of applied research is to discover a solution for some pressing practical problem.

Examples:
(i) Liking of people about a particular Newspaper - Rajasthan Patrika - Dainik Bhasker - Times of India - Dainik Nav Joyti - Hindustan Times - Nav Bharat Times - Economic Times (ii) Liking of Society about some consumer products : (i) Buiscuits: Britania, Marie Gold etc.

(ii) Shoe Company: Bata, Reebok, CSC, (iii) Motor Cycle : Suzuki, Rajdoot,Honda, Splender, Bullet etc. (iv) Ghee/Butter : Saras, Amul, Anik, Krishna, Milk-food, etc. (v) Political Party : Congress, BJP, DMK, JD, Lok Dal, others.

Liking of consumer products may be : - About Quality, - Size/Colour - Price/Cost - Taste/Flavour - Packaging - Comfort etc.

3. QUANTITATIVE vs. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

Quantitative Research is based on the number or measurement of quantity or amount. It can be expressed in terms of quantity say 10,20,50,100,1000 and so on. Qualitative Research is concerned with quality phenomenon. Research study relating to Quality or kind of Material is known as Qualitative Research (based on its performance).

 Quality may indicate - Desires, Motives, Opinion, or Attitude. QR also study the reasons for Human Behaviour and liking and dis-likings have reasons for it. Example : Organic and Inorganic Foods( Vegetables & Fruits), Free from Chemicals. Thus, QR is also known as Motivational Research.

 How people feel or what they think about a particular subject matter or institution is also a qualitative research. Example: There are many Management Education Institutions in Jaipur and - What do you think about IRM, and other Instt. - What do you compare about IRM with others. - How do you rate IRM with other Institutions.

 People think about quality of the subject matter.(Faculty, Library, Teaching, etc.). It may be a product or may be an Institution.(Popular for Placements). Here, the Behaviour of Consumer(user) is reflected. So the Human Behaviour is directly connected with quality of things. People have liking and disliking about a particular thing based on their behaviour.

 Due care is required to be taken in Qualitative Research. 4. CONCEPTUAL vs. EMPIRICAL RESEARCH: Conceptual research is based on some theory which is existing and is in practice. So whatever theory is existing further research is done to know new concepts in it. Fresh opinion may be taken on any past studies, will be CR.

 Re-interpretation on existing theory is made under Conceptual Research. Empirical Research( Data based) is based on Experiments or observation or experiencing something. It is data-based research, with conclusions which are capable of being verified by observation or by experiments.

 For Example: Concept & Theory says that Maruti 800 Car can run at a speed of 120 km/hour. (M/Cycle :90km in a litre). By using the Car on experimental basis or test drive basis, the speed can be observed and verified or further improvement can be done by changing the mechanism or change in fuel combination.

5. OTHER TYPES OF RESEARCH:

(a) Laboratory Research (For testing Chemical or other reactions on something. (b) Diagnostic Research (to know causes/investigating the reasons). Blood Test to know the sugar and other contents (clinical Research). (c) Historical Research (Documents, structure etc. or ideas of the past. Forts, Monuments, Sculptures, Coins, manuscript etc.

RESEARCH APPROACHES:
There are different approaches or methods of doing research. There are Two Basic Approaches in Research: (A) Quantitative Approach. (B) Qualitative Approach (A) QUANTITATIVE APPROACH: (i) It involves generation of Data in quantitative form. Data can be analysed in various forms and findings may arrive at.

(ii) Characteristics of data & their relationship of population is find out. (iii) Generally, in Quantitative Research Survey is done & sample of population is studied. (Liking of Coca-Cola/ Pepsi). (iv) Literacy level, Average number of persons in a family, are quantitative. (iv) Survey can be done through questionnaire/Observation method.

 (B) QUALITATIVE APPROACH: Qualitative approach of Research is undertaken to know : (a) Attitude of population (about use of some product Say : Colgate Toothpaste); (b) Opinion of population (about any political party or group of people); (c) Behaviour of population (about some product e.g. T.V./Fridge/WM/Vehicle).

 In all above approaches interview or depth interview of a focus-group (identified persons) is taken. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESEARCH: Significance means importance or usefulness of research. Why Research ? Or What is the use of Research?

 The Answer is Research is used to solve the problems in the Society/Business/Govt. Organization. By the use of Research, operational problems of Business/Govt. is solved. Research helps in forming Economic Policy for both Govt. and in Business.

 Needs & Desires of the people are known through Survey and Research. Then, Govt. look at the availability of Resources/Revenues to meet the needs of the people. NEEDS MAY BE : -Need of Buses on a particular rout. -Availability of Food-grains for public.

 - Need of Road, Water Supply by Govt. - Need of Market in the Colonies (HB). - Need of Dairy Booth for Milk Supply. - Need of School/College/ Tech.Edu.Ins. - Any other need of Public/Business. For all above needs, the Govt. sees the availability of things and funds. The cost of needs is assessed.

 Probable income/revenue generation is also looked into. (Charges/Taxes) Through Research, alternative policies can be decided that which activity/need will be fulfilled by whom i.e. by Govt. or by Private People or under Public-PrivatePartnership (PPP). For Example: To run Roadways/Hospitals Or Collection of Electricity/Telephone Bills.

 Economic Activities are undertaken by Govt. on the basis of Surveys & decisions are taken by Govt. for Public interest. (Collection of Bill through e-Governance system) Like wise for Business activities, Govt. allows to business people to do an Economic Activity. For Example: (i) Procurement of Food-grain: -50% is done by Govt./Govt. Agencies & -50% is done by Private Business people

(ii) Construction of Houses: - 50% is done by Govt. Agencies; Housing Boards, HUDCO,UIT/JDA DRDA or Gram Panchayat etc. - 50% is done by Private Builders or .Cooperative Societies. (iii) Educational Institutions: - Govt. & Private both are doing.

 (iv) Generation of Electricity & Distribution to public: -Both Govt. and Private Sector is doing. (v) For distribution of Cooking Gas the Govt. have given this work to Private Agency. - For other activities also the Govt. and Private sector is engaged in all types of Economic Activities for public. The needs are identified through Research i.e. survey method.

 Research has its special significance in solving various operational and planning problems of Business and Industry. MARKET RESEARCH is done : - For Development of Market, - For Business Decisions, - For Policy Formulation for purchase, production and sales of some product.

 SOCIAL RESEARCH

 Social relationship and Problem include : (a) Study of Child Care & Development especially in Rural or Backward areas. (b) Study of Mother & Child Care (especially for pregnant lady and infant). (c) Health Care and Nutritional Diet in Rural area. (d) Primary Education in Rural Area. (e) Livelihood generation activities

 IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH: 1. Research is important in solving operational problems of Govt. as well as that of Business Houses. 2. Research plays an important role in framing Economic Policy of the Country which may be related to : - (a) Agricultural Production. - (b) Price Policy of Commodities.

-(c) Distribution of Essential Commodities -(d) Import-Export Policy. -(e) Industrial Policy. -(f) Economic Reforms through Privatization. -(g) Public and Private Participation Policy -(h) Employment Perspective (areas)

 -(i) Poverty Reduction Programme. -(j) Taxation Policy. 3. Research gives basis to Govt. for taking decision for development of Big and small Industries, Farming Development, Size of Defence Services (increasing number of Soldiers etc.),or any important area of Development.

 4. Market Research gives information to Business and Industry to take decisions for production & Sales i.e. Market Behaviour (about liking & disliking of Product by public). 5. Research provides information (various factors) related to Future Demand of a product in Business.

 6. Business Research shows Need of change in Budgting, affecting Profit & Loss based on Sales estimates. 7. Business Research gives information regarding forecasting of Sales of a product or services (e.g. Sale of Maruti Car or Honda Motor Cycle. 8. Research is important for Social Scientists in studying relationships & seeking answers to various Social Problems.

 9. Research is important for Ph.D. students or Research Scholars or students of Management. 10. Research is important for Philosophers, and thinkers for writing new ideas & insights for public. 11. Scientific Research is important for development of Nation in all areas.

 Thus, Research is the fountain of knowledge for the sake of knowledge to solve different business/Governmental and Social Problems. ======= DIFFERENCE BETWEEN Research Methods (or techniques) and Research Methodology:

RESEARCH METHODS
Research Methods are all those methods/Techniques which are used for conduct of Research. The methods used in performing research operations are known as Research Methods. Research Methods can be divided in 3 groups:

 Group I : COLLECTION OF PRIMARY DATA Those methods which are connected with the Collection of Data. (for collection of Primary Data). Primary data are collected where secondary data are not sufficient to arrive at the required solution of a problem. Group II: ANALYSIS OF DATA.

This group consists of those statistical Techniques which are used for establishing relationships between the data and the unknowns (Mean, Mode etc.) Group III: TESTING OF ANALYSED DATA: It consists of those methods which are used to evaluate the accuracy of the results obtained( T-test, Z Test, Chi-Sq.).

 Methods falling in Group II and III (above) are generally taken as Analytical Tools of Research. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: It is a way to solve the research problem systematically. RM includes the use of various tests, calculation of Mean, Mode, the Median or the Standard Deviation, or Chi-Square Test.

 Only relevant research method/s should be used and applied in research. Researcher should also know assumptions, and their use. Research Methodology may differ from one problem to other problem (Study). For selecting any Research Method, the researcher has to give reasons for it.

 Research Methodology has many dimensions and Research method/s is/are a part of Research Methodology. Research Methodology is a wider term as compared with Research methods. In Research Methodology, we mention first about Research Methods, along with its logic. We also explain that why we are using a particular method/technique.

 Certain Question and Answer will make more clear about the Research Methodology, as under : Q. 1. Why a Research Study has been undertaken ? Ans. The objective of study should be highlighted. It may be a comparative study. (Any two or more products/Brands)

 Q. 2. How the Research Problem has been defined ? Ans. : What has been done in past and what scope of study exists, is required to be highlighted. Q. 3.: In what way and why the Hypothesis has been formulated ? Ans. : To study and compare two area may be the hypothesis (Purpose of study/Basis of study).

 Q. 4. Which data have been collected out of many ? Ans. : We can say that 10% data have been collected on sampling basis. Q.5 : Which particular method has been adopted/selected ? Ans.: We can say-Random sample/Cluster sample/Systematic/Deliberate/Area sample method has been selected (with reason).

 Q.6. Why particular technique of Analyzing data has been used ? Ans. :We can say about Mean/mode/median/Standard Deviation /ZTest/T-Test/Chi-square Test have been used (with reasons). SCIENTIFIC METHOD OF RESEARCH: 1. It is based on Numerical data evidence.

 2. It is based on certain Objective only. 3. It aims at making adequate and correct statements (information) about population objects (Targeted populationRural/Urban) ). 4. It gives results on probable predictions. 5. Its methodology used is known to all. 6. It can formulate Scientific Theories.

RESEARCH PROCESS
Research process is also known as Steps in Research. Research process consists of series of actions or steps necessary to carry out research. Research process guides a researcher to conduct research in sequence.

Research Process in Flow Chart

I Define Research Problem (object of study) 2. Review the Literature (a) Review concepts & Theories (b) Review previous research findings 3. Formulate Hypothesis (what you want to do- mention here). 4. Design Research (including sample design)

 5. Collect Data (execution of research) 6. Analyze Data (Test hypotheses,if any) 7. Interprete the Data and Prepare Report

USEFUL PROCEDURAL GUIDELINE REGARDING RESEARCH PROCESS IS AS FOLLOWS: Formulating the Research Problem Extensive Literature Survey Developing the Hypothesis Preparing the Research Design

1. 2. 3. 4.

5. Determining sample Design 6. Collecting the data 7. Execution of the project work. 8. Analysis of data 9. Hypothesis Testing 10.Generalizatin and Interpretation 11.Preparation of the report or

presentation of the results i.e. formal write-up of conclusions reached by research. BRIEF DETAILS ABOUT THESE 11 POINTS: - Identify the problem, you want to study. - Aspect of a subject matter that you would like to study (or inquire into).

- See that it is feasible to study the problem or subject matter you have selected for study. - Two steps are involved here (in formulating the research problem: (a) Understand the problem thoroughly, (b) Rephrasing (or re-defining) the same into meaningful terms.

 Thus, discuss the issue with friends and your Faculty Guide, and the Administrative Heads of Institution/Company/Corporate House etc. where you will conduct Research Work. You are required to read two types of Literature : (a) Conceptual Literature (theory based) and (b) Empirical Literature (Studies made earlier on the subject).

So, check-up Statement of Objective (Title of your Research) because it will determine the data which are to be collected. 2. EXTENSIVE LITERATURE SURVEY: Collect the literature available from Books, Reports, which is relevant to your study.

 DESIGNING THE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: Research Methodology depends on TWO FACTORS: (1) Target Population ( Urban, Semiurban or Rural). (2) Importance of decision which will be taken based on the Research.

 Major parts of Research Methodology are: 1. Research Method (method to be used for data collection). (a) Secondary Data (available record), Research starts with secondary data. (b) Primary Data: (ending research with Primary data.

Primary source (for data) may be :(i) Customers (ii) Buyers (iii) Users/Consumers (iv) Dealers (v) Distributors (vi) Retailers (vii) Other Respondents

2. Sampling Plan. 3. Questionnaire Design. 4. Field Work-Plan 5. Analysis Plan. Data collection from Respondents can be done by many different methods. The major methods, commonly used are: (1) Survey Method,

(2) (3) (4) (5) 1.

Observation Method, Experimentation method, Qualitative &Quantitative Techniques. Other Techniques or methods. SURVERY METHOD:

By Telephone (Advantage & Disadvanatage Low cost but is fast) By Mail (It is a slow method & Time consuming, non-respondents are more)

In Person :- Question can be explained to respondent, facial reaction & body language can be observed. - By E-mail (using Internet): -It does not represent true sample. -May have computer/Laptop or not. -For speedy work Telephone & e-mail would be excellent methods.

Personal Interviews are the preferred method for doing surveys in India. Other methods (i.e. mail & Telephone) may be useful will depend on target population and the objectives of the Research. 2. OBSERVATION METHOD: - In this method consumers behaviour is recorded.

- Recording can be done by noting on papers by some other person, or - A video Camera can record a customers behaviour where he/she buys a product say a Garment, then PRICE, COLOUR, FABRIC may reveal his facial expression i.e. Buying Behaviour.

 On the basis of video tap- one can interpret for the purchase factors, purchase behaviour, brand preference, price and colour preference age factor also reflect behaviour. It gives more accurate information. It is an expensive method.

 3. EXPERIMENTATION METHOD: -It is a quantitative research method. - It involves more control over the cause and effect when compared to survey method. -In experiments, we try to measure the effect of one or more variables by changing the level of some variables and measuring the effects.

 For Example: If an advertisement is released in Newspaper and we measure the brand awareness of the advertised brand (of a product say- Mobile set) among a sample of target respondents say in any area/colony. This type of knowing would be termed as experiment. Other Example: A product test could be

 designed as an experiment for any product : For sale of different variety of TEA or COFFEE, if consumers who are coming for purchase of Grocery Items at a Grocery Shop, are served with free sample of TEA or COFFEE. It will be an experiment by the Company to know the test of consumers for TEA or COFFEE.

 QUALITATIVE TECHNIQUES: When quantitative surveys are inadequate, Qualitative techniques are used to know the minds of respondents (Public). Interviews with open-ended questions are asked. Unstructured Questions may be asked to know his/her views.

 What do you expect from a Refrigerator ? What needs does it fulfill ? Here, the behavioural aspect of public is known. Sample size in qualitative techniques is usually small. It needs to be done by experts only (Sociologist or Psychologist).

 Example of TVS moped, when it was launched, was compared with Bajaj Scooter. Later on the Scooty was launched after changing the design of TVS. SPECIALIZED TECHNIQUES used by Market Researchers. There are 3 specialized techniques :

 1. A Consumer Panel 2. Retail Audit 3. TV Audience Measurements. 1. A CONSUMER PANEL (List is there): (a) A sample of consumers is chosen for keeping a record of what they buy in a given period of time. (b) What TV shows they watch in a given period of time. Say between 7-9 pm.

(c) They have to record this information in a diary ( say on Daily/Weekly basis) and hand it over to the marketing research agency for tabulation and analysis. (d) The special feature of this is that the sample remains the same for 1/3/6 months or even sometime for one year. (e) Usually, there is a payment for being part of such a sample (for extra efforts ).

 2. RETAIL AUDIT: (At retail outlet): A retail audit measures what brands are sold and their quantity is sold in a particular period. It could be done weekly. In India, ORG is a company which routinely performs retail audits. It is a measurement done at the retail level. Locality-wise information of sale of a product can also be done.

 Usually, such audits are best done by a third party (Independent agency), to reduce chances of bias, rather than the Marketing Company. Some times such studies are undertaken by the Company for its own brands at either consumer level or retail level. Such studies are generally done after launch of a new product.

 3. TV- AUDIENCE MEASUREMENTS: These days, millions of rupees are spent on Advertising on TV. It is important for the marketer to know who is watching the TV shows on which time & channel. Advertisements are given on the TV channel and programme which is seen by the family is known by the Ad. Company. Such people are called Peoplemeters.

 PLAN FOR SAMPLE, FIELD WORK AND ANALYSIS: The next stage in Marketing research study is the plan for : 1. Sampling 2. Field work 3. Analysis. This work needs accuracy of the study.

 1. SAMPLING PLAN : What will be sample composition and size. What is total population (say 10,000) Take few percentage point as sample. What is target population ( say 10%=1000) Two precautions should be taken to ensure a good sample:
(a) Use a probabilistic (sample to be proving as true) sampling technique which is not biased.

(b) Try and divide the population to be sampled into segments or strata :(i) Users/non-users. (ii) Classes based on Age, income etc. (iii) Ensure that each segment gets represented in the final sample Limitations, if any, should be taken care of.

1.
FIELD WORK PLAN: 1. Decide the sampling centers (Cities, towns, area, colony/localities etc. (Rural) 2. Decode sample size for each City, town, area, colony/localities.(A, B, C, D) 3. Decide that who will do the field work for collecting data. (Self/Employed worker) 4. Decide field area i.e. Homes, Offices,

 5. Dealers etc. 6. Decide what is to be collected, its format of recording. 7. Format of interview is generally, a questionnaire. Field workers are using questionnaire in most cases. 8. Assume here that the questionnaire is as per requirement of the study/research.

 9. There should be a well planned schedule so that all field work is completed in an definite time. 10. Decide cross check of the data collected to test the data so collected. 11. When data is to be collected from field under supervision of an Supervisor through research executives then,

 The Supervisor should brief the field workers that how the data is to be collected. Briefing session is conducted where field workers are required to be recruited (on temporary basis) for field work. Mock interviews are conducted as a part of practice for collection of data in field. Questionnaires are filled by the field workers.

 The time limit for collection of data in field should be taken care of ( 3 days, 7 days). If possible, a pilot study of a small sample should be performed, before starting regular field work. Pilot study may be for one day to know difficulties & clarifications on various points faced during field study.

 ANALYSES PLAN AND EXPECTED OUTCOME: Analysis is based on the answers given to questions in Questionnaire. Analysis plan should be prepared well in advance. There are normally two very basic kinds of analyses in a Marketing Research study. These are :

1. Simple Tabulation 2. Cross Tabulation. 1.SIMPLE TABULATION : a) This involves counting the number of responses in each category for a question, and putting it in a frequency table form. b) This can be used to compute percentages, by dividing the number of responses by the sample size. c) Simple tabulation is done for each question

in the questionnaire. 2. CROSS TABULATION : Cross tabulation is done when counting simultaneously, answers to two or more different questions on a questionnaire. While doing cross tabulation, it is also necessary that the two questions (variables) that we are cross-tabulating must be related to or associated with each

 Other. For instance, in the purchase of a Bathing Soap- Question may be as under: How frequently respondents buy a Bathing Soap ? (once/twice/thrice in month) Which fragrance of the soap is preferred? (Reply may be : Rose/Jasmine/Lavender/Sandle etc. etc. It is possible to compute cross tabulation data for any two questions on a Questionnaire.

 BUDGET & COST ESTIMATION: There are three basic parameters for estimating cost: 1. Sample size.( small/big sample) 2. Geographical area and location of each respondents. 3. Who will do the field work.

 If it is a industrial field work then Research Executive from Industry will conduct field work and it will be a costly affair. Whereas for consumer product or service studies, it is done by hiring temporary field workers, which is a less expensive compared to industrial field work. Travel cost, communication cost and daily wage is included in the cost of field work

 Along with Stationery cost. PRESENTATION, REPORT AND MARKETING ACTION: After the Tabulation and Analysis is completed, the next step is a presentation of the major findings to the sponsor of the study. This includes a presentation of all the major Tabulations

 (frequency tables) and cross-tabulations in percentage (%) terms. It may also include a summary of major findings, and some recommendations. A formal report usually follows the presentation. This would normally contain the following: 1. Executive Summary 2. Table of contents

 3. Introduction 4. Research objectives 5. Research methodology, - Sample design, - Field work plan and dates - Analysis/expected outcome plan - Questionnaire copy (as annexure)

6. Analysis, - Simple Tabulation - Cross Tabulation - Any special analysis. 7. Findings 8. Limitations 9. Recommendations for action 10. Bibliography/List of references. =====

DATA COLLECTION:
SOURCES OF SECONDARY DATA: Two sources : (i) Internal & (ii) External Internal source: within Firm Three major sources of External data are : 1. Census Data and other Govt. Publications 2. Non-Governmental Publications. 3. Commercial Information Syndicated services, Data bases (Reports of Industries).

 General points for Researcher: (1). Researcher should design the data collection Project. (2). For Exploratory Research collection of Secondary Data (through survey) is essential. (3). How secondary data will be collected, should be mentioned in the detailed data collection scheme.

 (4). The best design which serves the purpose/objective of research is selected. 1. Census Data & Govt. Publications: (a) Census data conducted every 10 years throughout the country (size of population, Age, Sex, occupation, Income etc. are given in it). -Source: Registrar General of India.

 (b) Statistical Abstract India - Annually. Source: Central Statistical Organization (CSO) Indian Economy. (c) Annual Survey of selected Industries Source: CSO Number of Units. (d) Monthly Survey of selected Industries. Source: CSO. (e) Foreign Trade of India Monthly Statistics. Source: Director General of Coml. Intelligence

 (f) Wholesale Price Index- weekly All India Consumer Price Index: Source: Ministry of Commerce and Industry (Food Articles). (g) Economic Survey Annual Publication Source: Deptt. Of Eco. Affairs, Mini. Of Finance. (Growth in various sectors). (h) National Sample Survey (NSS) : Source: Min. of Planning (Social, Eco. Agr.etc).

Other Important Govt. Publications:

1. Basic Statistics Relating to Indian Economy (By Planning Commission). 2. India Pocketbook of Economic Information (By Ministry of Finance). 3. Agricultural Situation in India (By the Ministry of Food & Agriculture). 4. Reserve Bank of India Bulletin (By RBI) 5. Reports by all the Ministries for their relevant Sector/Areas.

 SECONDARY DATA- NON-GOVERNMENTAL PUBLICAGTIONS: 1. Company Working results- Stock Exchange Directory. Source: Bombay Stock Exchange 2. Status Reports by various Commodity Boards: Source: The Commodity Board of the Industry Association like Jute,/Cotton,/Sugar/ Boards etc.

 3. Industry Association on problems faced by Private Sector etc. Source: FICCI, ASSOCHAM, AIMA 4. Export Related data- Commodity wise. Source: Leather Exports Promotion Council, Apparel Export Promotion , , Council, Handicrafts/Tea/Spices,etc. Exim Bank etc.

 5. Crop Survey Annual Reports. Source: ORG (Operations Research Group). TWO BASIC METHODS OF COLLECTION OF DATA: 1. Observation Method. 2. Questionnaire Method (or Survey method or Interview method).

 In observation method, the Respondent is simply observed and his actions are recorded either by physically watching him or through certain mechanical or Electronic device (Video Camera). QUESTIONNAIRE METHOD:- In this method, Respondent is questioned directly about his attitudes, opinions and demographics.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Data Collection method:

1. Questionnaire Method: (A) Advantages: `(i) All types of Res. Problems can be addressed. (ii) It records not only factual data but also records attitude and opinion. (iii) Less time consuming.

 (iv) Less expensive than observation method. (v) It is very structured so chances of incorrect recording is less. (vi) A large number of respondents can be contacted from all over the country at the same time.

 (B) Disadvantages: (i) Respondents have reached to a level of saturation. (ii) Respondents might not respond with the actual feelings or facts. (iii) Respondents may refuse to answer to certain questions. (iv) His responses may be biased.

Observation method: Advantages:

(i) The respondent is observed directly so that no chances of bias. (ii) Willingness of the respondent is not a problem because we can observe it. (iii) Social research studies are using observation as the first step to understand the behaviour of people (Rural, Urban etc.) (iv) Studies involving plants, Animals, or

 Small Babies would have to opt for the observation method (more suitable). Disadvantages: (i) Action of the respondent do not provide any reasons for his behaviour or his attitudes and opinion. (ii) It is expensive and time consuming to set up and undertake observation studies.

 (iii) The data collected is completely dependent on skills of the observer and the manner in which he records and interprets them. (iv) The studies are not very reliable or valid since the same results might not hold true for different observations or two similar respondents.

 (v) Very few respondents can be contacted owing to time constraints.

Model MCQs
1. The main purpose of research is : (a) Expansion of Knowledge (b) To solve any practical problem (c) To suggest & provide alternative solutions (d) To provide final answers scientifically to solve problem.

 2. Communication between the Manager and the researcher is : (a) Applied Research (b) Basic Research (c) Research Process. (d) Marketing Research

 3. Research is understood as :
(a) (b) (c) (d) Collection of data Systematic Collection of information. Identifying a problem Gathering information

 4. As a researcher, identifying the characteristic features of scientific method: (a) Direct observation of phenomena (b) Clearly define variables & method (c) Self-correction process ( d) All of the above

 5. In a research process, scientific inquiry is based on : (a) Thinking ( b) Reasoning (c) Research (d) None of the above.

 6. What are the two major characteristics of the Scientific method : (a) Validity (b) Reliability (c ) a &b above (d) None of the above

 7. Which research aims at enlarging the boundaries of knowledge : (a) Applied Research (b) Basic Research. (c) Decisional Research (d) None of the above

 8. If a research is designed to obtained a preliminary investigation, it is known as : (a) Applied Research (b) Exploratory Research. (c) Conclusive Research (d) None of the above

 9. Which statement is submitted to the client before a project : (a) (b) ( c) (d) Research Design Research objectives Research Proposals None of the above

 10. The basic requirement in a Research Process is : (a) Identifying the Problem (b) Design the objectives (c) Communicate the research Objectives (d ) All the above

 11. If a researcher wants to conduct a field survey, which approach should he follow: .(a) Sample Survey (b) Census Survey (c) Population (d) All the above

 12. The Survey Researcher is concerned with :(a) (b) (c) (d) Sampling Questionnaire Design Questionnaire Administration All the above.

 13. Survey Research means: (a) A method of collecting primary data for marketing decisions. (b) A method of collecting secondary data for marketing decisions. (c) A method of collecting information about a problem. (d) None of the above.

 14. The sequence of the questionnaire depends on the following : (a) Method of Research (b) Objectives of Research. (c) Sample size (d) (a) & (b) above

 15. A Questionnaire generally contains: (a) (b) (c) (d) Structured Questions Un-structured Questions Combination of both (a) & (b) All of the above.

 16. The first step in the Marketing Research is : (a) .(b) (c) (d) Research Objective Problem Definition Collecting information Exploratory Research

 17. The end product of an Exploratory Research is :- (a) (b) . (c) (d) Research Objectives More information A set of Hypothesis More confusion

 18. The least expensive type of research is :- .(a) (b) (c) (d) Survey of Secondary Data Case-study Method Statistical Method Experimentation

 19. If the value of information is found to be positive: ( a) The Researcher should go ahead with the research (b) Stop the Research (c) Conduct an Exploratory Research (d) None of the above

 20. The research type which has the lowest interviewer bais is : (a) (b) (c) (d) Case-Study Focus Group Survey of Secondary Data Statistical Method.

 21. When a relatively small number of respondents is to be contacted in the urban area in upper-income socioeconomic classes, the best mode for communication is : (a) Personal Survey (b) Mail Survey (c) Telephone Survey, (d) All the above

 22. When the questions require a prompt, spontaneous response from the respondent, the best method available is : (a) Structured- non-disguised mail method (b) Structured- non-disguised Personal method (c) Structured- non-disguised Telephone method, (d) None of the above

 23. The sampling method which is the least time and cost consuming out of those indicated below is : (a) Cluster Sampling (b) Area Sampling (c) Systematic Sampling (d) Quota Sampling.

 24. A sampling unit is necessarily a part of : .(a) The sampling frame (b) The Population (c) The sample (d) The Target Market

 25. Simple Random Sampling should always yield more precise estimates than Cluster Sampling in Consumer Research studies. This statement is : (a) Always True .(b) False (c) Partly True (d) Cant say