Research Methodology in Business: A Starter’s Guide

Abstract

A cardinal requisite of successful research lies in the proper selection of the research methodology applied to achieveresearch objectives using the available resources. In addition to acquiring sufficient knowledge of their specificresearch topic, researchers are urged to develop good understanding of alternative research methodologies at theirdisposal to be able to identify the best-suited methods to address the research question. This, however, often poses achallenge for novice researchers who face difficulty in grasping the vast methodology landscape and itsencompassing array of debates. The purpose of this paper is to provide new researchers with a comprehensiveoverview of the main elements of research methodology, particularly in the business domain. After a briefintroduction, the paper introduces the principles of research philosophy, approaches, and methods, and explains thedifferent paradigmatic stances adopted by researchers in the field. A number of mixed methods designs are thendiscussed to highlight the different means by which qualitative and quantitative research are combined. The finalsection presents sampling techniques then explores the most prominent data-collection tools employed in business,including interviews, questionnaires, and case studies. The paper aims to offer business postgraduate studentsembarking on their research journeys with a useful summary that would guide in them navigating the methodologicalaspect of their research work.