RESEARCH

METHODOLOGY

Dr.P.Suganthi,
Online MBA Batch
Webinar Session PPT
Dr Suganthi P, SoM, SASTRA Deemed
University, Thanjavur
31.01.2025
CONTENTS
Report Design, Writing and Ethics in Business Research

The purpose and context of report writing

The role of audience – Readability –
comprehension – Tone
Different forms of research report
The need for executive summary in a research
report
Research report format ,chapterization and its
contents
Research report effective graphical and oral
presentation
Ethical behavior of research
Subjectivity and objectivity in research
 The purpose and context of report writing

Purpose of Research Report:

• To present research results persuasively.
• Evolving theories or principles based on
findings.
• Facilitating the exchange of ideas and
thoughts.
Need forspecific
• Enabling Research Report:
recommendations for future
• Reveals
actions. the researcher's abilities and skills.
• Highly valuable for policy formulators,
practitioners, and the general public.
 The purpose and context of report writing
Essential for knowledge dissemination and
contributing to existing literature.
• Presents the problem, methods,
Function findings, conclusions, and
recommendations.
s of • Serves as a reference material
for future use.
Researc • Evaluates the quality of the
research project.
h Report • Demonstrates and evaluates the
Qualities • researcher's
Clarity, ability.
Continuity, Consistency,
Brevity, and Readability.
of a • Interest and Appeal, Judicious Selection
of Materials.
Good • Avoidance of personal opinion, focusing
on central ideas, and proper
Report referencing
Steps in Report Writing:
• Plan the project with a defined target and
completion date.
• Schedule report writing time in advance.
• Organize data, documents, and bibliography
according to the report's structure.
• Develop an outline based on main and sub-points.
• Draft the report, detailing procedures, analysis
techniques, findings, and suggestions.
• Review the rough report, revising based on careful
reading and external feedback.
• Rewrite the report with corrections and revisions.
• Create a final bibliography.
Components of a
Research Report:
• Prefatory Items:
• Title Page, Researcher’s
Declaration, Certificate of
Research Guide,
Acknowledgments.
• Contents:
• List of Abbreviations, Tables,
Figures, Appendices.
THE ROLE OF AUDIENCE – READABILITY – COMPREHENSION –
TONE

Role of Audience: Readability: Comprehension: Tone:

Define
Highlight the Define tone as
Emphasize the readability as
importance of the writer's
significance of the ease with
ensuring your attitude
tailoring your which written
audience toward the
message to information
comprehends subject and
the intended can be
the message. audience.
audience. understood.
Consider the Use examples
use of clear and analogies Stress the
Acknowledge language, to simplify need to adapt
diverse concise complex the tone to the
audience sentences, concepts for audience and
needs and and better purpose.
expectations. appropriate understanding
vocabulary. . Considerate,
confident, and
professional
tones enhance
effective
communicatio
n.
DIFFERENT FORMS OF
RESEARCH REPORT

Technical Popular
Report Report
TECHNICAL REPORT
Major Findings and Contents:
• Concise summary of key discoveries.

Nature of Research Work:

• General objectives, formulation of operational problems, working
hypothesis, analysis type, and data requirements.
Research Methodology:
• Description of methods used, including limitations like sample
size and selection.
Data Analysis:
• Examination of data sources, characteristics, and limitations.
Evaluation of suitability of secondary data and detailed
description of survey data collection.
TECHNICAL REPORT
Presentation of Findings:
• Main study findings supported by data, presented through tables and charts.

Main Conclusion:
• Summarizes the main findings of the research.

Bibliography:
• Lists main sources of secondary data.

Technical Appendices:

Includes technical details like questionnaires, mathematical

derivations, and analysis techniques.
POPULAR REPORT:
Major Findings and Conclusions:
• Focus on practical implications and findings.

Follow-Up Action:
• Suggests practical actions based on study findings.

Objectives of the Study:

• Presents the problem along with specific study objectives.

Methodology:
• Describes methods and techniques, providing a short review of data used.

Results:
• Main body of the report presented in clear, non-technical terms with illustrations.

Appendices:
• Detailed information on methods used, forms, etc. (may be excluded for general public
reports).
THE NEED FOR EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
The executive summary serves as a crucial component in reports,
offering a concise overview of key elements.
It efficiently communicates the report's purpose, key findings,
and recommendations to busy executives.
By condensing complex information into easily digestible points,
it supports informed decision-making without requiring a deep
dive into the full
The executive report. aligns with strategic objectives,
summary
enhances professionalism, and serves as a strategic
communication tool within
Providing a snapshot of thethe organization.
research, it allows for customization,
highlights risks and opportunities, and fosters continuous
improvement
In essence, thebased on feedback.
executive summary is a time-saving, decision-
supporting, and efficiency-boosting tool catering to the needs of
executives in the business world.
 RESEARCH REPORT FORMAT ,
CHAPTERIZATION AND ITS CONTENTS
• Defines research objectives, problem statement, and provides an
Introduction: overview.

Literature Review: • Surveys existing research to contextualize the study and identify gaps.

Research • Details the methods, tools, and techniques used for data collection

Methodology: and analysis.

Data Analysis: • Presents findings, supported by tables, charts, and detailed analyses.

• Interpretation of results, comparison with literature, and addressing

Discussion: research questions.

Conclusion: • Summarizes key findings and their implications.

Recommendations: • Provides actionable suggestions based on research outcomes.

References: • Lists all sources and literature cited in the report.

Appendices: • Includes additional details, data, or supplementary material.

RESEARCH REPORT EFFECTIVE
GRAPHICAL AND ORAL PRESENTATION
Effectively presenting research findings through graphical and oral means is essential for
maximizing impact.
Graphical elements, such as charts and graphs, enhance data visualization, making
complex information more accessible.
Utilizing clear and visually appealing visuals aids in conveying key messages.

Oral presentation skills are equally crucial, as they allow researchers to communicate
insights persuasively.
A compelling oral presentation includes a clear structure, engaging delivery, and
effective use of language.
Tailoring the presentation to the audience's level of understanding ensures
comprehension and engagement.
In summary, combining well-designed graphical elements with strong oral
communication skills amplifies the impact of research reports.
This dual approach not only facilitates better understanding but also leaves a lasting
impression on the audience, contributing to the overall success of the research
dissemination process.
ETHICAL BEHAVIOR OF RESEARCH
Ethical conduct in research is indispensable for upholding the credibility and integrity of
scientific endeavors.

Researchers are entrusted with the responsibility to ensure respect for participants,
maintain honesty and transparency in reporting, avoid plagiarism, strive for objectivity,
handle data with precision, and adhere to publication ethics.

Social responsibility and the protection of vulnerable populations further underscore the
ethical framework.

Continuous reflection on ethical considerations and compliance with regulations form the
bedrock of responsible research practices.

Upholding these principles not only ensures the reliability of research outcomes but also
fosters trust within the scientific community and contributes to the positive impact of
research on society.
SUBJECTIVITY AND OBJECTIVITY IN RESEARCH
Subjectivity and objectivity are critical concepts in research,
influencing the way information is gathered, interpreted, and
presented.

Subjectivity in Research:
Subjectivity refers to the personal biases, perspectives, and
interpretations that researchers bring to the study.
It is often influenced by individual experiences, beliefs, and
emotions. In subjective research, the researcher's feelings, opinions,
and values play a significant role in shaping the research process and
outcomes.
Subjectivity is common in qualitative research methods, such as
interviews and case studies, where the researcher's involvement is
inherent, and the goal is to understand the subjective experiences of
participants.
SUBJECTIVITY AND
OBJECTIVITY IN RESEARCH
Objectivity in Research:
Objectivity, on the other hand, implies a neutral and unbiased approach
to research.
It strives to eliminate personal biases and emotions, emphasizing the use
of empirical evidence and measurable data. In objective research, the goal
is to maintain a certain level of detachment from the subject matter,
focusing on facts and observable phenomena.
Quantitative research methods, such as experiments and surveys, often
aim for objectivity by relying on statistical analyses and replicable
procedures.
 Balancing Subjectivity and Objectivity
While complete objectivity may be challenging to achieve due to the inherent
influence of researchers' perspectives, a balance between subjectivity and
objectivity is often sought.

Mixed-methods research, combining both qualitative and quantitative

approaches, allows researchers to gather comprehensive insights.

Additionally, establishing clear research protocols, using standardized

measurement tools, and employing peer review processes contribute to
enhancing objectivity in research.

In summary, subjectivity and objectivity represent two ends of a spectrum in

research methodology.

The choice between them depends on the research question, methodology, and the
goals of the study, with many researchers striving to strike a thoughtful balance
between personal insights and empirical evidence.
Thank you