Management Final Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Management Final Project - Essay Example The project showed the new shopping cart concepts that embedded the issues including shopping behavior, maneuverability, cost maintenance, and child safety. These concepts aimed at improving the management skills where both the business and the customers were the centers of interest (Kelly, 1999). As the business was reducing the loss of its fixed assets (the cart trolleys), the customer values and interest were also considered whereby despite the crewed developing in the shaping both the cost and customer safety were never compromised. Moreover, the show concentrated on the design process of the IDEO that reflected multidisciplinary team brainstormed, prototyped, and research the gathered the feedback from those who used the design. These applications deployed by the design indicated that good managerial skills that included teamwork as well as the incorporating the end users in the development and improvement of services and products (Kelly, 1999). Teamwork allows acquiring extensi ve knowledge and skills in design products and services that will meet the end users’ desire. Moreover, teamwork allows extensive innovation thereby increasing the production and sale of the intended service or product in the market line. Seeking for the views of customers within the intended product and service line is also an effective business management skill since it allows the business to design products and services that will meet the needs and wants of customers (Kelly, 1999). Notably, meeting the needs of customers within every product and service line often improves sales and profitability in the same sense (Kelly, 1999). Moreover, seeking and using feedback from the targeted customers is essential in that it is a means of improvement of services and products especially in areas that customers feel unsatisfied. It should be noted that the current business management skills are customer centered; the production of goods and services are to meet the needs of the custo mer. In this sense, the application of this design in businesses will improve businesses applying the same since they will be having an extended and elaborate market (Kelly, 1999). Additionally, every proper business management skill usually values the safety of its customer in line with production and service delivery and the IDEO’s design have ensured that child safety is a factor in their production and service delivery in the cart shopping. Another essential management skill demonstrated in case video clip, the continual improvement. Every business must give room for product and or service improvement. In the case of IDEO’s shopping cart design, the continual improvement is demonstrated where it is vivid that the design lacks some steel frame bottom and side to detect theft. However, it substituted plastic baskets thereby increasing shoppers’ flexibility and helped in protecting goods as well as providing a means of promoting the brand awareness (Kelly, 1999 ). The design also incorporated the auxiliary services that usually aim at maintaining customers to the services and products offered or acting as a means of customer attracting other customers to such news services and products. The dual child seat with a swing up tray provides a play surface and a secure spot for placing a bunch of carnations or cup of coffee. Additionally, seeking for the addition information through secondary research enable the IDEO shopping cart des

Effects of Cannabis on Cognition Research Paper - 2

Effects of Cannabis on Cognition - Research Paper Example The use of the drug is common among the young and productive age bracket that tend to abuse the substance for leisure or relaxation. Ideally, the effects of the substance may be extensive as they may include loss of concentration and diminished planning abilities.   According to a study by Grant et al (2011), volunteers within the study exhibited no prior disorder except after indulging in the use of cannabis substance. The study sought to establish the effects of the substance among young people over a period of one week and a year. The findings established that the use of the substance immensely affected decision-making and planning abilities for this age bracket (Grant et al, 2012). This was because of the using the drug at different intervals that in turn affected the neural functioning and decision making that led to the having problems with law authorities. Overly, the use of the drug reflects on the driving abilities of adolescents that in turn attract the charge of driving under the influence of an intoxicating substance. In addition, the study also proved the substance abuse had effects on the adolescents’ school performance hence increasing the number of school dropouts because of their limited productivity in school. Sequentially, the teenagers who were under the influence of the drug also portrayed withdrawal symptoms where they could not relate properly with their peers who were not indulging in the use of the drug.  In summary, the study showed that teenagers and young adults were more likely to indulge in the substance use more than any other age bracket because of their poor judgment and decision-making skills. Additionally, this age bracket is more susceptible to pressure from peers and influence on their behavior hence making them indulge in the use of the drug (Grant et al, 2012).  

Milnacipran Hydrochloride (MIL) Uses in Medicine

Milnacipran Hydrochloride (MIL) Uses in Medicine Milnacipran hydrochloride (MIL) is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It was originally developed and manufactured by Pierre Fabre Medicament in France, and was approved in that country as an antidepressant in 1997 [1]. It has since been approved for this indication in multiple countries and currently marketed for this indication in over 45 countries worldwide including several European countries. Cypress Bioscience bought the exclusive rights for approval and marketing of the drug for fibromyalgia purpose in the United States and Canada in 2003 from the manufacturer Pierre Fabre Laboratories [2-3]. In January 2009 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved MIL only for the treatment of fibromyalgia, making it the third medication approved for this purpose in the United States [4]. Some of the drug information and properties are listed below: 2.1 Physical and chemical properties Chemical name : MIL is chemically designated as (1R,2S)-rel-2(Amino-methyl)-N,N-diethyl-1-phenyl-cyclopropanecarboxamide hydrochloride and its structure is shown in Figure 2.1. Synonyms : F-2207; Ixel; Toledomin; Dalcipran; Milnacipran Hydrochloride. Empirical formula : C15H22N2O. HCl Molecular weight : 282.8 CAS No. : 101152-94-7 Melting point: 179Â °C Physical description : MIL is a white to off-white, odourless, crystalline powder. Dissociation constant (pKa) : 9.65 Permeability coefficient (Log P) : 1.42 Solubility : It is freely soluble in aqueous buffers over the entire physiological pH range. It is freely soluble in water, methanol, ethanol, chloroform, and methylene chloride and sparingly soluble in diethyl ether [5-6]. BCS class : Class I, highly soluble and highly permeable drug. 2.2 Pharmacological properties Mechanism of Action Milnacipran blocks 5-HT and norepinephrine (NE) reuptake into the neuron, thereby increasing 5-HT and NE extracellular concentrations. This activates 5-HT and NE auto and heteroreceptors culminating in a decreasing 5-HT and NE neuronal firing rates, synthesis, and release. On Chronic use MIL continues to block 5-HT and NE transporters without desensitization, but 5-HT and NE auto- and heteroreceptors are desensitized and thus, down regulated. Firing rates of 5-HT and NE return to normal, and the amount of 5-HT and NE released per nerve impulse is increased [7]. MIL has no significant affinity for ÃŽ ±- and ÃŽ ²-adrenergic, muscarinic (M1-5), histamine (H1-4), dopamine (D1-5), opiate, benzodiazepine, or ÃŽ ³-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. MIL has no significant affinity for Ca2+, K+, Na+ and Cl– channels and does not inhibit the activity of human monoamine oxidases (MAO-A and MAO-B) or acetylcholinesterase [8-9]. One of the main differences between the various antidepressants and MIL is its equal preference and activity on the uptake of NE and 5-HT. The exact mechanism of the central pain inhibitory action and effectiveness in fibromyalgia symptom are unknown in Humans [10-11]. 2.3 Therapeutic Indications Treatment of depression Major Depression, also known as major depressive disorder or unipolar depression, is a highly debilitating disorder that has been estimated to affect up to 21% of the world population [12]. It is a CNS disorder characterised by a combination of symptoms that interfere with a persons ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy pleasurable activities [7,12]. Despite the advances in the treatment of depression with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), there continue to be many unmet clinical needs with respect to both efficacy and side effects. These needs range from efficacy in treatment resistant patients, to improved onset, to reductions in side effects such as emesis or sexual dysfunction. To address these needs, there are numerous combination therapies and novel targets that have been identified that may demonstrate improvements in one or more areas [12]. Management of Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex syndrome characterized by chronic musculoskeletal pain which is often accompanied by multiple other symptoms, including fatigue, sleep disturbances, decreased physical functioning, and dyscognition. Due to these multiple symptoms, as well as high rates of comorbidity with other related disorders, patients with FM have a reduced quality of life. The reduced serotonin and norepinephrine levels observed in patients with FM suggest that medications which increase the levels of these neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), may have clinically beneficial effects in FM and other chronic pain conditions. MIL is an SNRI that has been approved for the management of FM [8, 13]. MIL was viewed as a wonderful new weapon in the fight against both depression and pain. Treatment of Lupus Recent studies proved that MIL is also useful against lupus. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system turns against the body and harms healthy cells and tissues. It is a rheumatic disease which can affect many parts of the body including the joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, heart or brain. Some of the most common symptoms include extreme fatigue, painful or swollen joints, unexplained fever, skin rashes, and kidney problems. Scientific evidence indicates that lupus is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Lupus is characterized by periods of increased or intensified disease activity, called flares [14-15]. Tolerability and side effects MILhas demonstrated numerous adverse reactions in human clinical trials with tolerability decreasing with an increasing dose. In the placebo controlled trials in patients with fibromyalgia, the most frequent spontaneously reported adverse events were as follows: nausea, palpitations, headache, constipation, increased heart rate and hyperhidrosis, vomiting, and dizziness [16]. Discontinuation due to adverse reactions was generally more common among patients treated with 200 mg/day compared to 100 mg/day. The adverse effects can originate from the fluctuation in the plasma drug concentrations of an active substance following administration and subsequent metabolism and/or elimination from the body. Most of the reported adverse events were reduced or disappeared with the discontinuation of treatment [17]. 2.4 Pharmacokinetics The pharmacokinetic profile of MIL is as summarized in Table 2.1 [1,5]. Absorption MIL is well-absorbed after oral administration. Absolute bioavailability is about 85-90 %. It is not affected by food intake. The peak plasma concentration is about 120 ng/ml achieved in 2 hours after a single 50 mg dose. Inter-subject variability is low. Plasma concentrations are linearly proportional with dose over the range of single acute doses of 25 to 200 mg as shown in Table 2.2 [1,2]. Distribution Protein binding is low (13%) and not saturable. The volume of distribution of MIL is about 5 litre/kg with a total clearance of about 40 litre/hour. Renal and non-renal clearances are equivalent [1]. Metabolism MIL is metabolized mainly by conjugation (Glucoronisation). Active metabolites have been found at very low levels without clinical relevance. Cytochrome P450 2D6 is involved in the metabolism of many psychotropic drugs and its inhibition is frequently a cause of drug-drug interactions. This enzyme has no impact on the metabolism of MIL and no oxidative metabolites of MIL have been detected in humans [1-3]. The pharmacokinetics of MIL are not modified in subjects who are deficient in the CYP2D6 isoenzyme (slow sparteine-like metabolisers). Furthermore, MIL does not interfere in-vivo with other isoenzymes of cytochrome P450 [1, 18]. Elimination Plasma elimination half-life is about 8 hours. Elimination occurs mainly via the kidney with tubular secretion of the product in unchanged form. After repeated doses, MIL is totally eliminated in 2 to 3 days after termination of therapy. The liver and kidneys are both involved in the elimination of MIL as illustrated by renal and non-renal clearances with values of 23.8 Â ± 7.3 and 16.4 Â ± 3.1 l/h, respectively. This balance between renal and non-renal clearances may be an advantage in patients presenting with moderate renal insufficiency [3,5]. 2.5 Dosage and administration The recommended dose titration schedule for MIL is 12.5 mg once on Day 1, then 12.5 mg twice a day on Days 2-3, and then 25 mg twice a day on Days 4-7, and then 50 mg twice a day after Day 7. Recommended maintenance dose is 50 mg twice daily. In clinical trials, MIL was evaluated with a dose titration schedule. The daily dose may be increased to 200 mg (or 100 mg twice a day) based on individual response. Dosing should be adjusted in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl 2.6 Marketed formulations There are various brands of MIL are available with dose of 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg immediate release tablets or capsules as shown in Table 2.3 [19-21].

Mending the Transatlantic Rift Essay -- Essays Papers

Mending the Transatlantic Rift The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 ushered in an era of dramatic change for foreign policy and the international system. Most obviously, the United States’ sense of invulnerability eroded as an acute awareness to the perils of terrorism gripped the American public. In American foreign policy, the dominant paradigms evolved. Whereas the Cold War notion of the centrality of powerful nation-states had helped order the Bush administration’s outlook before the attacks, the new paradigms explicitly accounted for the importance of non-state actors and rogue regimes as the salient elements of American foreign policy. In emphasizing rogue states, President George W. Bush focused on regime change in Iraq and ultimately decided to invade Iraq despite the opposition of important allies and the lack of authorization from the United Nations Security Council. The war in Iraq, along with an array of diplomatic and policy differences between the United States and its Eur opean allies, ultimately produced notable divisions in the transatlantic relationship. An analysis of the events and conceptual divergences that contributed to this rift renders a portrait of U.S.-European relations in which real rather than cosmetic differences separate the two sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Nonetheless, enduring commonalities and the realities of the present geopolitical situation leave hope for improvements in the relationship. In the end, mending the transatlantic rift will require the United States to exhibit a genuine commitment to diplomacy with Europe and engagement with the world’s most pressing issues. THE RELATIONSHIP Historically, the relationship between the United States and its European allie... ...ember/October 2002. Kagan, Robert. â€Å"America’s Crisis of Legitimacy,† Foreign Affairs, March/April 2004. Mandelbaum, Michael. â€Å"The Inadequacy of American Power,† Foreign Affairs, September/October 2002. The National Security Strategy of the United States of America, September 2002. < http://www.whitehouse.gov/nsc/nss.html> Nye, Jr., Joseph S. â€Å"U.S. Power and Strategy After Iraq,† Foreign Affairs, July/August 2003. O’Hehir, Andrew. â€Å"Welcome to the New Cold War,† Salon.com, November 15, 2004. Pond, Elizabeth. â€Å"European Shock and Awe,† Washington Quarterly, Summer 2003. Project for the New American Century World Press Review. â€Å"We Are All Americans,† November 2001. < http://www.worldpress.org/1101we_are_all_americans.htm>

Islam – Hajj

Hajj Overview oPilgrimage is the supreme prayer for forgiveness of sins committed and the ultimate preparation for eternity oPilgrimage rituals which must be performed, eg circumambulation of the Ka’ba oThe rites of the Hajj symbolise the essential concepts of Islam and commemorate the trials of the Prophet Ibrahim and his family oHajj: The annual, week-long pilgrimage to Mecca (in modern-day Saudi Arabia), which is the fifth pillar of faith and is therefore an obligation as it is prescribed in the Qur’an.The complete Hajj occurs two months and ten days after Ramadan ends and culminates with ‘Id al-Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice). oIhram: The white garments are symbolic of human equality and unity before God, since all pilgrims are dressed similarly. Money and status are no longer a factor for the pilgrims— the equality of each person before God becomes foremost. oBefore they leave they must pay their debts, provide for for Hajj nd provide for any family t hat may be left behind. oThe rituals occur in and around Mecca. Before commencing Hajj or entering the holy area of Makkah the pilgrams must prepare themselves for the physical and spiritual journey ahead. This includes †¢Formal washing of the complete body †¢Making intention †¢Putting on the clothing consisting of two seamless pieces of white cloth for males. Females can wear what they like, provided its modest and covers body. †¢Attaining a state of Ihram, a state of purity, peace and honesty > refraining from sex, flirting, lustful thoughts, wearing shoes or socks. Reciting a prayer that the Hajj is for Allah alone > â€Å"here I am responding to your call O Allah. I am responding to your call. † oThen begins the physical journey of the pilgrim in Makkah. One that will take several days to complete. Significance oMuslims believe that the rites of Hajj were designed by God and taught by the Prophet Muhammad. oThe Hajj is designed to develop God conscious ness and a sense of spiritual rebirth. oIt is also believed to be an opportunity to seek forgiveness of sins accumulated throughout life. Prophet Muhammad had said that a person who performs Hajj properly ‘will return as a newly born baby [free of all sins]’. oIt is also an opportunity for Muslims from all over the world to come together to worship the One God. How Hajj Expresses the Belief of Islam oIncorpoates and expresses all the main articles of faith of Islam (beliefs about Allah, his messengers, Muhammad, the Qur’an, angels, Adam and eve the devil, life, death and the Day of Judgment to come. oTradition has it that Adam and Eve were forgiven by Allah near Mount of Mercy.In gratitude Adam built the first Ka’ba but this was washed away in the great flood. oIn the Qur’an there are many references to the Hajj and pilgrimage is mentioned many times. In fact Sura 22 is titled Al-Hajj †¢Ã¢â‚¬Å"Proclaim the pilgrimage to the people. They will co me to you on foot and on every lean camel, they shall come from every deep ravine† Significance of Hajj for the individual and the community o‘The reward for an accepted Hajj is nothing less than paradise’ (Hadith) oMakes present the central beliefs of a muslims religion. It is an obligatory pilgrimage oThey get to see the very places where the Prophet Muhammad lived and to walk in his footsteps is inspirational and strengthening to faith oAn opportunity for spiritual rebirth and the removal of sins, to start again and ‘return like a newborn baby’ (Hadith) oThe rejection of Satan by stoning the three pillars is a physical act that reinforces a spiritual and psychological commitment to reject evil both now and into the future oThe pilgrims state of Ihram is one of purity and humility.Here they are at peace with Allah, with themselves, with other Muslims and with all of creation. This memory will stay with them and they will try to recreate this in thei r everyday lives. oWithin Hajj the unity and universality of Islam are highlighted and strengthened. oHajj is the largest annual peace gathering in the world with over 2 million people gathering each year to pray together and be at peace with each other and with creation. oHajj reminds all Muslims of the Day of Judgement when all will assemble and be judged on their intentions.Conclusion Islam, the world’s second most followed religion can be summed up in the two sentences: ‘There is no god but God’ and ‘Muhammad is the messenger of God’. Everyone and everything depends upon Allah and it is through the guidance of the Qur’an and the example set by the Prophet’s life that Muslims cultivate an understanding of God and surrender themselves to the will of God. The relationship between the individual and God and with the community is expressed in the living out of the five pillars and following Shari‘a.Throughout its history, there hav e been shifts in how Islam views signifi cant people and schools of thought, and the modern world has brought new challenges to Islamic jurisprudence in regard to ethical issues. Muslims living in Australia have not always found it easy to ‘live out’ their religion according to Shari‘a and have had to confront misconceptions about their beliefs and practices. Today, however, the practices of Islam are a normal part of Australia’s religious landscape.

Amity Assignment

`qwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnmqwertyui opasdfghjklzxcvbnmqwertyuiopasdfgh jklzxclzxcvb Market Research tyuiop Amity University yuiopas dfghjklfghjklzx cvbnmqvbnmq wertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnmqwertyuio pasdfghjklzuiopasdfghj klzxcvbnmqwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbn mqwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnmqwerty uiopasdfghjklzxcvbnmqwertyuiopasdf ghjklzxcvbnmqwertyuiopasdfghjklzxc vbnmqwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnmrty uiopasdfghjklzxcvbnmqwertyuiopasdf ghjklzxcvbnmqwertyuiopasdfghjklzxc vbnmqwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnmqw ertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnmqwertyuiop asdfghjklzxcvbnmqwertyuiopasdfghjkl | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |Preface | | | | | |Research acts as a platform for all the statistical manipulations and filtration of data and interpreting the results thereof, solving the defined problem to be | | |search upon.The role of measurement and statistics in social science research is treated sensitively and competently. | | |The term Research basically refers to search of knowledge is widely used in the area of Academics and various Industries as well. Our brain starts working and we | | |feel that it is something related to finding new areas, collecting all related information’s and preparing a consolidated report.As the management | | |students we are expected to have good knowledge and practice of these topics. | | |Hence before going into the technical knowledge of these topics let’s understand the basic meaning of the terms Research Methods.Research Methods includes the | | |concepts as they relate to a particular discipline or field of inquiry is a collection of theories, concepts or ideas; comparative study of different approaches; and| | |critique of the individual methods | | | | | | | | |Research methodology, as introduced in this book, is a means to understand the ways in which social science research produces multiple accounts of the world. | | |Further, methodology specifies how the researcher may go about practically studying whatever he or she believes can be known. | | |Regarding the organization, the study material consists of 8 chapters, well arranged in a coherent manner with an intention to serve as a study material for MBA | | |students.The different sections of this study material are: | | | | | | | | |Introduction to Research Methods, which basically describes the role of Research, the steps in the process considered carrying out a research, the different types of| | |research and brief information about ethics of a good research. Research Problem and Research Design, describing the concept, purpose and importance of a research | | |problem, the steps involved in defining and selecting a research problem; meaning, need, features and elements of a Research Design and the various types.Methods | | |of Data Collection, giving out the introduction of two types of data-Primary and Secondary, their collection procedure and the different methods and techniques | | |used in their collection. Data Processing and Analysis develops the understanding of collection of data, its arrangement and analysis. Measurement | | |and Scaling Techniques describes various types of measurement scales with the important scale construction techniques. Sampling Design helps to understand the | | |concepts of sampling and types of Sampling. Testing of Hypothesis gives the detailed concept about developing a hypothesis, its testing using various tests and | | |concluding the final result. Report Writing briefs various points to be kept in mind while compiling a report. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |2 | | Index Market ResearchADL-10 |Sl. No. |Chapter |Page No. | | | | |1 |Introduction to Research Methods |4 | | |Research Problem and Research | | |2 |Design |11 | | | | | |3 |Methods of Data Collection |22 | |4 |Data Processing and Analysis |30 | |5 |Measurement and Scaling Technique |38 | |6 |Sampling Design |50 | |7 |Testing of Hypotheses |68 | |8 |Report Preparation |93 | |9 |Key to th e End Chapter Quizzes |98 | | |Bibliography | | |10 | |99 | 3 Market ResearchADL-10 Chapter 1 Introduction to Research Methods Contents: 1. 1 Role of Research In Business Decision‘s 1. 2 Research Process 1. 2. 1.Selecting a Topic 1. 2. 2. Literature Search 1. 2. 3. Discussion with â€Å"Informants and Interested Parties† 1. 2. 4. Sampling 1. 2. 5. Formulating your hypothesis 1. 2. 6. Questionnaire Design 1. 2. 7. Fieldwork 1. 2. 8. Data Processing 1. 2. 9. Statistical Analysis (Hypotheses Testing) 1. 2. 10. Assembly of Results 1. 2. 11. Writing up The Results 1. 3Types of Research 1. 3. 1 Exploratory Research 1. 3. 2 Descriptive Research 1. 3. 3 Analytical Research 1. 3. 4 Causal Research 1. 3. 5 Quantitative Research 1. 3. 6 Qualitative Research 1. 3. 7 Conceptual Research 1. 3. 8 Modeling Research 1. 4 Criteria of good research 1. 5 Ethics of Research 4 | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | | | | | | | |1. 1 Role of Research in Business Decision‘s | | | | | |R esearch is a process of using the methods of science to the art of management for decision- making. Every organization operates under some degree of uncertainty. | | |This uncertainty cannot be eliminated completely, although it can be minimized with the help of research methods. Research is particularly important in the decision | | |making process of various business organizations.To choose the best line of action (in the light of growing competition and increasing uncertainty); it is very | | |important that one should be able to gather all the data, analyze it and reach to the appropriate decisions. Research in common context refers to a search for | | |knowledge. It can also be defined as scientific and systematic search for gaining information and knowledge on a specific topic or phenomena. In | | |management research is extensively used in various areas. Research provides a base for your business sound decision – making. There are three parts involved in any | | |of yo ur systematic finding: Implicit question posed, explicit answer proposed and Collection, analysis, and interpretation of the information leading from the | | |question to answer Illustration. Research comprises of defining and redefining problems, formulating hypothesis or suggested solutions; making | | |deductions and reaching conclusions; and at last carefully testing the conclusions to determine whether they fit the formulating hypothesis?. | | | | | | | | |Market Research has become an important part in management decision-making. Marketing research is a critical part of such a Market intelligence system; it| | |helps to improve management decision making by providing relevant, accurate, & timely information. Every decision poses unique needs for information gathered | | |through marketing research.Thus, we can say that marketing research is the function that links the Consumer, Customer, and the public to the marketer | | |through information used to identify and define market ing opportunities and problems; Generate, Refine, and evaluate marketing actions and monitor marketing | | |performance; improve understanding of marketing as a process. | | | | | | | | | | | |1. Research Process | | | | | |1. 2. 1. Selecting A Topic: Topic is related to the area of interest. | | | | | |1. 2. 2. Literature Search: A researcher should be aware of the current research in the related area and further scope of expansion. | | | | | |1. 2. 3. Discussion with â€Å"Informants and Interested Parties† | | | | | |1. 2. 4.Sampling (described in Chapter VI) | | | | | |1. 2. 5. Formulating Your Hypothesis (described in Chapter VII) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |5 | | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |1. 2. 6. Questionnaire Design -Translating the broad objectives of the study into questions that will obtain the necessary information. | | | | | |1. 2. 7. Fieldwork – Collection of data through questionnaire or interview | | | | | |1. 2. 8. Data Processing à ¢â‚¬â€œ coding and inputting the responses | | | | | |1. 2. . Statistical Analysis (hypotheses testing) | | | | | |1. 2. 10. Assembly of Results | | | | | |1. 2. 11. Writing up the Results- drawing conclusions / interpretations and relating the findings to other research. You will have been given separate notes on report | | |writing. | | | | | |1. Types of Research | | |A research can be classified as follows | | | | | |1. 3. 1 Exploratory Research | | | | | |1. 3. 2 Descriptive Research | | | | | |1. 3. Analytical Research | | | | | |1. 3. 4 Causal Research | | | | | |1. 3. 5 Quantitative Research | | | | | |1. 3. 6 Qualitative Research | | | | | |1. 3. Conceptual Research | | | | | |1. 3. 8 Modeling Research | | | | | | | | |1. 3. 1 Exploratory Research: – The Exploratory Research structures and identifies new problems; it is an initial research which is commonly unstructured, ? informal? | | |research that is undertaken to gain background information about the gen eral nature of the research problem, without having any specific end-objective.It is | | |usually conducted when the researcher does not know much about the problem and needs additional information or desires new or more recent information. A research | | |that analyzes the data and explores the possibility of obtaining as many as relationships as possible between different variables of the study. | | |Ex: – Literature Survey, Experience survey. | | | | | | | | |1. 3. 2 Descriptive Research: – Descriptive research is more rigid than exploratory research, this research carries out specific objectives and hence it results to a| | |definite conclusion. Descriptive research is undertaken to provide answers to questions of who, what, where, when, and how – but not why.For example, it describes | | |users of a product, determines the proportion of the population that uses a product, or predicts future demand for a product or describes the happening of a certain | | | | | | | | | | | |6 | | | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |phenomenon. As opposed to exploratory research, if you are doing descriptive research you should define questions, people surveyed, and the method of analysis prior | | |to beginning data collection. | | | | | | | |1. 3. 3 Analytical research: – This type of research is used where information is already available, and analyzes these to make a critical evaluation of the material. | | |Analytical research takes descriptive research one stage further by seeking to explain the reasons | | |behind a particular occurrence by discovering causal relationships. Once causal relationships have been discovered, the search then shifts to factors that can be | | |changed (variables) in order to influence the chain of causality.Typical questions in analytical research are: What factors might account for the high drop-out | | |rate on a particular degree programme? | | |Typical methods used in analytical research include: | | | | | | | | |[pic]Case studies [pic]Observation [pic]Historical analysis [pic]Attitude surveys [pic]Statistical surveys | | | | | |1. 3. 4 Causal Research: – Casual Research seeks to find cause and affect relationships between variables.It accomplishes this goal through laboratory and field | | |experiments. | | | | | | | | |1. 3. 5 Quantitative Research: – This research answers the questions about data that can be measured in terms of quantity or amount. It is applicable to | | |phenomena that can be expressed in terms of quantity. | | | | | | | | |1. 3. 6 Qualitative Research: – This research involves analysis of data such as words (e. g. , from interviews), pictures (e. g. , video), or objects (e. g. , an | | |artifact).Answer questions about nature of phenomena in order to describe phenomena and understand it from the participant‘s point of view. | | | | | | | | |1. 3. 7 Conceptual Research: – This type of research is related to some ideas or th eory and generally used by philosopher. | | | | | | | | |1. 3. 8 Modelling Research: – This type of research is related to business situation where business situation is formulated into different types of model. | |Ex:-Mathematical model, simulation models | | | | | | | | |1. 4 Criteria of good research | | | | | | | | |One thing that is important is the research work and the studies meet on the common ground of the scientific method. One expects scientific research to satisfy the | | |following criteria. | | | | |1. The purpose of research should be clearly defined and common concepts be used. | | | | | | | | |7 | | | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |2.The research procedure used should be described in sufficient detail to permit another researcher to repeat the research for further advancement. | | |3. The procedural design of the research should be carefully planned to yield results that are as objective as possible. | | |4. The researcher should report with comple te frankness, flaws in procedural designs and estimate their effects upon the findings. | | |5. The analysis of data should be sufficiently adequate to reveal its significance and the methods of analysis used should be appropriate. | | |6. Conclusion should be considered to those justified by the data of the research and limited to those for which the data provide an adequate basis. | | |7.Greater confidence in research is warranted if the researcher is experienced, has a good reputation in research. | | | | | |In other words we can state the qualities of a good research as under: | | | | | | | | |1. Good research is systematic: it means that research is structured with specified steps to be taken in a specific sequence in accordance with well defined set of | | |rules. | | |2.Good research is logical: this implies that research is guided by the rules of logical reasoning and logical process of induction and deduction are of great | | |value in carrying out research. | | |3. Good r esearch is empirical: it implies that research is related basically to one or more aspects of real situation and deals with concrete data that provides a | | |basis for external validity to research results. | | |4. Good research is replicable: this characteristic allows research results to be verified by replicating the study and thereby building a sound basis for | | |decisions. | | | | | |1. Ethics of Research | | | | | | | | |As a profound social activity, research connects us to those who will use it, to those whose research we used, through them, to the research that our sources used; | | |Hence beyond technique, we need to think about ethics of civil communication. In addition to construction of bonds within any community, ethics deal with a range of | | |moral and immoral choices; Research challenges us to define individual moral principles; Academic researchers are less tempted to sacrifice principle for a| | |gain than commercial researchers. Plagiarism, claiming credit f or results of others, misreport sources or invent results, data with questionable accuracy, destroy | | |or conceal sources and data important for those who follow beyond simple moral. Do not to what we should affirmatively do, i. e. concern for the integrity of the | | |work of the community combined with narrow moral standards with the larger ethical dimension. Research done in the best interests of others is also in your own | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |8 | | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |End Chapter quizzes: | | | | | |1. Research, in management, forms a base for a) Gathering knowledge | | |b) Interpretation of information | | |c) Business decision-making d) Reaching to conclusions | | | | | | | | |2. In research process, what is the next step after Defining the problem definition? | |a) Determine the Sampling design b) Review of Literature | | |c) Hypotheses Testing | | |d) Data interpretation and analysis | | | | | | | | |3. A research that analyzes the data and explores the possibility of obtaining as many as relationships as possible between different variables of the study, is | | |known as: | | |a) Exploratory Research | |b) Analytical Research | | |c) Quantitative Research d) Descriptive Research | | | | | | | | |4. Observations, case studies and surveys are methods which are implemented under: | | |a) Quantitative Research b) Analytical Research | | |c) Conceptual Research d) Exploratory Research | | | | | | | | |5.Mathematical and simulation models are examples of: | | |a) Descriptive Research b) Conceptual Research c) Qualitative research | | |d) Modeling Research | | | | | | | | |6. Which statement, out of the following, doesn‘t cater to the Research Ethics? | | |a) Concern for the integrity of the work b) Define individual moral principles | | |c) Plagiarism | | |d) Work community with moral standards | | |7.Research, seeking to explain the reasons behind a particular occurrence by discovering causal r elationships, can be defined as: | | |a) Causal Research | | | | | |9 | | Market ResearchADL-10 b) Modeling Research c) Qualitative Research d) Analytical Research 8. A descriptive research describes the users of a product, determines the proportion of the population that uses a product, or predicts future demand for a product a) Strongly agree b) Agree c) Disagree d) Strongly disagree 9. Quantitative Research does not deal in: a) Figures b) Amount c) Relationships d) Quantities 10. Complete the statement:In addition to construction of bonds within any community, ethics deal with a range of a) Sacrifice people for a gain b) Claiming credit for results of others c) Moral and immoral choices d) Concealing objections that cannot be rebutted 10 Market ResearchADL-10 Chapter-II Research Problem and Research Design Contents: 2. 1 Introduction 2. 2 What is a Research Problem? 2. 3 How to Select the Problem 2. 3. 1 Sub-problem(S) 2. 3. 2 Statement of the Problem 2. 3. 3 Steps Involved In D efining A Problem 2. 4 Checklist for Testing the Feasibility of the Research Problem 2. 5 Meaning, Need and Features of a Research Design 2. 6 Different Research Designs 2. 6. 1 Research Design in case of Exploratory Research 2. 6. Research Design in case of Descriptive Research 2. 6. 2. 1 Longitudinal Studies 2. 6. 2. 2 Cross-sectional Studies 2. 6. 3 Research Design in case of Causal Research 11 | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |2. 1 Introduction | | | | | |Research forms a cycle.It starts with a problem and ends with a solution to the problem. The problem statement is therefore the axis which the whole research | | |revolves around, because it explains in short the aim of the research. | | | | | |2. 2 What is a Research Problem? | | | | | |A research problem is the situation that causes the researcher to feel apprehensive, confused and ill at ease. In other words, it refers to some difficulty which a | | |researcher experiences in context of a situation and wants to obtai n the solution for the same.It is the demarcation of a problem area within a certain context | | |involving the WHO or WHAT, the WHERE, the WHEN and the WHY of the problem situation. There are many problem situations that may give rise to research. Three sources | | |usually contribute to problem identification. Own experience or the experience of others may be a source of problem supply. A second source could be scientific | | |literature. You may read about certain findings and notice that a certain field was not covered. This could lead to a research problem. Theories could be a third | | |source. Shortcomings in theories could be researched. | | | | | |2. How to Select the Problem | | | | | |The prospective researcher should think on what caused the need to do the research (problem identification). The question that he/she should ask is: Are there | | |questions about this problem to which answers have not been found up to the present? Research originates from a need that arises . A clear distinction between the | | |PROBLEM and the PURPOSE should be made. The problem is the aspect the researcher worries about, thinks about, and wants to find a solution for.The purpose is to | | |solve the problem, i. e. , find answers to the question(s). If there is no clear problem formulation, the purpose and methods are meaningless. | | | | | |Keep the following in mind: | | | | | | | | |[pic] Outline the general context of the problem area. | | |[pic] Highlight key theories, concepts and ideas current in this area. | | |[pic] What appear to be some of the underlying assumptions of this area? pic] Why are these issues identified important? | | |[pic] What needs to be solved? | | |[pic] Read the subject to get to know the background and to identify unanswered questions or controversies, and/or to identify the most significant issues for | | |further exploration. | | | | | |The research problem should be stated in such a way that it would lead to analytical thinking on t he part of the researcher with the aim of possible concluding | | |solutions to the stated problem. Research problems can be stated in the form of either questions or statements. | | | | | | | | | | |12 | | | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |[pic] The research problem should always be formulated grammatically correct and as completely as possible. You should bear in mind the wording (expressions) you| | |use. Avoid meaningless words. There should be no doubt in the mind of the reader what your intentions are. | |[pic] Demarcating the research field into manageable parts by dividing the main problem into sub- problems is of the utmost importance. | | | | | |2. 3. 1 Sub-problem(S) | | | | | | | | |Sub-problems are problems related to the main problem identified. Sub problems flow from the main problem and make up the main problem. It is the means to reach the| | |set goal in a manageable way and contribute to solving the problem. | | | | |2. 3. 2 Statement of the Problem | | | | | | | | |The statement of the problem involves the demarcation and formulation of the problem, i. e. , the WHO/ WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY. It usually includes the | | |statement of the hypothesis. | | | | | |2. 3. Steps involved in defining a Problem | | | | | | | | |1) Statement of a problem should be given in broad general way: For example in case of a social research it is advisable to perform some field operations, collect | | |the survey, study it, and then phrase the problem in operational terms. | | |2) Understanding the origin and the nature of the problem clearly: It is essential to know the point of origin of the problem and discuss the problem with those who | | |has a better knowledge of the concerned area. | | |3) Survey all the literature available and examine them before defining a research problem. | | |4) Finally rephrase the research problem in to a walking proposition. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |13 | | Market ResearchADL-10 2. 4 Checklist for Testing the Feasibility of the Research Problem | |YES |NO | | |Is the problem of current interest? Will the research results have social, educational or scientific value? | | | |1 | | | | |2 |Will it be possible to apply the results in practice? | | | |3 |Does the research contribute to the science of education? | | | |4 |Will the research opt new problems and lead to further research? | | | |5 |Is the research problem important? Will you be proud of the result? | | |6 |Is there enough scope left within the area of research (field of research)? | | | | |Can you find an answer to the problem through research? Will you be able to handle the research problem? | | | |7 | | | | |8 |Will it be practically possible to undertake the research? | | | |9 |Is the research free of any ethical problems and limitations? | | | |10 |Will it have any value? | | | | |Do you have the necessary knowledge and skills to do the research? Are you qualified to undertake the research? | | |11 | | | | | |Is the problem important to you and are you motivated to undertake the research? | | | |12 | | | | | |Is the research viable in your situation? Do you have enough time and energy to complete the project? | | | |13 | | | | |14 |Do you have the necessary funds for the research? | | | |15 |Will you be able to complete the project within the time available? | | | |Do you have access to the administrative, statistic and computer facilities the research necessitates? | | | |16 | | | | | |TOTAL: | | 2. 5 Meaning, Need and Features of a Research Design A research design is the plan or strategy, which helps in arranging the resources required for research purpose. It acts as a path or blueprint for the researcher. In other words, it is the advanced planning of the steps to be adapted for collection of relevant data and techniques to be used in their analysis keeping different time and budget constraint in mind.Along wi th the population to be surveyed, size of sample, tools for analyzing data, interpretation of data, it also includes the budget and the time constraints too. 14 | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |The Design decision is in respect to following terms: What is the study about? | | |Why to study a particular topic? Where the study will be conducted? Techniques to collect the relevant data? What will be the sample design? | | |How will the data be analyzed? What is the time required? What is the allocated Budget? | | | | |Need for Research Design: It helps for a smooth running of various research operations thereby making the research efficient, gaining maximum information with the | | |minimum expenditure of time, effort, and money. | | | | | |The Research Design is divided into following parts:- | | | | | |ResearchDesign | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |Operational Design | | |Sampling Design | | | | | |Observational Design | | |Statistical Design | | |(Sub-d ivisions of a Research Design) | | | | | |Sampling Design: It deals with method of selection of samples to be collected /observed for a given study. | | | | | |Observational Design: It deals with the constraints and exceptions under which the observations are to be made. | | | | | |Statistical Design: It deals with the editing, coding and analysis of the data gathered. | | | | | |Operational Design: It deals with the techniques by which the procedures specified in the above designs can be carried out. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |15 | | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | | | | | | | |Features of a Good Design | | | | | |It should define the objective of problem to be studied | | |It should minimize the biasness and maximize the reliability of data | | |It should give smallest experimental error | | |It should be flexible enough to permit the consideration of many different aspects of a phenomenon. | | | | | | | | | | |Elements of a Research Desi gn: | | | | | |The important elements of a research design are: | | |[pic] Introduction: The Research proposal should define the research problem and the researcher‘s | | |precise interest in studying it. In other words it deals with the scope of study. | | | | | | | |[pic] Statement of the problem: It includes the formulation of problem which actually explains the objective of research. | | | | | | | | |[pic] Literature Review: It includes a review of different literatures and articles related to objective | | |of study. It is performed to get all the information‘s and researches done on the topic earlier. | | |[pic] Scope of Study: A complete study of any problem is difficult to study as it would entail an overwhelming amount of data.Therefore, the scope and dimensions | | |of the study should be delimited with reference to its depth, length, and geographical area to be covered, reference period, respondents to be studied and many other| | |different issues. We shou ld consider the time frames decided for the study and should finish it within the same tome slot. | | | | | | | | |[pic] Objective of Study: The questions to which the researcher proposes to seek answers through the study, comes under objectives. It should be stated clearly. | | |For example: | | |I.To study the nature of †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ | | |II. To investigate the impact of †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. | | |III. To examine the nature of relation between †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ and †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ | | |IV. To identify the causes of †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ | | |The objective statements should not be vague like ? to explore unemployment in India? | | | | | | | | |[pic] Conceptual Model: After completing the above steps the researcher formulates and develops the structure of relationships among the variables under | | |investigation. | | | | | | | |[pic] Hypotheses: A hypothesis is a specific statement of prediction. They refer to different possible outcomes. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |16 | | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |[pic] Operational definition of concepts: It involves the different techniques used in exploratory and descriptive research in operational terms. | | |[pic] Significance of study: It is a careful statement of the value of the study and the possible applications of its findings which helps to justify purpose of | | |study, its importance and social relevance. | | | | | |[pic] Geographical area to be covered: The territorial area to be covered depends on the purpose, nature of study and availability of resources. It should | | |be decided and specified in the research plan. | | | | |[pic] Reference Period: This refers to the time period of which the data is analyzed. Also it depends on the availability of data. | | | | | |[pic] Sampling Plan: It is the study that requires collection of data fro m the fields, then we should decide the population to be selected for study and the | | |sampling design. | | | | | |[pic] Tools for Gathering data: Personal and Telephonic Interviews, Questionnaire, checklist are different tools for data collection. | | | | | | | | | | |[pic] Plan of Analysis: This includes the statistical techniques used for editing, coding and analysis of data. | | | | | |[pic] Chapter Scheme: The chapter scheme of report or dissertation should be prepared to give the outlines and the studies of the research conducted. | | | | | |[pic] Time Budget: The time period of research should be decided in advance and the research work should not exceed the time limits. This leads to loss of | | |resources and extra cost is involved. | | | | |[pic] Financial Budget: The cost of the project includes major categories like salary, printing, stationery, postage, travel expenses etc. | | | | | |2. 6 Different Research Designs: | | | | | | | | |2. 6. Research Design in case of Exploratory Research: -It is also termed as Formulative Research Studies. In this case we do not have enough understanding of the | | |problem. Its main purpose is more precise investigation about the objective of study. It is particularly useful when researchers lack a clear idea of the problems | | |they will meet during the study. Through this the researcher develops more clear concepts, establishes priorities, develop operational definitions also. This means | | |that a general study will be conducted without having any end-objective except to establish as many relationships as possible between the variables of study.The | | |Research Design in such studies must have inbuilt flexibility because the research problem broadly defined initially, is transformed into one with more | | |precise meaning. This type of research lay the foundation for formulation of different hypotheses of research problems. It involves the study of | | |17 | | | | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |sec ondary data. It rarely involves structured questionnaire, large samples and probability sampling plans. | | | | | | | |Different types of Exploratory Research | | |[pic] Literature Survey: It is a study involving a collection of literatures in the selected area in which the researcher has limited experience, and critical | | |examination and comparison of them to have better understanding. It helps in updating the past data related to the topic of research. It also helps in | | |formulation of relevant hypothesis if it is not formed. | | | | | | | | |[pic] Experience Survey: It is a survey of experiences of experts/specialists related to the field of research which acts as a database for future research.This | | |helps in generating ideas with minimum data collection. The decision making in the probabilistic situations is a complex process therefore the study of the | | |experiences of the executives/researchers can be carried out using experience survey. Bidding of Tenders, Technol ogy forecasting, Manpower and Materials planning, | | |Production Scheduling, Portfolio Decisions etc. are examples of experience survey. | | | | | | | | |2. 6. 2 Research Design in case of Descriptive Research : – It is carried out with specific objectives and hence a definite end-result.It is structured | | |research with clearly stated hypothesis or investigative questions. It deals with describing the characteristics associated with the population chosen for | | |research, Estimates of the proportions of a population that have these characteristics and discovery of relationship among several variables. It is based on large | | |representative samples. The design in such studies must be rigid and focus attention on the following: | | |What is the study about and why is it done? Designing methods of data collection. Selecting the sample. | | |Processing and analysis of data. | | |Interpretations of Results. Budget and Time Constraints. | | | | | | | |For example: to descri be characteristics of consumers, sales people, market areas or organizations. | | | | | | | | |2. 6. 2. 1 Longitudinal Studies | | |Longitudinal studies are time series analyses that make repeated measurements of the same individuals, thus allowing you to monitor behavior such as | | |brand switching. However, longitudinal studies are not necessarily representative since many people may refuse to participate because of the commitment required. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |18 | | Market ResearchADL-10 cross-sectional analysis is a cohort analysis, which tracks an aggregate of individuals who experience the same event 2. 6. 2. 2 Cross-sectional Studies Cross-sectional studies sample the population to make measurements at a specific point in time. A special type of within the same time interval over time.You can use Cohort analyses for long forecasting of product demand. 2. 6. 3 Research Design in case of Causal Research: -When it is necessary to determine that one variable determi nes values of other variables, causal research design is used. Thus the relationship between different variables is established. It is a research design in which the major emphasis is on determining a cause-and-effect relationship. When we start the research work it is not necessary that only one type of research is used, we can use a combination of two or all the three types of research. Also research is an unending process, so there may be a clue left, which can initiate a research objective for other researchers. 19 | | |Market Research |ADL-10 | | | | | |End Chapter Quizzes | | | | | |1. For an appropriate research, there should be a clear distinction between a. Methods and Tools | | |b. Purpose and Techniques | | |c. Problem and Methods for implementation d.Problem and Purpose ** | | | | | | | | |2. Which one of the following does not state the components of a research problem? | | |a. An individual or group having some difficulty | | |b. There shouldn‘t be any doubt in the mind of researcher with regard to selection of | | |alternatives** | | |c. There must be some environment to which the difficulty pertains d.There must be some objectives to be attain