Research Methods for Management

MBA First Year

Paper No. 1.7

School of Distance Education

Bharathiar University, Coimbatore - 641 046
 CONTENTS

Page no.

UNIT-I
Lesson 1 Fundamentals of Research 7
Lesson 2 Research Process of Design 13
Lesson 3 Scientific Method in Research 22
Lesson 4 Problems in Research 27
UNIT-II
Lesson 5 Hypothesis 37
Lesson 6 Causal Research 49
Lesson 7 Concept of Measurement 59
Lesson 8 Scaling Techniques 63

UNIT-III
Lesson 9 Sampling Design 73
Lesson 10 Data Collection 88
Lesson 11 Pilot Study 112

UNIT-IV

Lesson 12 Test of Significance 131

Lesson 13 Non-parametric Tests 143
Lesson 14 Multivariate Analysis 148
UNIT-V
Lesson 15 Interpretation 161
Lesson 16 Report Writing 165
Lesson 17 Oral Presentation 173
Glossary 177
 RESEARCH METHODS FOR MANAGEMENT

Number of Credit Hours : 3

Subject Description: This course presents the basic concept of research design, hypotheses,
sampling techniques, testing the significance and report writing.

Goals: To enable the students to learn the importance of the research, various methods of
analysis of data and its applications in the business management.

Objectives: On successful completion of the course the students should have:

1. understood the basic of the research methods..
2. learnt the various techniques of sampling.
3. learnt the various methods of analysis of data and its applicability in the decision making.
4. learnt to write a good research report.

UNIT I

Research - meaning - scope and significance - Types of research - Research Process -

Characteristics of good research - Scientific method - Problems in research - Identifying
research problem concepts, constructs and theoretical framework.

UNIT II

Hypothesis:- meaning - sources - Types - formulation Research design - Types - case study
- features of good design - measurement - meaning - need Errors in measurement - Tests of
sound measurement Techniques of measurement - scaling Techniques - meaning - Types of
scales - scale construction techniques.

UNIT III

Sampling design - meaning - concepts - steps in sampling - criteria for good sample design
- Types of sample designs - Probability and non-probability samples. Data collection:-
Types of data - sources - Tools for data collection methods of data collection - constructing
questionnaire - Pilot study - case study - Data processing:- coding - editing - and tabulation
of data - Data analysis.

UNIT IV

Test of Significance:- Assumptions about parametric and non-parametric tests. Parametric

Test - T test, F Test and Z test - Non Parametric Test - U Test, Kruskal Wallis, sign test.
Multivariate analysis-factor, cluster, MDS, Discriminant ananlysis. (NO Problems). SPSS
and its applications.

UNIT V

Interpretation - meaning - Techniques of interpretation - Report writing:- Significance -

Report writing:- Steps in report writing - Layout of report - Types of reports - Oral presentation
- executive summary - mechanics of writing research report - Precautions for writing report
- Norms for using Tables, charts and diagrams - Appendix:- norms for using Index and
Bibliography.
UNIT-I
LESSON

1
FUNDAMENTALS OF RESEARCH

CONTENTS
1.0 Aims and Objectives
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Scope and Significance of Research
1.3 The Types of Research
1.3.1 Exploratory Research
1.3.2 Descriptive Research
1.3.3 Applied Research
1.3.4 Pure/Fundamental Research or Basic Research
1.3.5 Conceptual Research
1.3.6 Casual Research
1.3.7 Historical Research
1.3.8 Ex-post Facto Research
1.3.9 Action Research
1.3.10 Evaluation Research
1.3.11 Library Research
1.4 Let us Sum Up
1.5 Lesson-end Activity
1.6 Keywords
1.7 Questions for Discussion
1.8 Suggested Readings

1.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this Lesson we will discuss the basic fundamentals of research. After going through
this lesson you will be able to:
(i) describe meaning and objectives of research.
(ii) differentiate between different types of research.
(iii) describe scope and significance of research.

1.1 INTRODUCTION
Research in common man's language refers to "search for Knowledge".
Research is an art of scientific investigation. It is also a systematic design, collection,
analysis and reporting the findings & solutions for the marketing problem of a company.
Research is required because of the following reasons:
l To identify and find solutions to the problems
Research Methods for l To help making decisions
Management
l To develop new concepts
l To find alternate strategies
To identify and find solutions to the problem:
To understand the problem in depth, Example: "Why is that demand for a product is
falling"? "Why is there a business fluctuation once in three years"? By identifying the
problem as above, it is easy to collect the relevant data to solve the problem.
To help making decisions:
Example: Should we maintain the advertising budget same as last year? Research will
answer this question.
To find alternative strategies:
Should we follow pull strategy or push strategy to promote the product.
To develop new concepts:
Example: CRM, Horizontal Marketing, MLM etc.

1.2 SCOPE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF RESEARCH

i. Decision-making tool: Whenever a decision is to be made, marketing research
becomes necessary in the corporate world. The degree of dependence on research
is based on the cost of decisions. If the cost of decision is high, the dependence on
research is high, and vice versa.
ii. Facilitates large- scale production: The MR helps large scale enterprises in the
areas of production to determine:
(a) What to produce?
(b) How much to produce?
(c) When to produce?
iii. To determine the pattern of consumption: The consumption patterns vary from
place to place and time to time. The MR helps in identifying the consumption
pattern and also the availability of consumer credit in that particular place.
MR helps the marketer to identify:
l Consumption pattern
l Brand loyalty
l Consumer behaviour
l Market trends, etc.
iv. Complex market: In a complex and dynamic environment, the role of MR is very
vital. MR acts as a bridge between the consumer and the purchaser. This is because
MR enables the management to know the need of the customer, the about demand
for the product and helps the producer to anticipate the changes in the market.
v. Problem-solving: The MR focuses on both short range and long range decisions
and helps in making decisions with respect to the 4ps of marketing, namely, product,
price, place and promotion.
vi. Distribution: The MR helps the manufacturer to decide about the channel, media,
logistics planning so that its customers and distributors are benefited. Based on the
study of MR, suitable distributors, retailers, wholesalers and agents are selected by
the company for distributing their products.
vii. Sales promotion: The MR helps in effective sales promotion. It enlightens the
manufacturer with regard to the method of sales promotion to be undertaken,
8 such as advertising, personal selling, publicity etc. It also helps in understanding the
 attitude of the customers and helps how to design the advertisement in line with Fundamentals of Research
prevailing attitudes.

1.3 THE TYPES OF RESEARCH

There are different types of research.

1.3.1 Exploratory Research

This type of research is carried out at the very beginning when the problem is not clear
or is vague. In exploratory research, all possible reasons which are very obvious are
eliminated, thereby directing the research to proceed further with limited options.
Sales decline in a company may be due to:
(1) Inefficient service
(2) Improper price
(3) Inefficient sales force
(4) Ineffective promotion
(5) Improper quality
The research executives must examine such questions to identify the most useful avenues
for further research. Preliminary investigation of this type is called exploratory research.
Expert surveys, focus groups, case studies and observation methods are used to conduct
the exploratory survey.

1.3.2 Descriptive Research

The main purpose of descriptive research is to describe the state of view as it exists at
present. Simply stated, it is a fact finding investigation. In descriptive research, definite
conclusions can be arrived at, but it does not establish a cause and effect relationship.
This type of research tries to describe the characteristics of the respondent in relation to
a particular product.
l Descriptive research deals with demographic characteristics of the consumer. For
example, trends in the consumption of soft drink with respect to socio-economic
characteristics such as age, family, income, education level etc. Another example
can be the degree of viewing TV channels, its variation with age, income level,
profession of respondent as well as time of viewing. Hence, the degree of use of
TV to different types of respondents will be of importance to the researcher. There
are three types of players who will decide the usage of TV : (a) Television
manufacturers, (b) Broadcasting agency of the programme, (c) Viewers. Therefore,
research pertaining to any one of the following can be conducted:
l The manufacturer can come out with facilities which will make the television more
user-friendly. Some of the facilities are (a) Remote control, (b) Child lock,
(c) Different models for different income groups, (d) Internet compatibility etc.,
(e) Wall mounting etc.
l Similarly, broadcasting agencies can come out with programmes, which can suit
different age groups and income.
l Ultimately, the viewers who use the TV must be aware of the programmes appearing
in different channels and can plan their viewing schedule accordingly.
l Descriptive research deals with specific predictions, for example, sales of a
companys product during the next three years, i.e., forecasting.
l Descriptive research is also used to estimate the proportion of population who
behave in a certain way. Example: Why do middle income groups go to Food
World to buy their products? 9
Research Methods for A study can be commissioned by a manufacturing company to find out various facilities
Management
that can be provided in television sets based on the above discussion.
Similarly, studies can be conducted by broadcasting stations to find out the degree of
utility of TV programmes. Example: The following hypothesis may be formulated about
the programmes:
l The programmes in various channels are useful by way of entertainment to the
viewers.
l Viewers feel that TV is a boon for their children in improving their knowledge
especially, fiction and cartoon programmes.

1.3.3 Applied Research

Applied research aims at finding a solution for an immediate problem faced by any business
organization. This research deals with real life situations. Example: Why have sales
decreased during the last quarter? Market research is an example of applied research.
Applied research has a practical problem-solving emphasis. It brings out many new facts.
Examples:
1. Use of fibre glass body for cars instead of metal.
2. To develop a new market for the product.

1.3.4 Pure/Fundamental Research or Basic Research

Gathering knowledge for knowledges sake is known as basic research. It is not directly
involved with practical problems. It does not have any commercial potential. There is no
intention to apply this research in practice. Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
conducts such studies. Example: Theory of Relativity (by Einstein).

1.3.5 Conceptual Research

This is generally used by philosophers. It is related to some abstract idea or theory. In
this type of research, the researcher should collect the data to prove or disapprove his
hypothesis. The various ideologies or isms are examples of conceptual research.

1.3.6 Causal Research

Causal research is conducted to determine the cause and effect relationship between
the two variables.
Example: Effect of advertisement on sales.

1.3.7 Historical Research

The name itself indicates the meaning of the research. Historical study is a study of past
records and data in order to understand the future trends and development of the
organisation or market. There is no direct observation. The research has to depend on
the conclusions or inferences drawn in the past.
For example, investors in the share market study the past records or prices of shares
which he/she intends to buy. Studying the share prices of a particular company enables
the investor to take decision whether to invest in the shares of a company.
Crime branch police/CBI officers study the past records or the history of the criminals
and terrorists in order to arrive at some conclusions.
The main objective of this study is to derive explanation and generalization from the past
trends in order to understand the present and anticipate the future.
There are however, certain shortcomings of Historical Research:

10 1. Reliability and adequacy information is subjective and open to question

2. Accuracy of measurement of events is doubtful. Fundamentals of Research

3. Verification of records are difficult.

1.3.8 Ex-post Facto Research

In this type of research, an examination of relationship that exists between independent
and dependent variable is studied. We may call this empirical research. In this method,
the researcher has no control over an independent variable. Ex-post facto literally means
from what is done afterwards. In this research, a variable A is observed. Thereafter,
the researcher tries to find a causal variable B which caused A. It is quite possible
that B might not have been caused A. In this type of analysis, there is no scope for
the researcher to manipulate the variable. The researcher can only report what has
happened and what is happening.

1.3.9 Action Research

This type of research is undertaken by direct action. Action research is conducted to
solve a problem. Example: Test marketing a product is an example of action research.
Initially, the geographical location is identified. A target sample is selected from among
the population. Samples are distributed to selected samples and feedback is obtained
from the respondent. This method is most common for industrial products, where a trial
is a must before regular usage of the product.

1.3.10 Evaluation Research

This is an example of applied research. This research is conducted to find out how well
a planned programme is implemented. Therefore, evaluation research deals with
evaluating the performance or assessment of a project. Example: Rural Employment
Programme Evaluation or Success of Midday Meal Programme.

1.3.11 Library Research

This is done to gather secondary data. This includes notes from the past data or review
of the reports already conducted. This is a convenient method whereby both manpower
and time are saved.

Check Your Progress

1. What are the reasons for sales decline in a company?

2. What are different types of research?

1.4 LET US SUM UP

Research originates in a decision process. In research process, management problem is
converted into a research problem. Which is the major objective of the study. Research
question is further subdivided, covering various facets of the problem that need to be
solved. The role and scope of research has greatly increased in the field of business and
economy as a whole. The study of research methods provides you with knowledge and
skills you need to solve the problems and meet the challenges of today is modern pace of
development

1.5 LESSON-END ACTIVITY

An Indian company dealing in pesticides hires a qualified business management graduate
to expand its marketing activities. Most of the current employees of the company are
qualified chemists with science background. During their first review meeting the
11
Research Methods for management graduate says that the company should be involved in market research to
Management
get a better perspective of the problem on hand. On hearing this, one of the science
graduate laughs and says There is no such thing as marketing or business research,
research is combined to science alone.
What would be your response?

1.6 KEYWORDS
Unambiguous
Blueprint
Research methodology
Action research
Ex-postfact research
Evaluation research
Applied research
Explorator research
Descriptive research

1.7 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is the importance of research?
2. What are the types of research?
3. What are the good criteria of research?
4. What is a research problem?

1.8 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007
Abrams, M.A, Social Surveys and Social Action, London: Heinemann, 1951.
Arthur, Maurice, Philosophy of Scientific Investigation, Baltimore: John Hopkins
University Press, 1943.
Bernal, J.D., The Social Function of Science, London: George Routledge and Sons,
1939.
Chase, Stuart, The Proper Study of Mankind: An inquiry into the Science of Human
Relations, New York, Harper and Row Publishers, 1958.

12
LESSON

2
RESEARCH PROCESS OF DESIGN

CONTENTS
2.0 Aims and Objectives
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Research Process
2.2.1 What is Research Problem?
2.2.2 What is Research Methodology?
2.3 Research Process/Plan
2.4 Steps involved in Preparing Market Research Plan or Designing a Research
2.4.1 Problem Formulation
2.4.2 Evaluate the Cost of Research
2.4.3 Preparing a List of Needed Information
2.4.4 Research Design and Data Collection
2.4.5 Select the Sample Types
2.4.6 Determine the Sample Size
2.4.7 Organise the fieldwork
2.4.8 Analyze the Data and Report Preparation
2.5 Criteria of a Good Research
2.5.1 A Good Research should be Systematic
2.5.2 A Good Research should be Logical
2.5.3 A Good Research should be Empirical
2.5.4 A Good Research is Replicable
2.6 Let us Sum up
2.7 Lesson-end Activities
2.8 Keywords
2.9 Questions for Discussion
2.10 Suggested Readings

2.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In Lesson 2 we will discuss the steps involved in research process and design. After
studying this lesson you will be able to:
(i) understand steps involved in research process.
(ii) describe research methodology.
(iii) articulate problem formulation.
(iv) categorize research design.
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Research process involves gathering data, use statistical techniques, interpretations,
and drawing conclusions about the research data. Research design is in fact the conceptual
Research Methods for structure within which the research is conducted. All the steps and questions related to
Management
research process and design have been studied in this lesson.
2.2 RESEARCH PROCESS
2.2.1 What is Research Problem?
A research problem refers to some difficulty which analyzing on is facing and wants to
obtain the solution for the same.
While doing research, defining the problem is very important because Problem clearly
stated is half solved. This shows how important it is to Define the problem correctly.
While defining the problem, it should be noted that it should be Unambiguous. If the
problem defining is ambiguous, then the researcher will not know what data is to be
collected, What technique is to be used etc.
Example: Ambiguous definition: Find out how much, sales has declined recently. Let
us suppose that, the research problem is defined in broad and general way as follows:
Why is the productivity in Korea is very much higher than in India?
In this type of question, a number of ambiguities are there, such as:
l What sort of productivity is to be specified; Is it men, machine, materials? Etc.
l To Which type of industry, the productivity is related to?
l What period of time, the productivity is being talked about?
Example: Unambiguous definition: On the contrary, a problem will be as follows:-
What are the factors responsible for increased labour productivity in Korean textile
manufacturing industries during the decade 1996 to 2006 relative to Indian textile industries?

2.2.2 What is Research Methodology?

Research methodology is a method to solve the research problem systematically. It
involves gathering data, use of statistical techniques, interpretations, and drawing
conclusions about the research data. It is a blue print, which is followed, to complete the
study. It is similar to builders blue print to build a house.

2.3 RESEARCH DESIGN / PLAN

Research design is one of the important steps in marketing research. It helps in establishing
the way the researcher to go about to achieve, the objective of the study.
The preparation of a research design involves a careful consideration of the following
questions and making appropriate decisions on them.
1. What the study is about?
2. Why is the study made?
3. What is its scope?
4. What are the objectives of study?
5. What are the hypothesis / Proportions to be tested?
6. What are the major concepts to be defined operationally?
7. What type of literature to be reviewed?
8. What is the area of the study?
9. What is reference period of the study?
10. What methodology is to be used?
11. What kinds of data are needed?
12. What are the sources of data?
13. What is the sampling boundary?
14
14. What are the sampling units?
15. What is the sample size? Research Process of Design

16. What sampling techniques are to be used?

17. What data collection methods are to be used?
18. How the data are to be processed?
19. What are the statistical techniques are to be used for analysis?
20. To which target group, the finding are meant for?
21. What is the type of report to be prepared?
22. What is the duration of time required, for each stage of the research work?
23. What is the cost involved?
24. Who reads the report?

2.4 STEPS INVOLVED IN PREPARING MARKET

RESEARCH PLAN OR DESIGNING A RESEARCH
There are nine steps in the research process, that can be followed while designing a
research project, they are as follows:
l Problem formulation
l Evaluate the cost of research
l Preparing a list of needed information
l Research design decision and Data collection
l Select the sample types
l Determine the sample size
l Organize the fieldwork
l Analyze the data and report preparation

2.4.1 Problem Formulation

Problem formulation is the key to research process. For a researcher, problem formulation
means converting the management problem to a research problem. In order to attain
clarity, the M.R manager and researcher must articulate clearly so that perfect
understanding of each others is achieved.
Example: Management problem and research problem
M.P Want to increase the sale of product A.
R.P What is the current standing of the product A?
While problem is being formulated, the following should be taken into account.
(1) Determine the objective of the study.
(2) Consider various environment factors.
(3) Nature of the problem.
(4) State the alternative
(1) Determine the objective: Objective may be general or specific. General Would
like to know, how effective was the advertising campaign.
The above looks like a statement with objective. In reality, it is far from it. There
are two ways of finding out the objectives precisely. (1) The researcher should 15
Research Methods for clarify with the M.R manager What effective means. Does effective mean,
Management
awareness or does it refer to sales increase or does it mean, it has improved the
knowledge of the audience, or the perception of audience about the product.
In each of the above circumstances, the questions to be asked from audience
varies (2) Another way to find objectives is to find out from the M.R Manager,
What action will be taken, given the specified outcome of the study. For example:
If research finding is that, the previous advertisement by the company was indeed
ineffective, what course of action the company intends to take (a) Increase the
budget for the next Ad (b) Use different appeal (3) Change the media (4) Go to a
new agency.
If objectives are proper, research questions will be precise. However we should
remember that objectives, do undergo a change.
(2) Consider environmental factors: Environmental factors influence the outcome
of the research and the decision. Therefore, the researcher must help the client to
identify the environmental factors that are relevant.
Example: Assume that the company wants to introduce a new product like Iced
tea or frozen green peas or ready to eat chapathis.
The following are the environmental factors to be considered.
(a) Purchasing habit of consumers.
(b) Presently, who are the other competitors in the market with same or similar
product.
(c) What is the perception of the people about the other products of the company,
with respect to price, image of the company.
(d) Size of the market and target audience.
All the above factors could influence the decision. Therefore researcher must
work very closely with his client.
(3) Nature of the problem: By understanding the nature of the problem, the researcher
can collect relevant data and help suggesting a suitable solution. Every problem is
related to either one or more variable. Before starting the data collection, a
preliminary investigation of the problem is necessary, for better understanding of
the problem. Initial investigation could be, by using focus group of consumers or
sales representatives.
If focus group is carried out with consumers, some of the following question will
help the researcher to understand the problem better.
(a) Did the customer ever included this companys product in his mental map?
(b) If the customer is not buying the companies product, the reasons for the
same.
(c) Why did the customer go to the competitor?
(d) Is the researcher contacting the right target audience?
(4) State the alternatives: It is better for the researcher to generate as many alternatives
as possible during problem formulation hypothesis. Example: Whether to introduce
a Sachet form of packaging with a view to increase sales. The hypothesis will state
that, acceptance of the sachet by the customer will increase the sales by 20%.
Thereafter, the test marketing will be conducted before deciding whether to introduce
sachet or not. Therefore for every alternative, a hypothesis is to be developed.

2.4.2 Evaluate the Cost of Research

There are several methods to establish the value of research. Some of them are (1)
Bayesian approach (2) Simple saving method (3) Return on investment (4) Cost benefit
16 approach etc.
Example 1: Company X wants to launch a product. The companys intuitive feeling is Research Process of Design
that, the product failure possibilities is 35%. However, if research is conducted and
appropriate data is gathered, the chances of failure can be reduced to 30%. Company
also has calculated, that the loss would be Rs. 3,00,000 if product fails. The company
has received a quote from MR agency. The cost of research is Rs. 75,000. The question
is Should the company spend this money to conduct research?
Calculation:
Loss without research = 3,00,000 0.35
= Rs. 1,05,000
Loss with research = 3,00,000 0.30
= Rs. 90,000
Value of research information
= 1,05,000 90,000
= Rs. 15,000
Since the value of information namely Rs. 15000 is lower than the cost of research Rs.
75,000, conducting research is not recommended.
Example 2: Company A would like to introduce a new product in the market. The
research agencies has given an estimation of 5 lakhs and a time period of five months.
According the past experience of the company, the probability of earning 10 lakhs is 0.4
& 5 lakhs is 0.3 and loosing 7 lakhs is 0.3. Should the company under take the research?
Calculation:
0.4 10 + 0.3 5 0.3 7 = 4 + 1.5 2.1 = 3.4 lakhs
Since we find that the expected value of information i.e. 3.4 lakhs is less than the cost of
M.R at 5 lakhs, there is no need carry out the research.

2.4.3 Preparing a List of Needed Information

Assume that company X wants to introduce a new product (Tea powder). Before
introducing it, the product has to be test marketed. The company needs to know the
extent of competition, price and quality acceptance from the market. In this context,
following are the list of information required.
(a) Total demand and company sales: Example: What is the overall industry
demand? What is the share of the competitor? The above information will help the
management to estimate overall share and its own shares, in the market.
(b) Distribution coverage: Example:
(1) Availability of products at different outlets.
(2) Effect of shelf display on sales.
(c) Market awareness, attitude and usage: Example: What percentage of target
population are aware of firms product? Do customers know about the product?
What is the customers attitude towards the product? What percentage of
customers repurchased the product?
(d) Marketing expenditure: Example: What has been the marketing expenditure?
How much was spent on promotion?
(e) Competitors marketing expenditure: Example: How much competitor spent,
to market a similar product?
17
Research Methods for 2.4.4 Research Design Decision and Data Collection
Management
(a) Should the research be exploratory or conclusive?
Exploratory research: Example: Causes for decline in sales of a specific companys
product in a specific territory under a specific salesman. The researcher may explore
all possibilities why sales in falling?
l Faulty product planning
l Higher price
l Less discount
l Less availability
l Inefficient advertising/salesmanship
l Poor quality of salesmanship
l less awareness
Not all factors are responsible for decline in sales.
Conclusive research: Narrow down the option. Only one or two factors are responsible
for decline in sales. Therefore zero down, and use judgment and past experience.
(b) Who should be interviewed for collecting data?: If the study is undertaken to
determine whether, children influence the brand, for ready to eat cereal (corn
flakes) purchased by their parents. The researcher must decide, if only adults are
to be studied or children are also to be included. The researcher must decide if data
is to be collected by observation method or by interviewing. If interviewed, Is it a
personal interview or telephonic interview or questionnaire?
(c) Should a few cases be studied or choose a large sample?: The researcher may
feel that, there are some cases available which are identical and similar in nature.
He may decide to use these cases for formulating the initial hypothesis. If suitable
cases are not available, then the researcher may decide to choose a large sample.
(d) How to incorporate experiment in research?: If it is an experiment, Where
and when measurement should take place, should be decided. Example: In a test
of advertising copy, the respondents can first be interviewed to measure their present
awareness, and their attitudes towards certain brands. Then, they can be shown a
pilot version of the proposed advertisement copy, following this, their attitude also
is to be measured once again, to see if the proposed copy had any effect on them.
If it is a questionnaire, (a) What is the contents of the questionnaire? (b) What type
of questions to be asked? Example: Pointed questions, general questions etc. (c) In
what sequence should it be asked? (d) Should there be a fixed set of alternatives or
should it be open ended. (e) Should the purpose be made clear to the respondents
or should it be disguised? Are to be determined well in advance.

2.4.5 Select the Sample Types

The first task is to carefully select What groups of people or stores are to be sampled.
Example: Collecting the data from a fast food chain. Here, it is necessary to define what
is meant by fast food chain. Also precise geographical location should be mentioned.
Next step is to decide whether to choose probability sampling or non probability sampling.
Probability sampling is one, in which each element has a known chance of being selected.
A non-probability sampling can be convenience or judgment sampling.

2.4.6 Determine the Sample Size

Smaller the sample size, larger the error, vice versa.
Sample size depends up on (a) Accuracy required (b) Time available (c) Cost involved.
18 While selecting the sample, the sample unit has to be clearly specified. Example: Survey
on the attitudes towards the use of shampoo with reference to a specific brand, where Research Process of Design
husbands, wives or combination of all of them are to be surveyed or a specific segment
is to be surveyed. Sample size depends on the size of the sample frame/universe.

2.4.7 Organize the Fieldwork

This includes selection, training and evaluating the field sales force to collect the data (a)
How to analyzing the field work? (b) What type of questionnaire structured / unstructured
to use? (c) How to approach the respondents? (d) Week, day and time to meet the
specific respondents etc., are to be decided.

2.4.8 Analyze of the Data and Report Preparation

This involves (a) Editing (b) Tabulating (c) Codifying etc.
Editing: The data collected should be scanned, to make sure that it is complete and all
the instructions are followed. This process is called editing. Once these forms have been
edited, they must be coded.
Coding means, assigning numbers to each of the answers, so that they can be analyzed.
The final step is called as data tabulation. It is the orderly arrangement of the data in a
tabular form. Also at the time of analyzing the data, the statistical tests to be used must
be finalized such as T-Test, Z-test, Chi-square Test, ANOVA etc.

Check Your Progress

For the below mentioned scenario lay down your recommendation of the most
suitable type of research (Explanatory) Descriptive, Experimentation, Longitudinal
and cross-sectional). Explain the reasons for your choice
A co-operative bank has 4,000 customers who have taken personal loan or vehicle
loan of late, the bank feels that there has been an increase in the number of defaulters.
The bank would like to know whether people who are regular (no default) and
defaulters differ in terms of characteristics such as age, income, occupation, sex
marital status.

2.5 WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA OR CHARACTERISTICS

OF A GOOD RESEARCH?

2.5.1 A Good Research should be Systematic

This means that research should be structured. A good research will satisfy the steps to
be taken in an orderly sequence according to a set of defined rules i.e., researcher uses
scientific methods and therefore is systematic.

2.5.2 A Good Research should be Logical

There should be logical reasoning in any research. This logical process used could be
induction or deduction. Induction is a process of reasoning from the part to the whole. To
induce means to draw conclusion from one or more facts or pieces of evidence.
An example of Induction: An advertising company gathers information about market
requirements from retailers/users from a small test market. Based upon the findings, say
price, generalization is made regarding What is the acceptable market price or Is
the customer price sensitive?
Deduction is a process of reasoning some premise and then reaching the conclusion
which follows from that premise. In deduction, the conclusion drawn must necessarily
follow the reason stated.
19
Research Methods for Example: All products manufactured by Reebok Company are good. This leather
Management
wallet is a product of Reebok, so it must be good.

2.5.3 A Good Research should be Empirical

Empirical means the factual investigation is possible. Its validity can be checked through
reliable sources and evidences. Research should be such that it can be validated, i.e., it
should be possible to describe, interpret and explain the phenomenon.

2.5.4 A Good Research is Replicable

It means the research conducted can be repeated by any number of times. A researcher
can verify the results by repeating the study and thereby delivering a sound decision-
making framework. For example, if two research organisations undertake the same
study, the results should be similar and not different. If the results are similar, then the
research is will be replicable.

2.6 LET US SUM UP

In this lesson we have discussed the problem identification in research, steps invalued in
research process and design, conceptual structure within which the research is conducted
and criteria or characteristics of a good research.
The first and foremost step in the research process consists of problem identification.
The research problem could be in any of the following three area:
(i) Exploratory;
(ii) Descriptive; or
(iii) Causal
Formulation of the problem means defining the problem precisely. The next step of the
research process call for determining the information needed, developing a plan for
gathering it efficiently. Research design is blue print for the collection, measurement and
analysis of data.

2.7 LESSON END ACTIVITIES

Given the following decision problem, identify the research problem:
(i) Whether to change the compensation package of the sales force
(ii) Whether to increase the expenditure or print advertisement.

2.8 KEYWORDS
Research plan
Management problem
Problem formulation
Environmental factors
Mental map
Research cost
Market awareness
Distribution coverage
20 Market expenditure
Disguised Research Process of Design

Probability sampling
Editing
Tabulating
Codifying
Research brief
Research
Pure research
Applied research
Ex-post-facto study
Descriptive research
Exploratory research

2.9 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is research methodology?
2. What are the questions posed for self in designing the research?
3. What are the steps involved in preparing the research plan?
4. Distinguish between management problem and research problem.
5. What is research brief?
6. What are the components of research brief ? Explain.
7. What is the difference between manager and researcher?

2.10 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007
Abrams, M.A, Social Surveys and Social Action, London: Heinemann, 1951.
Arthur, Maurice, Philosophy of Scientific Investigation, Baltimore: John Hopkins
University Press, 1943.
Bernal, J.D., The Social Function of Science, London: George Routledge and Sons,
1939.
Chase, Stuart, The Proper Study of Mankind: An inquiry into the Science of Human
Relations, New York, Harper and Row Publishers, 1958.

21
Research Methods for
Management LESSON

3
SCIENTIFIC METHOD IN RESEARCH

CONTENTS
3.0 Aims and Objectives
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Process and Logic in Scientific Research
3.3 Characteristics of Scientific Method
3.4 Why MR cannot be considered Scientific
3.5 Distinction between Scientific and Unscientific Method
3.5.1 Rational and Objective
3.5.2 Accuracy
3.5.3 Maintaining Continuity in Investigation
3.6 Let us Sum up
3.7 Lesson-end Activity
3.8 Keywords
3.9 Questions for Discussion
3.10 Suggested Readings

3.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study various facets of scientific methods in research. After studying
this lesson you will be able to:
(i) define scientific research.
(ii) differentiate between scientific and non-scientific methods of research.
(iii) describe characteristics of scientific methods in research.

3.1 INTRODUCTION
Scientific research is one which yields the same results when it is repeated by different
individuals. The scientific method consists of the following steps.
(i) Systematic problem analysis;
(ii) model Building; and
(iii) Fact finding methods, used for the purpose of important decision-making and to
regulate the marketing of goods and services.

3.2 PROCESS AND LOGIC IN SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

1. Observation: The researcher wants to observe, a set of important factors that is
22 related to his problem.
2. Formulates Hypothesis: The researcher formulates hypothesis, which will explain Scientific Method in Research
what he has observed
3. Future Prediction: The researcher draws a logical conclusion
4. Testing the hypothesis: Is the conclusion based on data
Example: A simple example will highlight, how a scientific method works. Let us assume
that a researcher is conducting a market research project for a client manufacturing
men's apparel.
1. Observation: Researcher observes that some of the competitors are doing a brisk
business. Sales increase of apparel is mainly due to round or turtle neck shirt and
narrow bottom pants.
2. Formulation of Hypothesis: Researcher now presumes that the product of his
clients are somewhat similar and the variation in shirt and pant variety as above is
the main cause for competitors sales increase.
3. Future prediction: It is predicted that if his client introduces same / similar products,
sales will increase.
4. Hypothesis testing: The client now produces, round neck shirts and narrow bottom
pants for test marketing.

3.3 CHARACTERISTICS OF SCIENTIFIC METHOD

(a) Validity
(b) Reliability
Validity is the ability of a measuring instrument to measure what it is supposed to measure.
A questionnaire is administered to find the attitudes of the respondent towards a movie.
So long as the questionnaire serves this purpose, we say that the instrument is valid.
In physical science, instrument used such as barometer, thermometer or scale measures
what it is intended to do. Also measurement can be repeated any number of times by
different individuals, the result will be the same.

3.4 WHY MR CANNOT BE CONSIDERED SCIENTIFIC

In M.R questionnaire is the instrument is used. There are five problems faced by
researcher regarding validity and reliability.
1. Different respondent interpret the same question in different ways. So the reply of
the respondent will be different
2. Whether sample is a representative of the population or not
3. Same questionnaire administered by different interviewers will yield different results.
4. Measuring instrument namely questionnaire may not state clearly what is being
measured
5. Lab experiment is held under controlled condition. Such as temperature, humidity
etc. in marketing research, it is not possible to control external environmental factors
surrounding the study. Due to this, researcher may not be able to produce the same
result.
Example 1: Respondent is interviewed on a specific subject. After about 60 days, the
same respondent is interviewed once again. His reply could be very different from what
he told first time. This may be because, he gathered additional information, or discussed
the subject with others during this time period.

23
Research Methods for Reliability means, we must get the same result again and again when measured.
Management
Example 2: Linear measurement using a scale, Velocity of light, sound in a given media,
will be the same when measured repeatedly.

3.5 DISTINCTION BETWEEN SCIENTIFIC AND

UNSCIENTIFIC METHOD
There are three major differences between scientific and unscientific method:
l Rational and objective
l Accuracy of measurement
l Maintaining continuity in investigation
3.5.1 Rational and Objective
Conclusions should be based on facts. Mindset should not influence decision making.
E.g. When Howthorne studies started, it was thought that "employee satisfaction improved
productivity". Later research proved otherwise. In fact, later, research indicated that
productivity and employee satisfaction are not directly related. Similarly, in M.R, researcher
should not proceed with preconceived notions. He must keep an open mind and be
objective. Sometimes researcher approach respondents, who are easy to reach, and
with whom, they are comfortable even though, they may not represent the true sample.
In this case, objectivity is sacrificed.
3.5.2 Accuracy
Accuracy using scientific instrument can be ensured. This is because, the measuring
instrument is valid and reliable. In M.R, Questionnaire is used to measure aspects such
as attitude, preference etc. and this instrument is crude.
Example:
Habit such as smoking is measured using a scale such as
a. Often
b. Sometimes
c. More often than not
d. Rarely
e. Regularly
There are two aspects in the above questionnaire which may lead to inaccuracy.
(1) Respondents perception of what is asked
(2) What is the correct answer among the alternative
It is difficult to judge whether the respondent is answering correctly or not. Due to all
there factors, accuracy had to be sacrificed.

3.5.3 Maintaining Continuity in Investigation

In science, there is continuity. This is because, every time there is an invention, the same is
carried forward for further improving the same Example: Basic telephony Vs Latest mobile
phones, early steam engines Vs Electronically driven engines. In M.R, there is less continuity.
The present researcher does not start from where it was left out. Each project is independent.
What is learnt in one assignment is not made use of in subsequent projects.
Due to all the above 3 reasons, we can conclude that M.R is not scientific.
24
 Scientific Method in Research
Check Your Progress

1. Why MR cannot be considered scientific?

2. How can you maintain continuity in investigation?
3. What are the three differences between scientific and unscientific methods?

3.6 LET US SUM UP

The essence of scientific method are validity and reliability. Scientific method consists
of observation, formulate hypothesis, future prediction, testing hypothesis. And marketing
research lacks the same this is because marketing research is faced with several varying
factors such as, instrument used to gather data, (Questionnaire) data interpretation,
accuracy of sample selected etc., due to which validity and reliability suffers and hence
considered unscientific. Also there are several other difficulties in applying scientific
method in market research such as lack of continuity, investigators role, time pressure
etc.

3.7 LESSON-END ACTIVITY

Considering the characteristics of scientific method, find out the difficulties in applying
scientific methods to research in business and management.

3.8 KEYWORDS
Hypothesis
Validity
Reliability
Instrument
Precise

3.9 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is a scientific method?
2. What is validity and reliability? Give example.
3. "Search for facts should be made by scientific method rather than arbitrary method"
substantiate the statement.
4. Distinguish scientific vs unscientific method.
5. The following words are commonly used in marketing. What is the meaning and
importance of it.
(a) Objective (b) Systematic (c) Decision-making
6. What is induction / deduction method of logical reasoning as applied to M.R?
7. Why marketing research cannot be considered scientific? Give reasons?
8. Describe the characteristics of scientific method?

3.10 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007
Abrams, M.A, Social Surveys and Social Action, London: Heinemann, 1951.
25
Research Methods for Arthur, Maurice, Philosophy of Scientific Investigation, Baltimore: John Hopkins
Management
University Press, 1943.
Bernal, J.D., The Social Function of Science, London: George Routledge and Sons,
1939.
Chase, Stuart, The Proper Study of Mankind: An inquiry into the Science of Human
Relations, New York, Harper and Row Publishers, 1958.

26
LESSON

4
PROBLEMS IN RESEARCH

CONTENTS
4.0 Aims and Objectives
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Retailing
4.3 Cyber-Marketing
4.4 Advertising & Sales Promotions
4.5 FMCG
4.6 Consumer Durables
4.7 Production Management
4.8 Financial Management
4.9 Identifying Research Problem
4.10 Sources for Problem Identification
4.11 Self Questioning by Researcher while defining the Problem
4.12 Concepts
4.13 Constructs
4.14 Theoretical Framework
4.15 Let us Sum up
4.16 Keywords
4.17 Questions for Discussion
4.18 Suggested Readings

4.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study the problems in research and their origin, identifying research
problem and its concepts, constructs and theoretical framework. After study this lesson
you will be able to:
(i) formulate the research problem.
(ii) find sources of research problem.
(iii) learn the method of self questioning for defining the research problem.

4.1 INTRODUCTION
The first step in the research process consists of problem identifications. It is said that a
problem identified in half solved. A research problem can be exploratory, descriptive or
causal. Research problems related to different area of study have been discussed in this
lesson in detail.
Research Methods for
Management 4.2 RETAILING
1. A survey on the factors that influence consumers to make their purchase from
departmental store
2. The comparative analysis on the role of consumer loyalty towards organized and
unorganized sector in retailing
3. Role of retailers in influencing consumers buying decision Food products
4. Consumer opinion on setting up a large departmental store
5. A survey on the impact of credit facilities by retailers to consumers in boosting the
retail sales

4.3 CYBER-MARKETING
1. An opinion survey on the impact of internet in buying a product/service
2. A survey on analyzing of Internet users preference on Horizontal portals
3. A survey on users opinion about paid services (Bulk Mail storage & other value
added services) over Internet
4. Role of internet in influencing consumer buying decision on consumer durable
5. A survey on analyzing the effectiveness local portals in influencing consumers to
buy over internet

4.4 ADVERTISING & SALES PROMOTIONS

1. Effectiveness of print media on consumer buying decision-product to be selected
by candidate
2. Effectiveness Outdoor media on consumer buying decision product to be selected
by candidate
3. Analysis on the relationship between leading TV serials and the effectiveness of
advertisement in mass reach channel to be selected by candidate
4. Analysis on the effectiveness of dealer sales promotion in motivating the retailers
a company to be selected by candidate
5. Consumers opinion on the influence of sales promotion on their buying decision-
product to be selected by candidate

4.5 FMCG
1. Role of brand loyalty in influencing consumer buying decision Cosmetics
2. Analysis on the effectiveness of small packets in boosting consumers consumption
pattern-a product to be selected by candidate
3. Analysis on the frequency of consumers consumption pattern-toilet products
4. Comparative analysis on the consumer preference on buying the national and store
brands of grocery products Atta
5. Survey on the factors that influence the consumer preference of brands and
consumption pattern-biscuits

4.6 CONSUMER DURABLES

1. Analysis on the relationship between price and features in influencing consumer
buying decision product to be selected by candidate
2. Analysis on the consumers opinion on exchange promotion scheme-Television
3. Comparative analysis on the factors and consumer preference to buy two-wheelers
-Victor v/s Passion
4. Analysis on the decision-making pattern in a family in buying consumer durables
5. Analysis on the consumers opinion on buying extra Television to a home in the
28 emerging scenario of multiple private channels
 Problems in Research
4.7 PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT
1. Manufacturing Process
2. Plan Layout study
3. Material Handling facilities Vs Cost saving
4. Production Planning & Control Various functions
5. Production Scheduling
6. Resource Planning Use of software
7. Shop Floor Planning & Control Stage-wise progress study
8. Quality Control Methods, tools adopted
9. Materials management Procurement process
10. Purchasing, Purchasing policies
11. Materials Storing methods
12. Inventory Management E.g. JIT, ABC or VED analysis

4.8 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

1. Collection Mechanism adopted by the organization
2. Credit Policies Adopted
3. Inventory Management Practices followed by the organization
4. Banking Operations of Financial Transactions
5. Funds flow and Cash flow exercises
6. Budgetary Control in operation
7. Taxation Corporate & Excise
8. Determination of cost production procedures & practices
9. Internal Audit & Control mechanism adopted
10. Mobilisation & Deployment of Funds
11. Mutual Fund Performance evaluation
12. Investors Perception about any given financial products/services
13. Branch Profitability of a particular Bank
14. Working Capital Management
15. Housing loan Bank performance evaluation
16. Evaluation of Insurance Schemes
17. Awareness of Derivative Trading practice

4.9 IDENTIFYING RESEARCH PROBLEM

There is a famous saying that Problem well defined is half solved. This statement is
true in market research because if the problem is not stated properly, the objectives will
not be clear. Once objective is not clearly defined, data collection becomes meaningless.
The first step in research is to formulate the problem. A company manufacturing TV
might think that it is loosing its sales to a foreign company. The following illustration 29
Research Methods for shows, How problem could be ill conceived Management of the company felt that, this
Management
was due to its poor product quality. Subsequently research was undertaken with a view
to improve the quality of the product. Despite quality improvement, the sales did not
increase. In this case we may say that the problem is ill defined. The real reason was
Ineffective sales promotion. So, problem needs to be identified with care.
Problem definition might refer to either a real life situation or it may also refer to a set of
opportunities. Market research problem or opportunities will arise under the following
circumstances (1) Unanticipated change (2) Planned change. Many factors in the
environment can create problems or opportunities. Thus, change in the demographics,
technological, legal changes, affect the marketing function. Now the question is How
the company responds to new technology, or New product introduced by competitor
or How to cope up with changes in the life style. It may seem to be problem and at the
same time, it can also be viewed as an opportunity. In order to conduct research, problem
must be defined accurately.
While formulating the problem, clearly define,
1. Who is the focus?
2. What is the subject matter of research?
3. To which geographical territory / area the problem refers to?
4. To which period the study pertains to?
Example: Why is it the upper middle class of Bangalore shop at Life style during
Diwali season.
Here all the above 4 aspects are covered. We may be interested in a no. of variables due
to which shopping is done at a particular place. The characteristic of interest to the
researcher may be (1) Variety offered at Life style (2) Discount offered by way of
promotion (3) Ambiance at Life style (4) Personalised service offered. In some cases,
the cause of the problem is obvious and in some other case, the cause of the problem is
not so obvious. The obvious causes are Product is on the decline. Not so obvious
causes are Bad first experience by the customer.

4.10 SOURCES FOR PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION

Research students can adopt the following ways to identify the problems.
l Research reports already published may be referred to define a specific problem.
l Assistance of research organisation, which handles a number of projects of the
companies, can be sought to identify the problem.
l Professors, working in reputed academic institution can act as guides in problem
identification.
l Company employees and competitors can assist in identifying the problems.
l Cultural changes and Technological changes can act as a sources for research
problem identification.
l Seminars / symposiums / focus groups can act as a useful source.

4.11 SELF QUESTIONING BY RESEARCHER WHILE

DEFINING THE PROBLEM
1. Is the research problem correctly defined?
30 2. Is the research problem solvable?
3. Can relevant data be gathered through the process of marketing research? Problems in Research

4. Is the research problem significant?

5. Can the research be conducted within the resource available?
6. Is the time given to complete the project is sufficient?
7. What exactly will be the difficulties in conducting the study, and hurdles to
overcome?
8. Am I competent to carry out the study?
Managers often want the results of research, in-line with their expectations. This satisfies
them immensely. If one were to closely look at the questionnaire, it is found that in most
cases there are stereotyped answers given by respondents. A researcher must be creative
and should look at problems in a different perspective.

4.12 CONCEPTS
The terms concepts and constructs though have similar meanings, yet there is some
difference between the two. A concepts is a word or set of words that express a general
idea concerning the nature of thing or the relations between things. Often providing a
category for the classification of phenomena. Concepts provide a means of ordering the
vast diversity of empherical phenomena. However concepts are not inherent in nature
itself but are man made for example personality, family, society, event, status, change,
growth etc. are all concepts.
Concepts are explained through definitions for example investor, carries many meaning,
corporate investor, retail investor, individual investor etc. so, it has to be explained through
clear definitions to avoid the misunderstanding of the concept of the research under
study.
The role of concepts is to establish some kind of link with the social world. Concepts are
regarded very imp. In the theoretical frame work that sets a context for the research, as
being involved in the statement of a research problem, hence it helps to specify what
type of data to be collected, from whom data to be collected etc.

4.13 CONSTRUCTS
A construct is a concept devised to aid in scientific analysis and generalization, thus a
construct is a concept with the added meaning of having been deliberately and consciously
invented or adopted for a special scientific purpose for example intelligence is a
concept and intelligence quotient (IQ) is a scientific construct, which enables behavioral
scientist to measure the intelligence of a person.

4.14 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

A theoretical framework is a collection of interrelated concepts, like a theory but not
necessarily so well worked-out. A theoretical framework guides your research,
determining what things you will measure, and what statistical relationships you will look
for.
Theoretical frameworks are obviously critical in deductive, theory-testing sorts of studies
(see Kinds of Research for more information). In those kinds of studies, the theoretical
framework must be very specific and well-thought out.
Surprisingly, theoretical frameworks are also important in exploratory studies, where
you really dont know much about what is going on, and are trying to learn more. There 31
Research Methods for are two reasons why theoretical frameworks are important here. First, no matter how
Management
little you think you know about a topic, and how unbiased you think you are, it is impossible
for a human being not to have preconceived notions, even if they are of a very general
nature. For example, some people fundamentally believe that people are basically lazy
and untrustworthy, and you have keep your wits about you to avoid being conned. These
fundamental beliefs about human nature affect how you look things when doing personnel
research. In this sense, you are always being guided by a theoretical framework, but you
dont know it. Not knowing what your real framework is can be a problem. The framework
tends to guide what you notice in an organization, and what you dont notice. In other
words, you dont even notice things that dont fit your framework! We can never
completely get around this problem, but we can reduce the problem considerably by
simply making our implicit framework explicit. Once it is explicit, we can deliberately
consider other frameworks, and try to see the organizational situation through different
lenses.

Check Your Progress

1. Problem well defined is half solved.AJustify it.

2. How theoretical frameworks are important in exploratory studies?

4.15 LET US SUM UP

Proper problem formulation is the key to success in research. It is vital and any error in
defining the problem incorrectly can result in wastage of time and money. Several
elements of introspection will help in defining the problem correctly.

4.16 KEYWORDS
Retailing
Cyber Marketing
FMCG
Advertising
Sales Promotion

4.17 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is a concept?
2. What is a construct?
3. What do you mean by theoretical framework in research?
4. What is a research problem?
5. What are the steps involved in formulating the problem?
6. What are the sources of problem?
7. What are the questions posed for self while formulating the problem?

4.18 SUGGESTED READINGS

32 S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, Marketing Research Text and Cases, All India Problems in Research
Traveller Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E., Marketing Research, a structure for decision-making, Addison-
Wesley Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R., Research Methodology - Methods and Techniques, Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics, D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.

33
UNIT-II
LESSON

5
HYPOTHESIS

CONTENTS
5.0 Aims and Objectives
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Meaning of Hypothesis
5.3 Sources of Hypothesis
5.4 Types of Hypothesis
5.4.1 Descriptive Hypothesis
5.4.2 Relational Hypothesis
5.4.3 Working Hypothesis
5.4.4 Null Hypothesis
5.4.5 Analytical Hypothesis
5.4.6 Statistical Hypothesis
5.4.7 Common Sense Hypothesis
5.5 Formulation of Research Design Types
5.6 Under what circumstances exploratory study is Ideal?
5.7 Hypothesis Development at Exploratory Research Stage
5.8 Exploratory Research Methods
5.8.1 Literature Search
5.8.2 Experience Survey
5.8.3 Focus Group
5.8.4 Analysis of Selected Cases
5.9 Conclusive Research
5.10 Let us Sum up
5.11 Lesson-end activity
5.12 Keywords
5.13 Questions for Discussion
5.14 Suggested Readings

5.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study the meaning, source and types of hypothesis and formulation
and types of research design. After studying this chapter you will be able to:
(i) define hypothesis.
(ii) describe source of hypothesis.
(iii) distinguish between different types of hypothesis.
Research Methods for (iv) formulate research design type
Management
(v) describe different methods of exploratory research.

5.1 INTRODUCTION
Inferences on population parameters are often made on the basis of sample observation.
In doing so, one has to take the help of certain assumptions or hypothetical values about
the characteristics of the population if some such information is available. Such hypothesis
about the population is termed as statistical hypothesis and the hypothesis is tested on the
basis of sample values. The procedure enables one to decide on a certain hypothesis and
test its significance.

5.2 MEANING OF HYPOTHESIS

A hypothesis is a tentative proposition relating to certain phenomenon, which the
researcher wants to verify when required.
If the researcher wants to infer something about the total population from which the
sample was taken, statistical methods are used to make inference. We may say that,
while a hypothesis is useful, it is not always necessary. Many a time, the researcher is
interested in collecting and analysing the data indicating the main characteristics without
a hypothesis. Also, a hypothesis may be rejected but can never be accepted except
tentatively. Further evidence may prove it wrong. It is wrong to conclude that since
hypothesis was not rejected it can be accepted as valid.
What is a null hypothesis?
A null hypothesis is a statement about the population, whose credibility or validity the
researcher wants to assess based on the sample.
A null hypothesis is formulated specifically to test for possible rejection or nullification.
Hence the name 'null hypothesis'. Null hypothesis always states "no difference". It is this
null hypothesis that is tested by the researcher.

5.3 SOURCES OF HYPOTHESIS

Hypothesis can be derived from many sources
1) Theory
2) Observation
3) Past experience
4) Case studies
5) Similarity
1) Theory: Theory on the subject can act as a source of hypothesis. We start of from
a general premise and then formulate hypothesis.
Example: Providing employment opportunity is an indicator of social responsibility of a
government enterprise. From the above several hypothesis, it can be deduced that:-
1) Public enterprise has greater social concern than other enterprises.
2) Peoples perception of government enterprise is social concern.
3) Govt. enterprise help in improving the life of less privileged people.
2) Observation: Peoples' behaviour is observed. In this method we use observed behaviour
to infer the attitudes. This an indirect method of attitude measurement. Direct observation
is used to get insights into research behaviour and other related issues.
Example: A shopper in a supermarket may be disguised, to watch the customer in the
stores. The following may be observed. (a) How the customer approaches the - Product
category, (b) How long he/she spends in front of display, (c) Whether the customer had
difficulty in locating the product. Collect all these data and formulate a hypothesis regarding
38 the behaviour of the customer towards the product.
3) Past experience: Here researcher goes by past experience to formulate the Hypothesis
hypothesis.
Example: A dealer may state that fastest moving kids apparel is frock. This may be
verified.
4) Case studies: Case studies published can be used as a source for hypothesis.
Normally this is done before the launch of a product to find customer taste and
preferences.
5) Similarity: This could be with respect to similarity in activities of human beings.
Example: Dress, food habits or any other activities found in human living in different
parts of the globe.

5.4 TYPES OF HYPOTHESIS

There are several basis on which hypothesis are classified
a. Descriptive Hypothesis
b. Relational Hypothesis
5.4.1 Descriptive Hypothesis
These by name implies describing some characteristics of an object, a situation, an
individual or even an organization
Example:
1. Students from autonomous institutions are placed faster than other institutions.
2. Research and practice of educations system in our country is not integrated.
3. Why do youngsters prefer "X" soft drinks?
4. Decentralization of decision-making is more effective.
The above description tells us the characteristics of some entity.
5.4.2 Relational Hypothesis
In this case, we describe relationship between 2 variables.
1. Why do rich people shop at life style?
2. Rate of attrition is high in those jobs where there is night shift working.
3. More cohesive is the group, better is the output.

5.4.3 Working Hypothesis

This is a hypothesis framed in the early stages of research. These are altered or modified
as investigation proceeds.
Example: As of now "demand and quality are related". Later on this may not be the fact
as investigation proceeds.

5.4.4 Null Hypothesis

This hypothesis states that there is no difference between the parameter and the statistic
that is being compared.
Example: There is no relationship between marks obtained in the examination and the
success of the same student in the corporate world. Null hypothesis are framed for
testing statistical significance. Null hypothesis is very exact.
5.4.5 Analytical Hypothesis
Here relationship of analytical variable is found. These are used when one would like to
specify the relationship between changes in one property leading to change in another.
Example: Income level related to number of children in the family or literacy related to
number of children in the family.
5.4.6 Statistical Hypothesis
These are got from samples that are measurable. Statistical hypothesis are of 2 types:
(a) Hypothesis which indicates differences. 39
Research Methods for Example: There is a difference between the performance of students graduating from
Management
English medium schools and those of others.
(b) Hypothesis which indicates association
Example: There is a perfect relationship between price and demand.

5.4.7 Common Sense Hypothesis

There are based on what is being observed. (1) Junior students are more disciplined than
seniors (2) Economically poor students work hard compared to those, who come from
well to do families (3) Middle class families lead a humble living. The above are observed
on a day to day basis over a period of time before drawing any conclusions.

5.5 FORMULATION OF RESEARCH DESIGN TYPES

Exploratory Research
The major emphasis in exploratory research is to convert broad, vague, problem statements
into small, precise sub problem statement, which is done in order to formulate specific
hypothesis. The hypothesis is a statement that specifies. "How two or more variables
are related?"
In the early stages of research, we usually lack sufficient understanding of the problem
to formulate a specific hypothesis. Further, there are often several tentative explanations.
Example: "Sales are down because our prices are too high". "Our dealers or sales
representatives are not doing a good job", "our advertisement is weak" and so on. In this
scenario, very little information is available to point out, which is the actual cause of the
problem. Therefore we can say that, the major purpose of exploratory research is to
identify the problem more specifically. Therefore exploratory study is used in initial stages
of the research.

5.6 UNDER WHAT CIRCUMSTANCES EXPLORATORY

STUDY IS IDEAL?
The following are the circumstances, exploratory study would be ideally suited.
l To gain insight into the problem.
l To generate new product ideas.
l To list all possibilities. Among the several possibilities, we need to prioritize the
possibilities which are seemingly likely.
l Some times to develop hypothesis.
l Exploratory study is also used to increase the analysts familiarity with the problem.
This is particularly true, when the analyst is new to the problem area. Example: A
market researcher working for a company for the first time (new entrant).
l To establish priorities so that further research can be conducted.
l Exploratory study, may be used to clarify concepts and help in formulating precise
problems. Example: Management is considering a change in the contract policy,
which it hopes, will result in improved channel members satisfaction. Exploratory
study can be used to clarify the present understanding and channel members
satisfaction and to develop a method by which satisfaction level of channel members
is measured.
l To pretest a draft questionnaire
l In general, exploratory research is appropriate to any problem about which very
40 little is known. This research is the foundation for future study.
 Hypothesis
5.7 HYPOTHESIS DEVELOPMENT AT EXPLORATORY
RESEARCH STAGE
At exploratory stage,
1. Sometimes it may not be possible to develop any hypothesis at all, if it is being
investigated for the first time. This is because no previous data is available.
2. Some times, some information may be available and it may be possible to formulate
a tentative hypothesis.
3. In some other cases, most of the data is available and it may be possible to provide
answer to the problem.
The examples given below indicates each of the above type:

Research Purpose Research Question Hypothesis

1) What product feature, if
What benefit do people derive No hypothesis formulation is
stated will be most effective in
from this Ad appeal? possible.
the advertisement?
2) What new packaging is to What alternatives are there to Paper cup is better than any
be developed by the company? provide a container for soft other forms, such a can or a
(with respect to a soft drink) drink? Bottle.
3) How can our insurance What is the nature of customer Impersonalization is the
service be improved? dissatisfaction? problem.

In example 1, research question is to determine "What benefit people seek from the
Ad?" Since no previous research is done on consumer benefit for this product, it is not
possible to form any hypothesis.
In example 2, currently some information is available about packaging for a soft drink.
Here it is possible to formulate a hypothesis which is purely tentative. The hypothesis
formulated here, may be only one of the several alternatives available.
In example 3, the root cause of customer dissatisfaction is known, i.e. lack of personalized
service. In this case, it is possible to verify whether this is a cause or not.

5.8 EXPLORATORY RESEARCH METHODS

The quickest and the cheapest way to formulate a hypothesis in exploratory research is
by using any of the four methods.
l Literature search
l Experience survey
l Focus group
l Analysis of selected cases

5.8.1 Literature Search

This refers to "Referring to a literature to develop a new hypothesis". The literature
referred are, trade journals, professional journals, market research finding publications,
statistical publications etc. Example: Suppose a problem is "Why sales are down?" This
can quickly be analysed with the help of published data which should indicate "Whether
the problem is an "Industry problem" or a "Firm problem". Three possibilities are there to
formulate the hypothesis.
41
Research Methods for 1. The company's market share has declined but industry is doing normal.
Management
2. The industry is declining and hence the company's market share is also declining.
3. The industry's share is going up but the company's share is declining.
If we accept the situation that, our company's sales are down despite the market having
upward trend, then we need to analyze the marketing mix variables.
Example 1: . A TV manufacturing company feels that its market share is declining
whereas the overall TV industry doing very well.
Example 2: . Due to trade embargo by a country, textiles export is down and hence sale
of company making garment for exports is on the decline.
The above information may be used to locate the reason for declining sales.

5.8.2 Experience Survey

In experience survey, it is desirable to talk to persons who are well informed in the area
being investigated. These people may be company executives or persons outside the
organization. Here no questionnaire is required. The approach adopted in an experience
survey should be highly unstructured, so that the respondent can give divergent views.
Since the idea of using experience survey is problem formulation, and not conclusion,
probability sample need not be used. Those who cannot speak freely should be excluded
from the sample.
Example 1: A group of housewives may be approached towards their choice for a
"Ready to cook product".
Example 2: A publisher might want to find out the reason for poor circulation of news
paper introduced recently. He might meet (a) News paper sellers (b) Public reading
room (c) General public (d) Business community etc.
These are experienced persons, whose knowledge researcher can use.

5.8.3 Focus Group

Another widely used technique in exploratory research is focus group. In focus group, a
small number of individuals are brought together to study and talk about some topic of
interest. The discussion is directed by a moderator. The group usually is of 8 - 12 persons.
While selecting these persons, care is to be taken to see that, these persons have a
common background and have similar experience in buying. This is required because,
there should not be a conflict among the group members, on the common issues that are
being discussed. During the discussion, future buying attitude, present buying opinion
etc., are gathered.
Most of the companies conducting the focus groups, first screen the candidates to
determine, who will compose the particular group. Firms also make sure to avoid groups,
in which, some of the participants have their friends and relatives, because this leads to
a biased discussion. Normally a number of such groups are constituted and the final
conclusion of various groups are taken for formulating the hypothesis. Therefore a key
factor, in focus group is to have similar groups. Normally there are 4-5 groups. Some of
them may even have 6 - 8 groups. The guiding criteria is to see, whether the latter
groups are generating additional ideas or repeating the same, with respect to subject
under study. When this shows a diminishing return from the group, the discussions are
stopped. The typical focus group lasts for 1:30 hours to 2 hours. The moderator, under
the focus group has a key role. His job is to guide the group, to proceed in the right
direction.
The following should be the characteristics of the moderator/facilitator:
Listening: He must have good listening ability. The moderator must not miss the
42 participants comment, due to lack of attention.
Permissive: Moderator must be permissive, yet alert to the signs that the group is Hypothesis
disintegrating.
Memory: He must have a good memory. The moderator must be able to remember the
comments of the participants. Example: Discussion is centered around a new advertisement
by a telecom company. The participant may make a statement early and make another
statement later, which is opposite to what was told earlier. Example: The participant may
say that he/she never subscribed to the views expressed in the advertisement by the
competitor, but subsequently may say that the "current advertisement of competitor is
excellent"
Encouragement: The moderator must encourage unresponsive members to participate.
Learning: He should be a quick learner.
Sensitivity: The moderator must be sensitive enough to guide the group discussion.
Intelligence: He must be a person whose intelligence is above average.
Kind / firm: He must combine detachment with empathy.
Variations of focus group
l Respondent moderator group: In this method, the moderator will select one of
the participant to act as moderator temporarily
l Dueling Moderator group: In this method there are two moderators. They
purposely take opposite position on a given topic. This will help the researcher to
get the views of both the group.
l Two way focus group: In this method, one group will listen to the other group.
Later the second group will react to the views of first group.
l Dual Moderator group: Here also there are two moderators. One moderator will
make sure that the discussion moves smoothly. Second moderator will ask specific
question.

5.8.4 Analysis of Selected Cases

Analysing a selected case, some times gives an insight into the problem which is being
researched. Case histories of the companies which have undergone a similar situation
may be available. These case studies are well suited to do exploratory research. However,
the result of investigation of case histories are always considered as suggestive, rather
than conclusive. In case of preference to "ready to eat food", many case histories may
be available in the form of previous study made by the competitors. We must carefully
examine the already published case study with regard to other variables such as price,
advertisement, changes in the taste etc.

5.9 CONCLUSIVE RESEARCH

Meaning: This is a research having clearly defined objectives. In this type of research,
specific courses of action is taken to solve the problem.
In conclusive research, there are two types
(a) Descriptive research
(b) Experimental research or Casual research.

Descriptive Research
Meaning
(a) The name itself tells that, it is essentially a research to describe something. Example:
It can describe, the characteristics of a group such as customers, organisation, 43
Research Methods for markets etc. Descriptive research provides "association between two variables".
Management
E.g. Income and place of shopping, age and preference.
(b) Descriptive study can tell us proportions of high and low income customer in a
particular territory. What descriptive research "cannot" indicate is that it cannot
establish cause and effect relationship between the characteristics of interest. This
is the one distinct disadvantage of descriptive research.
(c) Descriptive study requires a clear specification of "Who, what, when, where, why
and how" of the research. Example: Consider a situation of convenience stores
(food world) planning to open a new outlet. The company wants to determine,
"How people come to patronize a new outlet?" Some of the questions that need to
be answered before data collection for this descriptive study is as follows:
Who? Who is considered as a shopper responsible for the success of the shop, whose
demographic profile is required by the retailer.
What? What characteristics of the shopper should be measured?
Is it the age of the shopper, sex, income or residential address?
When? When shall we measure?
Should the measurement be made while the shopper is shopping or at a later time?
Where? Where shall we measure the shoppers?
"Should it be outside the stores, soon after they visit" or should we contact them at their
residence?
Why? Why do you want to measure them?
What is the purpose of measurement? Based on the information, are there any strategy
which will help the retailer to boost the sales? Does the retailer want to predict future
sales based on the data obtained.
Answer to some of the above questions will help us in formulating the hypothesis.
How to measure? "Is it a structured questionnaire", 'disguised' or 'undisguised'
questionnaire?
When to use descriptive study?
l To determine the characteristics of market such as
(a) Size of the market
(b) Buying power of the consumer
(c) Product usage pattern
(d) To find market share for the product
l To determine the association of the two variables such as Ad and sales.
l To make a prediction. We might be interested in sales forecasting for the next
three years, so that we can plan for training of new sales representatives.
l To estimate the proportion of people in a specific population, who behave in a
particular way. Example: What percentage of population in a particular geographical
location would be shopping in a particular shop.
Hypothesis study at descriptive research stage (To show characteristics of the group)
M anagement problem Research problem Hypothesis
Upper class buyers use
How should a new product be W here do customers buy a Shoppers Stop and middle
distributed? similar product right now? class buyers buy from local
departmental stores .
Senior citizens buy our product.
W hat will be the target W hat kind of people buys our
Young and married buy our
44 segment? product now?
competitors products.
Types of descriptive studies: There are two types of descriptive research, Hypothesis

(a) Longitudinal study

(b) Cross sectional study
(a) Longitudinal Study: These are the studies in which an event or occurrence is
measured again and again over a period of time. This is also known as 'Time Series
Study'. Through longitudinal study, the researcher knows " How market changes
over time".
Longitudinal studies involve panels. Panel constituted, will have elements. These
elements may be individuals, stores, dealers etc. The panel or sample remains
constant throughout the period of the study. There may be some drop-outs and
additions. The sample members in panel are measured repeatedly. The periodicity
of the study may be monthly or quarterly etc. There are 2 types of panels.
l True panel
l Omni bus panel.
True panel: This involves repeat measurement of the same variables. Example:
Perception towards frozen pea or iced tea. Each member of the panel are examined at
different time, to arrive at a conclusion on the above subject.
Omni bus panel: In omni bus panel also, a sample of elements is selected and maintained,
but the information collected from the member varies. At a certain point of time, attitude
of panel members "towards an advertisement" may be measured. At some other point of
time the same panel member may be questioned about the "product performance".
Advantages of panel data
l We can find out what proportion of those who bought our brand and those who did
not. This is computed using brand switching matrix.
l The study also helps to identify and target the group which needs promotional
effort.
l Panel members are willing persons, hence lot of data can be collected. This is
because, becoming a member of a panel is purely voluntary.
l The greatest advantage of panel data is that, it is analytical in nature.
l panel data is more accurate than cross sectional data because, it is free from the
error associated with reporting past behavior. Errors occur in past behavior because
of time that has elapsed or forgetfulness.
Disadvantages of panel data
l The sample may not be a non representative. This is because, some times, panels
may be selected on account of convenience.
l The panel members, who provide the data, may not be interested to continue as
panel members. There could be dropouts, migration etc. Replacement member
may not be a replica of the original member.
l Reward given to panel members may not be attractive. Therefore people may not
like to be panel members.
l Some times the panel members may show disinterest and non commitment.
l Lengthy membership in a panel, cause respondents to start thinking that, they are
experts and professionals. They may start responding like experts and consultants
and not like respondents. To avoid this, no one should be retained as a member for
more than 6 months.
45
Research Methods for (b) Cross Sectional Study: Cross sectional study is one of the most important types of
Management
descriptive research, it can be done in two ways
l Field study
l Field survey
Field study: Includes a depth study. Field study involves in-depth study of a problem
such as reaction of young men and women towards a product. Example: Reaction of
Indian men towards branded ready to wear suit. Field study is carried out in real world
environment settings. Test marketing is an example of field study.
Field survey: Large sample is the feature of the study. The biggest limitation of this
survey is cost and time. Also if the respondent is cautious, then he might answer the
questions in a different manner. Finally field survey requires good knowledge like
constructing questionnaire, sampling techniques used etc.
Example: Suppose the management believes that geographical factor is an important
attribute in determining the consumption of a product. Sales of a woolen wear in a
particular location. Suppose that the proposition to be examined is that, urban population
is more likely to use the product, than the semi urban population. This hypothesis can be
examined in a cross sectional study. Measurement can be taken from a representative
sample of the population in both geographical location with respect to the occupation and
use the products. In case of tabulation, researcher can count the number of cases that
fall into each of the following classes:
l Urban population who use of the product - Category I
l Semi-urban population who use of the product - Category II
l Urban population who do not use the product - Category III
l Semi-urban population who do not use the product - Category IV
Here, we should know that, if the hypothesis is to be supported and tested by the sample
data i.e. Proportion of urbanities using the product should exceed the Semi urban population
using the product.

5.10 LET US SUM UP

The chapter deals with two types of research namely exploratory research and descriptive
research Exploratory research helps the researcher to become familiar with the problem.
It helps to establish the priorities for further research. It may or may not be possible to
formulate Hypothesis during exploratory stage. To get an insight into the problem, literature
search, experience surveys, focus groups, and selected case studies assist in gaining
insight into the problem. The role of moderator or facilitator is extremely important in
focus group. There are several variations in the formation of focus group.
Descriptive research is rigid. This type of research is basically dependent on hypothesis.
Descriptive research is used to describe the characteristics of the groups. It can also be
used forecasting or prediction. Panel data is used in longitudinal studies. There are 2
different types of panels. True panel and Omni bus panel.
In true panel same measurement are made during period of time. In Omni bus panel
different measurement are made during a period of time. Cross sectional studies involves
field study and field survey, the difference being the size of sample.
What hypothesis would you use in the following situation?
An automobile company has manufacturing facility at two different models. The customer
wants to know if the milage given by both the models is the same or not.

5.11 LESSON-END ACTIVITY

What hypothesis would you use in the following situation?
An automobile company has manufacturing facility at two different models. The customer
46
wants to know if the milage given by both the models is the same or not.
 Hypothesis
5.12 KEYWORDS
Exploratory research
Descriptive research
Conclusive research
Focus group
Moderator
Longitudinal study
Cross sectional study
True panel
Omni bus panel
Field study
Field survey

5.13 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What are the types , sources and characteristics of hypothesis?
2. Why is research design necessary to conduct a study?
3. What are the various types of research design? Explain with examples.
4. What is exploratory research? Give example, under what circumstances, exploratory
research is ideal?
5. What are the sources available for data collection at exploratory stage?
6. What are the different variations in the focus group?
7. What are the characteristics that a moderator should possess while conducting the
focus group?
8. What are the uses of descriptive research and when will it be used?
9. What are the various types of descriptive studies?
10. What are the Longitudinal and Cross Sectional Studies?
11. Describe the various types of panels and its use.
12. What is a Sample survey? What are its benefits:
13. What are the various types of cross sectional studies? What are the benefits and
limitations of each?
14. Distinguish exploratory from descriptive research.
15. What are the advantages and disadvantages of panel data?

5.14 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Festinger, Leon and Katz, Daniel, Research Methods in the Behavioural Sciences,
New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston.
Fox, David J, The Research Process in Education, New York: Holt, Rinehart and
Winston.
47
Research Methods for Green, Paul, and Tull, Donald, Research for marketing decisions, Englewood, N.J.,
Management
Prentice-Hall.
Selltiz, Claire et al., Research Methods in Social Relations, New York: Holt, Rinehart
and Winston.

48
 Causal Research
LESSON

6
CAUSAL RESEARCH
CONTENTS
6.0 Aims and Objectives
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Causal Research or Experimental Research
6.2.1 Test Units
6.2.2 Explanatory Variable
6.2.3 Dependent Variable
6.2.4 Extraneous Variable
6.3 Types of Extraneous Variables
6.3.1 History
6.3.2 Maturation
6.3.3 Testing
6.3.4 Instrument Variation
6.3.5 Selection Bias
6.3.6 Experimental Mortality
6.4 Concomitant Variable
6.5 Systematic Approach to Solve a Research Problem
6.6 Experimental Designs
6.6.1 After Only Design
6.6.2 Before-After Design
6.6.3 Factorial Design
6.6.4 Latin Square Design
6.6.5 Expost Facto Design
6.7 Let us Sum up
6.8 Lesson-end Activity
6.9 Keywords
6.10 Questions for Discussion
6.11 Suggested Readings

6.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we study the systematic approach in solving a research problem variables
of which establish the cause and effect relationship. After studying this lesson you will
be able to:
(i) understand what is causal research.
(ii) solve the research problem systematically.
49
(iii) describe different types of experimental designs.
Research Methods for
Management 6.1 INTRODUCTION
Causal research establishes cause and effect relationship between the variables. In this
type of research, there are three types of variables: explanatory variables, dependent
variables and extraneous variables. To find the causal relationship between the variables,
the researcher has to do an experiment. All these are studied in detail, in this lesson.

6.2 CAUSAL RESEARCH OR EXPERIMENTAL

RESEARCH
Descriptive research, will suggest the relationship if any between the variable, but it will
not establish cause and effect relationship between the variable. Example: The data
collected may show that the no. of people who own a car and their income has risen
over a period of time. Despite this, we cannot say No. of car increase is due to rise in
the income. May be, improved road conditions or increase in number of banks offering
car loans have caused in increase in the ownership of cars.
(a) Sometimes, marketing manager wants to draw certain conclusions such as:
(1) Impact of retail price on sales
(2) Effect of Advertising on the sales of a product
(3) Effect of improved packing on sales.
To find the causal relationship between the variables, the researcher has to do an
experiment.
Examples of experimentation:
l Which print advertisement is more effective? Is it front page, middle page or the
last page?
l Among several promotional measure, such as Advertisement, personal selling,
which one is more effective?
l Can we increase sales of our product by obtaining additional shelf space?
(b) What is experimentation? It is research process in which one or more variables are
manipulated, which shows the cause and effect relationship. Experimentation is
done to find out the effect of one factor on the other. The different elements of
experiment are explained below.

Input Output

Test units

Explanatory variable Dependent variable

(Independent variable)

6.2.1 Test Units

These are units, on which the experiment is carried out. It is done, with one or more
independent variables controlled by a person to find out its effect, on a dependent variable.
6.2.2 Explanatory Variable
These are the variables whose effects, researcher wishes to examine Example:
50 Explanatory variables may be advertising, pricing, packaging etc.
6.2.3 Dependent Variable Causal Research

This is a variable which is under study. Example: Sales, Consumer attitude, Brand loyalty
etc.
Example: Suppose a particular colour TV manufacturer reduces the price of the TV by
20%. Assume that his reduction is passed on to the consumer and expect the sales will
go up by 15% in next 1 year. This types of experiments are done by leading TV companies
during festival season
The causal research finds out, whether the price reduction causes an increase in sales.
6.2.4 Extraneous Variables
These are also called as blocking variables Extraneous variables affects, the result of
the experiments.
Example 1: Suppose a toffee manufacturing company is making an attempt to measure
the response of the buyers, on two different types of packaging, at two different locations.
The manufacturer needs to keep all other aspects the same, for each buyers group. If
the manufacturer allows the extraneous variable namely the "Price", to vary between
the two buyer groups, then he will not be sure, as to which particular packaging is
preferred by the consumers. Here prices change is an extraneous factor.
There are two possible courses of action with respect to extraneous variables.
Extraneous variables may be physically controlled. Example: Price in the above example.
In the second category, extraneous variables may be totally out of control of the researcher.
In this case, we say that the experiment has been confounded i.e., it is not possible to
make any conclusions with regard to that experiment. Such a variable is called as
"Confounding variables".
Example 2: Company introduces a product in two different cities. They would like to
know the impact of their advertising on sales. Simultaneously competitors product in one
of the cities is not available during this period due to strike in the factory. Now researcher
cannot conclude that sales of their product in that city has increased due to advertisement.
Therefore this experiment is confounded. In this case, strike is the confounding variable.

6.3 TYPES OF EXTRANEOUS VARIABLES

The following are the various types:
l History
l Maturation
l Testing
l Instrument variation
l Selection bias
l Experimental mortality

6.3.1 History
History refers to those events, external to the experiment, but occurs at the same time,
as the experiment is being conducted. This may affect the result. Example: Let us say
that, a manufacture makes a 20% cut in the price of a product and monitors sales in the
coming weeks. The purpose of the research, is to find the impact of price on sales.
Mean while if the production of the product declines due to shortage of raw materials,
then the sales will not increase. Therefore, we cannot conclude that the price cut, did not
have any influence on sales because the history of external events have occurred during
the period and we cannot control the event. The event can only be identified.

6.3.2 Maturation
Maturation is similar to history. Maturation specifically refers to changes occurring
within the test units and not due to the effect of experiment. Maturation takes place
due to passage of time. Maturation refers to the effect of people growing older. People 51
Research Methods for may be using a product. They may discontinue the product usage or switch over to
Management
alternate product.
Example 1: Pepsi is consumed when young. Due to passage of time the consumer
becoming older, might prefer to consume Diet pepsi or even avoid it.
Example 2: Assume that training programme is conducted for sales man, the company
wants to measure the impact of sales programme. If the company finds that, the sales
have improved, it may not be due to training programme. It may be because, sales man
have more experience now and know the customer better. Better understanding between
sales man and customer may be the cause for increased sales.
Maturation effect is not just limited to test unit, composed of people alone. Organizations
also changes, dealers grow, become more successful, diversify, etc.

6.3.3 Testing
Pre testing effect occurs, when the same respondents are measured more than once.
Responses given at a later part will have a direct bearing on the responses given during
earlier measurement.
Example: Consider a respondent, who is given an initial questionnaire, intended to
measure brand awareness. After exposing him, if a second questionnaire similar to the
initial questionnaire is given to the respondent, he will respond quiet differently, because
of respondent's familiarity with the earlier questionnaire.
Pretest suffers from internal validity. This can be understood through an example. Assume
that a respondent's opinion is measured before and after the exposure to a TV commercial
of Hyundai car with Shahrukh Khan as brand ambassador. When the respondent is
replying the second time, He may remember, how he rated Hyundai during the first
measurement. He may give the same rating to prove that, he is consistent. In that case,
the difference between the two measurements will reveal nothing about the real impact.
Alternately some of respondents might give a different rating during second measurement.
This may not be due to the fact that the respondent has changed his opinion about
Hyundai and the brand ambassador. He has given different rating because, he does not
want to be identified as a person with no change of opinion to the said commercial.
In both the cases of above, internal validity suffers.

6.3.4 Instrument Variation

Instrument variation effect is a threat to internal validity when human respondents are
involved. Example: An equipment such as a vacuum cleaner is left behind, for the customer
to use for two weeks. After two weeks the respondents are given a questionnaire to
answer. The reply may be quite different from what was given by the respondent before
the trail of the product. This may be because of two reasons.
(1) Some of the questions have been changed
(2) Change in the interviewer for pre testing and post testing are different
The measurement in experiments will depend upon the instrument used to measure.
Also results may vary due to application of instruments, where there are several
interviewers. Thus, it is very difficult to ensure that all the interviewers will ask the same
questions with the same tone and develop the same rapport. There may be difference in
response, because each interviewer conducts the interview differently.

6.3.5 Selection Bias

Selection bias occurs because 2 groups selected for experiment may not be identical. If
the 2 groups are asked various questions, they will respond differently. If multiple groups
52 are participating, this error will occur. There are two promotional advertisement A & B
for "Ready to eat food". The idea is to find effectiveness of the two advertisements. Causal Research

Assume that the respondent exposed to 'A' are dominant users of the product. Now
suppose 50% of those who saw 'Advertisement A' bought the product and only 10% of
those who saw 'Advertisement B' bought the product. From the above, one should not
conclude that advertisement 'A' is more effective than advertisement 'B'. The main
difference may be due to food preference habits between the groups, even in this case,
internal validity might suffer but to a lesser degree.

6.3.6 Experimental Mortality

Some members may leave the original group and some new members join the old group.
This is because some members might migrate to another geographical area. This change
in the members will alter the composition of the group.
Example: Assume that a vacuum cleaner manufacturer wants to introduce a new
version. He interviews hundred respondents who are currently using the older version.
Let us assume that, these 100 respondents have rated the existing vacuum cleaner on
a 10 point scale (1 for lowest and 10 for highest). Let the mean rating of the respondents
be 7.
Now the newer version is demonstrated to the same hundred respondents and equipment
is left with them for 2 months. At the end of two months only 80 participant respond,
since the remaining 20 refused to answer. Now if the mean score of 80 respondents is 8
on the same 10 point scale. From this can we conclude that the new vacuum cleaner is
better?
The answer to the above question depends on the composition of 20 respondents who
dropped out. Suppose the 20 respondents who dropped out had negative reaction to the
product, then the mean score would not have been 8. It may even be lower than 7. The
difference in mean rating does not give true picture. It does not indicate that the new
product is better than the old product.
One might wonder, why not we leave the 20 respondent from the original group and
calculate the mean rating of the remaining 80 and compare. But this method also will not
solve the mortality effect. Mortality effect will occur in an experiment irrespective of
whether the human beings or involved or not.

6.4 CONCOMITANT VARIABLE

Concomitant variable is the extent to which a cause "X" and the effect "Y" Vary together
in a predicted manner.
Example 1: Electrical car is new to India. People may or may not hold positive attitude
about electrical cars. Assume that, the company has undertaken a new advertising
campaign "To change the attitude of the people towards this car", so that the sale of this
car can increase. Suppose, in testing the result of this campaign, the company finds that
both aims have been achieved i.e., the attitude of the people towards electrical car has
become positive and also the sales have increased. Then we can say that there is a
concomitant variation between attitude and sales. Both variables move in the same
direction.
Example 2: Assume that an education institute introduces a new elective which it
claims is Job oriented. The college authorities advertise this course in leading news
paper. They would like to know the perception of students to this course, and how
many are willing to enroll. Now if on testing, it is found the perception towards this
course is positive and majority of the respondent are willing to enroll, then we can say
that, there is a concomitant variation between perception and enrolment. Both variables
move in the same direction.
53
Research Methods for
Management 6.5 SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO SOLVE A RESEARCH
PROBLEM
Example: State transport authorities are seeking to understand: Why is it the number
of people travelling by particular bus route has declined suddenly? The first step is
exploratory research. It can be due to any one of the following reasons:
l Bad weather
l Fares have increased
l Frequency of the bus is poor
l Bus condition is bad
l Duration of the journey is more relative to other means of transport
First step: By process of elimination proceed as follows:
Check the weather records from meteorological department, for that period, when the
occupancy declined. If no change, eliminate weather as the cause and so on.
Second step: Meet the commuters to know "the factor which they think is most important".
If the passengers are not sensitive to fare or frequency, proceed to the next step. Step-
2 Information can be collected by designing a small questionnaire.
Third step: is causal research. Under causal research, the researcher will find out
"How one variable influences the other?" In this case, he can test, to find out, whether
duration of the journey and the number of people traveling are related to each other.

6.6 EXPERIMENTAL DESIGNS

The various experimental designs are as follows:
l After only design
l Before - after design
l Factorial design
l Latin square design
l Expost facto design

6.6.1 After Only Design

In this design, dependent variable is measured, after exposing the test units to the
experimental variable. This can be understood with the help of following example.
Assume M/s Hindustan Lever Ltd. wants to conduct an experiment on "Impact of free
sample on the sale of toilet soaps". A small sample of toilet soap is mailed to a selected
set of customers in a locality. After one month, 25 paise off on one cake of soap coupon
is mailed to each of the customers to whom free sample has been sent earlier. An equal
number of these coupons are also mailed, to people in another similar locality in the
neighborhood. The coupons are coded, to keep an account of the number of coupons
redeemed from each locality. Suppose, 400 coupons were redeemed from the experimental
group and 250 coupons are redeemed from the control group. The difference of 150 is
supposed to be the effect of the free samples. In this method conclusion can be drawn
only after conducting the experiment.

6.6.2 Before-After Design

In this method, measurements are made before as well as after.
Example: Let us say that, an experiment is conducted to test an advertisement which is
54 aimed at reducing the alcoholism.
Attitude and perception towards consuming liquor is measured before exposure to Ad. Causal Research
The group is exposed to an advertisement, which tells them the consequences, and
attitude is again measured after several days. The difference, if any, shows the
effectiveness of advertisement.
The above example of "Before-after" suffers from validity threat due to the following.
Before measure effect
It alerts the respondents to the fact that they are being studied. The respondents may
discuss the topics with friends and relatives and change their behaviour.
Instrumentation effect
This can be due to two different instruments being used, one before and one after,
change in the interviewers before and after, results in instrumentation effect.

6.6.3 Factorial Design

Factorial design permits the researcher to test two or more variables at the same time.
Factorial design helps to determine the effect of each of the variables and also measure
the interacting effect of the several variables.
Example: A departmental store wants to study the impact of price reduction for a
product. Given that, there is also promotion (POP) being carried out in the stores
(a) near the entrance (b) at usual place, at the same time. Now assume that there are
two price levels namely regular price A1 and reduced price A2. Let there be three types
of POP namely B1, B2, & B3. There are 32=6 combinations possible. The combinations
possible are B1A1, B1A2, B2A1, B2A2, B3A1, B3A2. Which of these combinations is
best suited is what the researcher is interested. Suppose there are 60 departmental
stores of the chain divided into groups of 10 stores. Now, randomly assign the above
combination to each of these 10 stores as follows:
Combinations Sales
B1A1 S1
B1A2 S2
B2A1 S3
B2A2 S4
B3A1 S5
B3A2 S6

S1 TO S6 represents the sales resulting out of each variable. The data gathered will
provide details on product sales on account of two independent variables.
The two questions that will be answered are.
Is the reduced price more effective than regular price?
Is the display at the entrance more effective than the display at usual location? Also the
research will tell us about the interaction effect of the two variables.
Out come of the experiment on sales is as follows:
1. Price reduction with display at the entrance.
2. Price reduction with display at usual place.
3. No display and regular price applicable
4. Display at the entrance with regular price applicable.

6.6.4 Latin Square Design

Researcher chooses 3 shelf arrangements in three stores. He would like to observe the
sales generated in each stores at different period. Researcher must make sure that one
type of shelf arrangement is used in each store only once.
55
Research Methods for In Latin square design, only one variable is tested. As an example of Latin square design
Management
assume that a super market chain is interested in the effect of in store promotion on
sales. Suppose there are 3 promotions considered as follows.
1 - No promotion
2 - Free sample with demonstration
3 - Window display
Which of the 3 will be effective? The out come may be affected by the size of the stores
and the time period. If we choose 3 stores and 3 time periods, the total number of
combination is 3 3 = 9. The arrangement is as follows
Store
Time period
1 2 3
1 B C A
2 C A B
3 A B C

Latin square is concerned with effectiveness of each kind of promotion on sales.

6.6.5 Expost Facto Design

This is a variation of "after only design". The groups such as experiment and control are
identified only after they are exposed to the experiment.
Let us assume that a magazine publisher wants to know the impact of advertisement on
knitting in 'Women's Era' magazine. The subscribers of magazines are asked whether
they have seen this advertisement on "knitting". Those who have read and not read, are
asked about the price, design etc. of the product. The difference indicates the effectiveness
of advertisement. In this design, the experimental group is set to receive the treatment
rather than exposing it to the treatment by its choice.

6.7 LET US SUM UP

This chapter deals with causal research design. Causal research is conducted mainly to
prove the fact that one factor "X" the cause was responsible for the effect "Y". While
conducting experiment, the researcher must guard against extraneous source of error.
This may confound the experiment. Some of the extraneous factors, affecting the experiments
are history, maturation, testing instrument, selection bias and experimental mortality
concomitant variation refers to the extent to which variable X is related to variable "Y".
Also it is to be understood that no one type of research can solve all the problems. All 3
type of research need to be put into use to solve the problem, in the order of exploratory,
descriptive and causal. There are several experimental design such as Latin square design,
Factorial design etc. each of which is used by the researcher under a particular
circumstances. Latin square is appropriate when 2 extraneous factors are there, which
causes distortion of results. Factorial design involves only one experimental variable.
Research design is affected by various types of errors such as sampling and non sampling
error. At the end of the chapter, system approach to research design is diagrammatically
shown.

6.8 LESSON END ACTIVITY

You are the manager of product planning and marketing research for a home appliances
stores. Your company is considering a proposal to manufacture and market an emergency
lamp in which segment the company currently does not have any product. You have
assigned this project to one of your subordinates.
56 (i) Is this an exploratory, descriptive, or a causal study?
(ii) What data would be useful for deciding whether to develop an emergency lamp or Causal Research
not?
(iii) How will you design a study to obtain the needed data?

6.9 KEYWORDS
Causal research
Explanatory variable
Dependent variable
Independent variable
Extraneous variable
Maturation History
Selection Bias
Experiment Mortality
Concomitant variable
Expost facto design
Latin square design
Factorial design
Instrumentation effect

6.10 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is causal research? Give Example.
2. What is experimentation? Give Example.
3. What are Extraneous variables and Explanatory variables? Give Example.
4. What are Confounding and Concomitant variable. Give Example.
5. Explain briefly:
(a) After only design
(b) Before after design
(c) Factorial design
(d) Latin square design
6. What are the positive and negative aspects of a laboratory experiment?
7. What are the limitation of experimentation?
8. What is the difference between a laboratory experiment and field experiment?
9. What is a test unit give example?
10. Explain the advantages of experimental design.
11. What are the various extraneous variables which affect internal validity?
12. Explain each of the following with examples:
(a) Maturation
(b) History
57
Research Methods for (c) Instrument variation.
Management
(d) Mortality
13. What is expost facto design. Explain with an example.
14. What type of research is used to solve the following problems:
(a) Study on declining sales in a Geographical territory.
(b) Study to choose location for establishing a shopping mall.
(c) To estimate the demand for computer for the next 10 yrs.
15. Which type of research is used to solve which kind of market research problem?
16. What type of data collection would you recommend for each type of research?

6.11 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E., "Marketing Research, a structure for decision-making", Addison-Wesley
Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R., "Research Methodology - Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.

58
LESSON

7
CONCEPT OF MEASUREMENT

CONTENTS
7.0 Aims and Objectives
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Features of a Good Design
7.3 Meaning of Measurement
7.4 Errors in Measurement
7.5 Tests of Sound Measurement
7.6 Techniques of Measurement
7.7 Sample Questionnaire Items for Attitude Measurement
7.8 Let us Sum up
7.9 Lesson-end Activity
7.10 Keywords
7.11 Questions for Discussion
7.12 Suggested Readings

7.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study meaning, errors and techniques of measurement. After study
this lesson you will be able to:
(i) understand meaning of and error in measurement.
(ii) construct sample questionnaire for attitude measurement.
(iii) know basic techniques of measurement.

7.1 INTRODUCTION
It is easy to measure quantitative data but difficult to do so if the data is qualitative or of
abstract type. In case of measurement of attitude, the data belong to the abstract or
qualitative type. To measure qualitative data or attitude we use scaling technique. To
recruit a new incumbent and to evaluate human relations in factories, industries and
different organizations, measurement of attitude in indispensable.

7.2 FEATURS OF A GOOD DESIGN

1. Various sources of obtaining the information is to be clear.
2. Should be clear with the availability of information and skills of the researcher.
3. Availability of time and money for the research work must be sufficient.
Research Methods for 4. It should be flexible, appropriate, efficient and economical.
Management
5. Design should help to obtain maximum information and to solve the research problem.

7.3 MEANING OF MEASUREMENT

Measurement is a process of mapping aspects of domain into other aspects of a range
according to some rule of correspondence. Researcher may use different scales to
measure the objects, scales differ from object to object, which are discussed earlier.

7.4 ERRORS IN MEASUREMENT

(a) Respondent: respondent may not be willing to share some sensitive information
with the researcher. He may not be knowledgeable to answer the researchers
questions. These things may affects the measurement.
(b) Situation: situation factors may also affects the measurement. For example ladies
may not be willing to share some personal matters in front of others.
(c) Measurer: errors may also creep in because of faulty analysis, tabulation, statistical
calculation etc.
(d) Instrument: tools used for measurement is also a source of error, if it is not
compatible to the data, researcher intend to collect.

7.5 TESTS OF SOUND MEASUREMENT

1. Validity: validity is the most critical criterion and indicates the degree to which an
instrument measures what it is supposed to measure. Validity can also be thought
of as utility.
2. Reliability: reliability means, measuring instrument should provide consistent results,
even if it is measured repeatedly.
3. Practicality: measuring instrument must be economical and easy to use by the
researcher. That means, researcher must be able to measure what he intends to
measure.

7.6 TECHNIQUES OF MEASUREMENT

(a) concept development
(b) specification of concept dimension
(c) selection of indicators
(d) formation of index
First technique of measurement is to develop a concept, researcher intend to study. It
means to arrive at an understanding about the topic to be measured. Second step is to
specify the dimension of the topic, for instance if the study is on investor behavior, what
type of investor is it retail investor or corporate investor etc. is to be specified. Third is to
select what indicators to be studied in the specific dimension of the topic. Fourth is to
form index.

7.7 SAMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE ITEMS FOR ATTITUDE

MEASUREMENT
1. Do you think that expenditure on training is wasteful? (Give your answer selecting
any one from the given alternatives).
60 a. To a large extent
 b. To some extent Concept of Measurement

c. To a very little extent

d. Not at all
2. What, to your knowledge, are the major barriers to effective implementation of
flexible working hours in India? (Please arrange the factors in order of your
perceived preference).
a. Lack of awareness
b. Difficulty in implementation
c. Supervisory problems
d. Lack of support from workers
e. Lack of support from unions
f. Production problems
g. Any other (please specify)
The first questionnaire item (which reflects the attitude of a person regarding training)
can be evaluated by adding the weighted value of individual response. How to give
weight against questionnaire items has been explained in Scaling and Attitude Measurement
part of this lesson.
Measurement can be made using nominal, ordinal, interval or ratio scale, details of which
will be discussed in the next lesson.

Check Your Progress

A valid measurement is reliable, but a reliable measurement may not be valid. Give
your own argument.

7.8 LET US SUM UP

Attitude measurement focuses on feelings and motives of the employees opinions about
their working environments measurement is a process of mapping aspects of into other
aspects of a range according to some rule of correspondence. There are mainly four
sources of errors in measurement - respondent, situation, measure and instrument. Scaling
techniques are used for measurement of attitude.

7.9 LESSON-END ACTIVITY

Give your opinion about the following statement: Validity is more crucial than reliability.

7.10 KEYWORDS
Attitude
Cognitive attitude
Affective attitude
Attitude measurement
Scaling techniques

61
Research Methods for
Management 7.11 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. What is attitude?
2. Discuss the various sources of attitude measurement.
3. List scales used in measurement.
4. What are the criteria for testing sound measurement?

7.12 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Cochran, William G., Sampling Techniques, New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Conway, Freda, Sampling: An Introduction for Social Scientists, London: George
Allen and Unwin.
Deming, W.E., Sample Design in Business Research, New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Kaltan, Graham, Introduction to Survey Sampling, Beverly Hills, Calif: Sage.
Kish, Leslie, Survey Sampling, New York: John Wiley & Son.
Raj, Des, The Design of Sample Surveys, New York: McGraw-Hill.
Yates, Frank, Sampling Methods for Censuses and Surveys, New York: Hafner.

62
LESSON

8
SCALING TECHNIQUES

CONTENTS
8.0 Aims and Objectives
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Types of Scale
8.2.1 Nominal Scale
8.2.2 Ordinal Scale (Ranking Scale)
8.2.3 Interval Scale
8.2.4 Ratio Scale
8.3 Scale Construction Techniques
8.3.1 Paired Comparison
8.3.2 Likert Scale
8.3.3 Semantic Differential Scale
8.3.4 Thurstone Scale
8.4 Let us Sum up
8.5 Lesson-end Activity
8.6 Keywords
8.7 Questions for Discussion
8.8 Suggested Readings

8.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This lesson is intended to discuss different scaling techniques for measurement of attitude.
After studying this lesson you would be able to:
(i) describe four widely accepted measurement scales.
(ii) construct various scales.

8.1 INTRODUCTION
In case of measurement of attitude, the data belongs to the abstract or qualitative type.
There are four widely accepted levels of measurement called measurement scale. These
are: nominal, ordinal, interval and ratio scales.
From the view point of data, nominal scale to ratio scale, all the four scales are in
increasing order of sophistication.
These measurement scales assist in designing survey methods for the purpose of collecting
relevant data.
Research Methods for
Management 8.2 TYPES OF SCALE
(a) Nominal scale
(b) Ordinal scale
(c) Interval scale
(d) Ratio scale

8.2.1 Nominal Scale

In this scale, numbers are used to identify the objects. E.g. University Registration
numbers assigned to students, numbers on jerseys, of sports personal.
Examples:
Have you ever visited Bangalore?
Yes-1
No-2
Yes is coded as One and No is coded as Two. Numeric attached to the answers
has no meaning, it is a mere identification. If numbers are interchanged as one for No
and two for Yes, it wont affect the answers given by the respondents. Numbers used
in nominal scales serves only counting.
Telephone number is an example of nominal scale, where one number is assigned to one
subscriber. The idea of using nominal scale is to make sure that no two persons or
objects receive the same number. Bus route numbers are example of nominal scale.
How old are you? This is an example of nominal scale.
What is your PAN Card No?
Arranging the books in the library, subjectwise, authorwise we use nominal scale.
Example: Physics- 48, Chemistry 92 etc.
Limitations:
(a) There is no rank ordering
(b) No mathematical operation is possible
(c) Statistical implication Calculation of standard deviation and mean is not possible.
It is possible to express mode.

8.2.2 Ordinal Scale (Ranking scale)

Ordinal scale is used for ranking in most market research studies. Ordinal scales are
used to find consumer perception, preferences etc. E.g. Consumer may be given a list of
brands which will suit and expect them to rank on the basis of ordinal scale.
l Lux
l Liril
l Cinthol
l Lifebuoy
l Hamam
Rank Item Number of respondents
I Cinthol 150
II Liril 300
III Hamam 250
IV Lux 200
V Lifebuoy 100
64 Total 1,000
In the above example, II is mode and III is median. Scaling Techniques

Statistical implications: It is possible to calculate mode and median.

In market research, we often ask the respondents to rank say, "A soft drink, based upon
flavour or colour". In such a case, ordinal scale is used. Ordinal scale is a ranking scale.
Rank the following attributes of 1 - 5 scale according to the importance in the microwave
oven.
Attributes Rank
A) Company image 5
B) Functions 3
C) Price 2
D) Comfort 1
E) Design 4

Difference between nominal and ordinal scales:

In nominal scale numbers can be interchanged, because it serves only for counting.
Numbers in Ordinal scale has meaning and it won't allow interchangeability.
8.2.3 Interval Scale
Interval scale is more powerful than nominal and ordinal scale. The distance given on
the scale represents equal distance on the property being measured. Interval scale may
tell us "How far apart the objects are with respect to an attribute?" This means that, the
difference can be compared. The difference between "1" and "2" is equal to the difference
between "2" and "3".
Example 1: Suppose we want to measure the rating of a refrigerator using interval
scale. It will appear as follows:
1. Brand name Poor ----------------- Good
2. Price High ----------------- Low
3. Service after sales Poor ----------------- Good
4. Utility Poor ----------------- Good
The researcher cannot conclude that the respondent who gives a rating of 6 is 3 times
more favourable towards a product under study than another respondent who awards
the rating of 2.
Example 2: How many Hours do you spend to do class assignment every day.
< 30 min.
30 min. to 1 hr.
1hr. to 1 hrs.
> 1 hrs.
Statistical implications: We can compute the range, mean, median etc.
Difference between interval and ordinal scales:
Ordinal scale gives only the ranking of the alternatives viz.., one is greater than the other,
but it won't give the difference/distance between one and the other. Interval scales
provide information about the difference between one and two.

8.2.4 Ratio Scale

Ratio scale is a special kind of internal scale that has a meaningful zero point. With this
scale, length, weight, distance, can be measured. In this scale, it is possible to say, how
many times greater or smaller one object compared to the other.
Example: sales of this year for product A is twice the sale of the same product last year.
Statistical implications: All statistical operation can be performed on this scale. 65
Research Methods for
Management 8.3 SCALE CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
The following scales are measuring the attitude:
l Paired comparison
l Likert scale
l Semantic differential scale
l Thurstone scale

8.3.1 Paired Comparison

Example: Here a respondent is asked to show his preferences from among five brands
of coffee - A, B, C, D and E with respect to flavors. He is required to indicate his
preference in pairs. A number of pairs are calculated as flows. The brands to be rated
is presented two at a time, so each brand in the category is compared once to every
other brand. In each pair, respondents were asked to divide 100 points on the basis of
how much they liked one compared to the other. The score is totaled for each brand.

N (N - 1)
No. of pairs =
2
5 (5 - 1)
In this case, it is = 10
2
A&B B&D
A&C B&E
A&D C&D
A&E C&E
B&C D&E

If there are 15 brands to be evaluated, then we have 105 paired comparison and that is
the limitation of this method.

8.3.2 Likert scale

It is called as summated rating scale. This consists of a series of statements concerning an
attitude object. Each statement has " 5 points" Agree and Disagree on the scale, They are
also called summated scales because scores of individual items are also summated to
produce a total score for the respondent, likert scale consists of two parts - Item part and
evaluation part. Item part is usually a statement about a certain product, event or attitude.
Evaluation part is a list of responses like "Strongly agree", To " strongly disagree" The five
points scale is used here. The numbers like +2, +1,0, -1,-2 are used. The likert scale must
contain equal number of favorable and unfavorable statements, Now let us see with an
example how attitude of a customer is measured with respect to a shopping mall.
Evaluation of Globus the Super Market by respondent
# Likert scale items Strongly Disagree Neither agree Agree Strongly
disagree nor disagree agree
1 Salesman at shopping - - - - -
mall are courteous
2 Shopping mall does - - - - -
not has enough
parking space
3 Prices of items are - - - - -
reasonable.
4 Mall has wide range - - - - -
of products, to
choose
5 Mall operating hours - - - - -
are inconvenient
6 The arrangement of - - - - -
items in mall is
66
confusing
The respondents overall attitude is measured by summing up his or her numerical rating Scaling Techniques
on the statement making up the scale. Since some statements are favorable and others
unfavourable, it is the one important task to be done before summing up the ratings. In
other words, "Strongly agree" category attached to favourable statement and "strongly
designed" category attached to unfavourable. The statement must always be assigned
the same number, such as +2, or -2. The success of the likert scale depends on "How
well the statements are generated?" Higher the respondent's score, the more favourable
is the attitude. E.g. If there are two shopping mall, ABC and XYZ and if the scores using
likert scale is 30 and 60 respectively, we can conclude that the customers attitude towards
XYZ is more favourable than ABC.

8.3.3 Semantic Differential Scale

It is very similar to likert scale. It also consists of number of items to be rated by the
respondents. The essential difference between likert and semantic differential scale is
as follows:
It uses "Bipolar" adjectives and phrases. There are no statements in semantic differential
scale.
Each pair of adjective is separated by Seven point scale.
Some individuals have favourable descriptions on the right side and some have on the
left side. The reason for the reversal is to have a combination of both favourable and
unfavourable statements.
Semantic differential scale items:
Please rate the five real estate developers mentioned below on the given scales for each
of the five aspects. Developers are
1) Ansal 2) Raheja 3) Purvankara 4) Mantri 5) Salpuria
# Scale items

-3 -2 -1 0 +1 +2 +3
1) Not reliable _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Reliable
2) Expensive _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Not expensive
3) Trustworthy _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Not Trustworthy
4) Untimely _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Timely delivery
delivery
5) Strong Brand _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Poor brand image
Image

The respondents are asked to tick one of the seven categories which describes their
views on the attitude. Computation is done exactly the same way as in likert scale.
Suppose we are trying to evaluate the packaging of a particular product. The seven point
scale will be as follows:
" I feel ..
1. Delighted
2. Pleased
3. Mostly satisfied
4. Equally satisfied and dissatisfied
5. Mostly dissatisfied
6. Unhappy
7. Terrible 67
Research Methods for 8.3.4 Thurstone Scale
Management
This is also known as equal appearing interval scale. The following are the steps to
construct thurstone scale:
Step 1: To generate a large number of statements, relating to the attitude to be measured.
Step 2: These statements (75 to 100) are given to a group of judges say 20 to 30 and
asked to classify them according to the degree of favourableness and unfavourableness.
Step 3: 11 piles to be made by the judges. Piles vary from "most unfavourable" in pile
number 1 to neutral in pile 6 and most favourable statement in pile 11.
Step 4: Study the frequency distribution of ratings for each statement and eliminate
those statement, that different judges have given widely scattered ratings.
Step 5: Select one or two statements from each of the 11 piles for the final scale. List
the selected statements in random order to form the scale.
Step 6: Respondents whose attitude are to be scaled are given the list of statements and
asked to indicate agreement or disagreement with each statement. Some may agree
with one statement and some may agree with more than one statement.
Example 1: Suppose we are interested in the attitude of certain socio economic class of
respondents towards savings and investments. The final list of statement would be as
follows:
1. One should live for the present and not the future. So savings are absolutely not
required.
2. There are many attractions to spend the saved money.
3. It is better to spend savings than risk them in investments.
4. Investments are unsafe and also the money is blocked.
5. You earn to spend and not to invest.
6. It is not possible to save in these days.
7. Certain fixed amount of income should be saved and invested.
8. The future is uncertain and investments will protect us.
9. Some amount of savings and investments is a must for every earning of individual.
10. One should try to save more so that most of it can be invested.
11. All the savings should be invested for the future.
Conclusion: A respondent agreeing to statement 8,9,11 would be considered to have a
favourable attitude towards savings and investments. The person agreeing with the
statements 2,3 & 4 will be having an unfavourable attitude. Also, if a respondents chooses
1,3,7,9 his attitude is not considered as organized.
Merits of Thurstone Scale:
1. Very reliable, if we are measuring a single attitude
2. Used to find attitude towards issues like war, religion, language, culture, place of
worship etc.
Limitations:
1. Limited use in MR, since it is time consuming
2. Number of statement collection (100-200) is very tedious
3. Judges bias may be there
68 4. This method is expensive
 Scaling Techniques
8.4 LET US SUM UP
Chapter deals with scales used to measure attitude. Measurement can be made using
nominal, ordinal, interval or ratio scale. These scales show the extent of likes / dislikes,
agreement / disagreement or belief towards an object. Each of the scale has certain
statistical implications. There are four types of scales used in market research namely
paired comparison, Likert, semantic differential and thurstone scale. Likert is a five
point scale whereas semantic differential scale is a seven point scale. Bipolar adjectives
are used in semantic differential scale. Thurstone scale is used to assess attitude of the
respondents group regarding any issue of public interest MDS uses perceptional map to
evaluate customers attitudes. The attribute or non attribute method could be used.
Last part of the chapter deals with criteria that is used to decide whether the scale
chosen is good or not. Validity and reliability of the scale is verified before the scale is
used for measurement. If repeated measurement gives the same result, then the scale
said to be reliable. Validity refers to "Does the scale measure what it intends to measure".
There are 3 methods to check the validity which type of validity is required depends on
"What is being measured".

8.5 LESSON END ACTIVITY

A manufacturer of packed bakery items wants to evaluate customer attitudes toward
his product brand. 300 customers who buy this brand filled the questionnaire that was
sent to them. The answers of this questionnaire were converted to scale and the results
are as follows:
(a) The average score from the above sample on a 10-item Likert Scale was 65
(b) Average score for a sample on 10-item Semantic Differential Scale was 60.
You are required to indicate whether these customers had a favourable or unfavourable
attitude towards the products.

8.6 KEYWORDS
Nominal scale
Ordinal scale
Interval scale
Ratio scale
Paired comparison
Likert scale, Bipolar adjective
Thustone scale
Semantic differential
Non-attribute method
Attribute method
Reliability
Construct validity
Content validity
Predictive validity
Internal validity

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Research Methods for
Management 8.7 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. What are the 4 types of scales used to measure attitude?
2. What is a paired comparison scale?
3. What are the statistical implication of various scales?
4. What is forced and unforced scale?
5. What is attribute and non-attribute method in scaling?
6. What are the different types, sources and characteristics of hypothesis?

8.8 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Cochran, William G., Sampling Techniques, New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Conway, Freda, Sampling: An Introduction for Social Scientists, London: George
Allen and Unwin.
Deming, W.E., Sample Design in Business Research, New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Kaltan, Graham, Introduction to Survey Sampling, Beverly Hills, Calif: Sage.
Kish, Leslie, Survey Sampling, New York: John Wiley & Son.
Raj, Des, The Design of Sample Surveys, New York: McGraw-Hill.
Yates, Frank, Sampling Methods for Censuses and Surveys, New York: Hafner.

70
UNIT-III
LESSON

9
SAMPLING DESIGN

CONTENTS
9.0 Aims and Objectives
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Meaning and Concepts of Sample
9.2.1 Sample Frame
9.2.2 Distinction between Census and Sampling
9.3 Steps in Sampling
9.4 Criteria for Good Sample
9.5 Types of Sample Design
9.5.1 Probability Sampling Techniques
9.5.2 Non-probability Sampling Techniques
9.6 Distinction between Probability Sample and Non-Probability Sample
9.6.1 Probability Sample
9.6.2 Non-Probability Sample
9.7 Let us Sum up
9.8 Lesson-end Activity
9.9 Keywords
9.10 Questions for Discussion
9.11 Suggested Readings

9.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study meaning, criteria and types of sampling design. Here we will
discuss the probability and non-probability techniques of sampling. After studying this
lesson you will be able to:
(i) define sampling.
(ii) describe steps involved in the sampling process.
(iii) distinguish between different types of sampling design.
(iv) describe various probability and non-probability sampling techniques.

9.1 INTRODUCTION
The most important task in carrying out a survey is to select the sample. Sample selection
is undertaken for practical impossibility to survey the population. By applying rationality
in selection of samples, we generalise the findings of our research. There are different
types of sampling, which are studied in this lesson.
Research Methods for
Management 9.2 MEANING AND CONCEPTS OF SAMPLE
A sample is a part of target population, which is carefully selected to represent the population.

9.2.1 Sample Frame

Sampling frame is the list of elements from which the sample is actually drawn. Actually
sampling frame is nothing but correct list of population. Example: Telephone directory,
Product finder, Yellow pages.

9.2.2 Distinction between Census and Sampling

Census refers to complete inclusion of all elements in the population. Sample is a subgroup
of the population.

When is a census appropriate?

1. Census is appropriate if population size is small. For Example: A researcher may
be interested in contacting firms in iron and steel or petroleum product industry
these industries are limited in number so census will be suitable.
2. Sometimes the researcher is interested in gathering information from every individual.
Example: Quality of food served in a mess.

When is sample appropriate?

1. When the population size is large
2. When time and cost is the main consideration in research
3. If the population is Homogeneous
4. Also there are circumstances when census is impossible. Example: Reaction to
global advertising by a company.

9.3 STEPS IN SAMPLING

Sampling process consists of seven steps. They are:
1. Define the population
2. Identify the sampling frame
3. Specify the sampling unit
4. Selection of sampling method
5. Determination of sample size
6. Specify sampling plan
7. Selection of sample
(1) Define the population: Population is defined in terms of
(a) Elements
(b) Sampling units
(c) Extent
(d) Time.
Example: If we are monitoring the sale of a new product recently introduced by a
company, say (shampoo sachet) the population will be
(a) Element - Companys product
(b) Sampling unit - Retail outlet, supermarket
(c) Extent - Hyderabad and Secundrabad
74
(d) Time - April 10th to May 10th, 2006
(2) Identify the sampling frame: Sampling frame could be (a) Telephone Directory Sampling Design
(b) Localities of a city using corporation listing (c) Any other list consisting of all
sampling units.
Example: You want to study about scooter owners in a city. RTO will be the
frame, which provides you name, address and the type of vehicle possessed.
(3) Specify sampling unit: Who is to be contacted- they are the sampling units. If
retailers is to be contacted in a locality, that is the sampling unit.
Sampling unit may be husband or wife in a family. Selection of sampling unit is very
important. If interviews are to be held during office timings, when the head of families
and other employed persons are away , interviewing would under represent employed
persons, and over represent elderly persons, housewives and the unemployed.
(4) Selection of sampling method: This refers to whether (a) probability or (b) Non-
probability methods are used.
(5) Determination of sample size: This means, we need to decide How many
elements of the target population is to be chosen? Sample size depends upon the
type of study that is being conducted. For Example: If it is an exploratory research,
the sample size will be generally small. For conclusive research such as descriptive
research, sample size will be large.
Sample size also depends upon the resources available with the company. Sample
size depends on the accuracy required in the study and the permissible error allowed.
(6) Specify sampling plan: Sampling plan should clearly specify the target population.
Improper defining would lead to wrong data collection.
Example: This means that, if survey of household is to be conducted, a sampling
plan should define a Household i.e., Is it husband or wife or both minor etc.,
Who should be included or excluded. Instruction to the interviewer should include
How he should take systematic sample of households, probability sampling /non
probability sampling. Advise him on what he should do, when no one is available
on his visit, to the household.
(7) Selection of sample: This is the final step in sampling process.

9.4 CRITERIA FOR GOOD SAMPLE

Sampling strategy has two main components:
l Selecting the sample, which involves sampling
l Processing the data which has certain rules for calculating statistics.
Good sampling design should take into account both of these and should
l Relate to the objectives of the investigation
l Be practical and achievable;
l Be costeffective in terms of equipment and labour;
l Provide estimates of population parameters that are truly representative and
unbiased.
Ideally, representative samples should be:
l Taken at random so that every member of the population of data has an equal
chance of selection;
l Large enough to give sufficient precision;
l Unbiased by the sampling procedure or equipment.
These may well conflict and there is rarely any unique best answer to a sampling problem.

It is very important in sampling procedures to take into account relevant factors such as:
l location
l habitat 75
Research Methods for l time
Management
l age
l sex
l physiological condition and
l disease status
These also need to be noted in the design as otherwise a wrong interpretation may arise
from the results.

9.5 TYPES OF SAMPLE DESIGN

Sampling is divided into two types:
Probability sampling: In probability sample, every unit in the population has equal chances
for being selected as a sample unit.
Nonprobability sampling: In non probability sampling, units in the population has unequal
or zero chances for being selected as a sample unit.

9.5.1 Probability Sampling Techniques

1. Random sampling
2. Systematic sampling
3. Stratified random sampling
4. Cluster sampling
5. Multistage sampling
Random sampling
Simple random sample is a process in which every item of the population has equal
probability of being chosen.
There are two methods used in random sampling
(1) Lottery method
(2) Using random number table.
(1) Lottery method: Take a population containing 4 departmental stores: A, B, C & D.
Suppose we need to pick a sample of two store from the population using simple
random procedure. We write down all possible sample of two. Six different
combination each containing two stores from the population. Combination are AB,
AD, AC, BC BD, CD. We can now write down 6 sample combination on six
identical pieces of paper, fold the piece of paper so that they cannot be distinguished.
Put them in a box. Mix it and pull one at random. This procedure is the lottery
method of making random selection.
(2) Using Random number table: A Random number table consists of a group of
digits that are arranged in random order, i.e. any row, column, or diagonal in such a
table contains digits that are not in any systematic order. There are 3 tables for
random numbers (a) Tippets table (b) Fisher and Yates table (c) Kendall and
Raington table.
Table for random number is as follows:
40743 39672
80833 18496
76 10743 39431
 88103 23016 Sampling Design

53946 43761
31230 41212
24323 18054
Example: Taking the earlier example of stores we first number the stores.
1 A 2 B 3 C 4 D
The stores A, B, C, D has been numbered as 1,2,3,4.
In order to select 2 shops out of 4 randomly, we proceed as follows:
Suppose we start with second row in the first column of the table and decide to
read diagonally. The starting digit is 8. There is no departmental stores with number
8 in the population. There are only 4 stores. Move to the next digit on the diagonal,
which is 0. Ignore it since it does not correspond to any stores in the population.
The next digit on the diagonal is 1 which corresponds to store A. Pick A and
proceed until we get 2 samples. In this case the 2 departmental stores are 1 and 4.
Sample derived from this consists of departmental stores A and D.
In random sampling there are 2 possibilities (1) Equal probability (2) Varying
probability.
Equal probability
This is also called as random sampling with replacement.
Example: Put 100 chits in a box numbered 1 to 100. Pick one No. at random. Now the
population has 99 chits. Now, when a Second number is picked, there are 99 chits. In
order to provide equal probability, the sample selected is replaced in the population.
Varying probability
This is also called random sampling without replacement. Once a number is picked, it is
not included again. Therefore the probability of selecting a unit varies from the other. In
our example it is 1/100, 1/99, 1/98, 1/97 if we select 4 samples out of 100.
Systematic random sampling
There are 3 steps:
(1) Sampling interval K is determined
No. of units in the population
K=
No. of units desired in the sample
(2) One unit between the first and Kth unit in the population list is randomly chosen.
(3) Add Kth unit to the randomly chosen number.
Example: Consider 1000 households, from which we want to select 50 units.
1000
Calculate K = = 20
50
To select the first unit, we randomly pick one number between 1 to 20 say 17. So our
sample is starting with 17, 37, 57.. Please note that only first item was randomly
selected. The rest are systematically selected. This is a very popular method because,
we need only one random number.
Stratified random sampling
A probability sampling procedure in which simple random sub-samples are drawn from
within different strata that are more or less equal on some characteristics. Stratified
sampling are of two types 77
Research Methods for 1. Proportionate stratified sampling: The number of sampling units drawn from
Management
each stratum is in proportion to the population size of that stratum.
2. Disproportionate stratified sampling: The number of sampling units drawn from
each stratum is based on the analytical consideration, but not in proportion to the
population size of that stratum.
Sampling process is as follows
1. The population to be sampled is divided into groups (stratified)
2. A simple random sample is chosen
Reason for stratified sampling
Sometimes marketing professionals want information about the component part of the
population. Assume there are 3 stores. Each store forms a strata and sampling from
within each strata is selected. The result might be used to plan different promotional
activities for each store strata.
Suppose a researcher wishes to study the retail sale of product such as tea in a universe
of 1000 grocery stores (Kirana shops included). The researcher will first divide this
universe into say 3 strata based on store size. This bench mark for size could be only one
of the following (a) Floor space (b) Sales volume (c) Variety displayed etc.
Stores size No. of stores Percentage of stores
Large stores 2000 20
Medium stores 3000 30
Small stores 5000 50
Total 10,000 100
Suppose we need 12 stores, then choose 4 from each strata. Choose 4 stores at random.
If there was no stratification, simple random sampling from the population would be
expected to choose 2 large stores (20 percent of 12) about 4 medium stores (30 percent
of 12) and about 6 small stores (50 percent of 12).
As can be seen, each store can be studied separately using stratified sample.
Stratified sampling can be carried out with
1. Same proportion across strata called proportionate stratified sample
2. Varying proportion across strata called disproportionate stratified sample.
Example:
Stores size No. of stores Sample Sample
(Population) Proportionate Disproportionate
Large 2000 20 25
Medium 3000 30 35
Small 5000 50 40
Total 10,000 100 100

Estimation of universe mean with a stratified sample

Example:
Stores size Sample Mean Sales No. of stores Percent of stores
per store
Large 200 2000 20
Medium 80 3000 30
Small 40 5000 50
Total 10,000 100

The population mean of monthly sales is calculated by multiplying the sample mean by its
relative weight.
78 2000.2 + 800.3+400.5 = 84
Sample proportionate Sampling Design

If N is the size of the population.

n is the size of the strain.
i represents 1,2,3,..k [number of strata in the population]
\ Proportionate sampling

n n n n
P = 1 = 2 = ................= k =
N1 N 2 Nk N
n1 n
=
N1 N
n
n1 = n1 and so on
N

n1 is the sample size to be drawn from stratum 1

n1+ n2+ nk = n [Total sample size of the all strata]
Illustration: A survey is planned to analyse the perception of people towards their own
religious practices. Population consists of various religious, viz, Hindu, Muslim, Christian,
Sikh, Jain assume total population is 10000. Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh and Jains
consists of 6000, 2000, 1000, 500 and 500 respectively. Determine the sample size of
each stratum by applying proportionate stratified sampling. If the sample size required is
200.
Solution: Total population, N=10000
Population in the strata of Hindus N1=6000
Population in the strata of Muslims N2=2000
Population in the strata of Christians N3=1000
Population in the strata of Sikhs N4=500
Population in the strata of Jains N5=500
Proportionate stratified sampling

n n n n n
P= 1 = 2 = 3 = 4 = 5 = n
N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N

\ Let us determine the sample size of strata N1

n1 n 200
= N1 = 6000
N1 N 10000
= 20 6
= 120.

n 200
n2 = N2 = 2000
N 10000
= 40.

n 200
n3 = N3 = 1000
N 10000
= 20

79
Research Methods for
Management n 200
n4 = N4 = 500
N 10000
= 10

n 200
n5 = N5 = 500 = 10
N 10000
n = n 1+n2+n3+n4+n5
= 120+40+20+10+10
= 200.
Sample Disproportion:
Let s i is the variance of the stratum i,
where i = 1,2,3.k.
Formula to compute the sample size of the stratum i is.
is the variance of the stratum i,
where size of stratum i
ri = Sample size of stratum i
ri = Ratio of the size of he stratum I with that of the population.
Ni = Population of stratum i
N = Total population.
Illustration: Govt. of India wants to study the performance of women self help groups
(WSHG) in three region viz. North, South and west. Total WSHG's are 1500. Number
of groups in North, South and West are 600, 500 and 400 respectively. Govt. found more
variation between WSHG's in North, South and West regions. The variance of
performance of WSHG's in there regions are 64, 25 and 16 respectively. If the
disappropriate stratified sampling is to be sued with the sample size of 100, determine the
number of sampling units for each regions.
Solutions
Total Population N = 1500
Size of the stratum 1, N1 = 600
Size of the stratum 2, N2 = 500
Size of the stratum 3, N3 = 400
Variance of stratum 1, s12 = 64
Variance of stratum 2, s 22 = 25
Variance of stratum 3, s 2 3 = 16
Sample size n = 100
Stratum Size of the Ni riin
Number stratum Ni ri = i riin riin =
rii
3
N
1
1 600 0.4 8 3.2 54
2 500 0.33 5 1.65 28
3 400 0.26 4 1.04 18
Total 100

Cluster sampling
Following steps are followed.
1. Population is divided into clusters
80
2. A simple random sample of few clusters selected
3. All the units in the selected cluster is studied. Sampling Design

Step - 1: Mentioned above of cluster sampling is similar to the first step of stratified
random sampling. But the 2 sampling methods are different. The key to cluster sampling
is decided by how homogeneous or heterogeneous the clusters are.
Major advantage of simple cluster sampling is the case of sample selection. Suppose we
have a population of 20,000 units from which we want to select 500 units. Choosing a
sample of that size is a very time consuming process, if we use Random Numbers table.
Suppose the entire population is divided into 80 clusters of 250 units, we can choose two
sample clusters (2x250=500) easily by using cluster sampling. The most difficult job is to
form clusters. In marketing the researcher forms clusters so that he can deal each
cluster differently.
Example:
Assume there are 20 household in a locality
Cross Houses
1 X1 X2 X3 X4
2 X5 X6 X7 X8
3 X9 X 10 X 11 X 12
4 X 13 X 14 X 15 X 16
We need to select 8 houses. We can choose 8 houses at random. Alternatively, 2 clusters
each containing 4 houses can be chosen. In this method, every possible sample of eight
houses would have a known probability of being chosen - i.e. chance of one in two. We
must remember that in the cluster each house has the same characteristics. With cluster
sampling, it is impossible for certain random sample to be selected. For example, in the
cluster sampling process described above, the following combination of houses could not
occur: X1 X2 X5 X6 X9 X10 X13 X14. This is because the original universe of 16 houses
have been redefined as a universe of 4 clusters. So only clusters can be chosen as
sample.
Multistage sampling
The name implies that sampling is done in several stages. This is used with stratified /
cluster designs.
An illustration of double sampling is as follows.
Management of newly opened club is soliciting for membership. Therefore during first
round all corporates are sent details so that those who are interested may enroll. Having
enrolled, the second round concentrates on, how many are interested to enroll for various
entertainment activities that club is offering such as Billiards club, indoor sports, swimming,
and gym etc. After getting this information, you might stratify the interested respondents.
This also will tell you the reaction of new members to various activities. This technique
is considered to be scientific, since there is no chance of ignoring the characteristics of
the universe.
Advantage: May reduce cost, if first stage results is enough to stratify or cluster.
Disadvantage: Increases the cost as more and more stages are included.
Area sampling
This is a Probability sampling. This is a special from of cluster sampling
Example 1: If someone wants to measure toffee sale in retail stores, one might choose
a city locality and then audit toffee sales, in all retail outlets in those localities.
The main problem in area sampling is the non-availability of shop list selling toffee in a
particular area. Therefore, it would be impossible to choose a probability sample from
these outlets directly. Therefore, the first job is to choose a geographical area and then
81
Research Methods for list out all outlets selling toffee. Then follow probability sample for shops among the list
Management
prepared.
Example 2: You may like to choose shops which sells Cadbury dairy milk. The
disadvantage of area sampling is that it is expensive and time consuming.

What are the Advantages v/s Disadvantages of probability Sampling?

The advantages of probability Sampling are that:

l It is unbiased.
l Quantification is possible in probability sampling.
l Less knowledge of universe is sufficient.
The disadvantages of probability sampling are that:
l It takes time.
l It is costly
l More resources are required to design and execute than non-probability design. In
M.R, due to time and budget constraints, non-probability sample is used.

Check Your Progress

1. What is a sample?
2. Describe the criteria for good sample.
3. What are the different steps in systemic random sampling?

9.5.2 Non-Probability Sampling Techniques

1. Deliberate sampling
2. Shopping Mall Intercept Sampling
3. Sequential sampling
4. Quota sampling
5. Snowball sampling
6. Panel samples

Deliberate or Purposive Sampling

This is also called judgment sampling. The investigator uses, his discretion in selecting
sample observations from the universe. As a result, there is an element of bias in the
selection. From the point of the investigator, the sample thus chosen may be a true
representative of the universe. However , the units in the universe do not enjoy equal
chance of getting included in the sample. Therefore, it cannot be considered as a probability
sampling.
Example: Test market cities are selected based on judgment sampling, because these
cities are viewed as a typical cities matches certain demographical characteristics.

Shopping Mall Intercept Sampling

This is a non-probability sampling method. In this method, respondents are recruited for
individual interviews at fixed locations in shopping malls. (Example: Shopper's Shoppe,
Food World, Sunday to Monday ) This type of study would include several malls, each
serving different socio-economic population.
Example: The researcher may wish to compare responses of two or more TV
82
commercials for two or more products. Mall samples can be informative for this kind of
studies. Mall samples should not be used under following circumstances i.e., If the Sampling Design
difference in effectiveness of two commercials varies with the frequency of mall shopping,
change in the demographic characteristic of mall shoppers, or any other characteristic.
The success of this method depends on "How well the sample is chosen".

Merits
1. It has relatively small universe.
2. In most cases, it is expected to give quick results. The purpose of deliberate sampling
has become a practical method in dealing with economic or practical problems.
3. In studies, where the level of accuracy can vary from the prescribed norms, this
method can be used.

Demerits
1. Fundamentally, this is not considered a scientific approach, as it allows for bias.
2. The investigator may start with a preconceived idea and draw samples such that
the units selected will be subjected to specific judgment of the enumerator.

Sequential Sampling
This is a method in which sample is formed on the basis of a series of successive
decisions. They aim at answering the research question on the basis of accumulated
evidence. Sometimes, a researcher may want to take a modest sample, look at the
results. Thereafter decide if more information is required for which larger samples are
considered. If the evidence is not conclusive, after a small sample is taken, more samples
are required. If still inconclusive still larger samples are taken. At each stage a decision
is made about whether more information should be collected or the evidence is now
sufficient to permit a conclusion.
Example: Assume that a product need to be evaluated.
A small probability sample is taken from among the current user. Suppose it is found that
average annual usage is between 200 to 300 units and it is known that product is
economically viable only if the average consumption is 400 units. This information is
sufficient to take a decision to drop the product. On the other hand if initial sample shows
a consumption level of 450 to 600, additional samples are needed for further study.

Quota Sampling
Quota sampling is quite frequently used in marketing research. It involves the fixation of
certain quotas, which are to be fulfilled by the interviewers.
Suppose 2,00,000 students are appeared for a competitive examination and we need to
select 1% of them based on quota sampling. The classification of quota may be as
follows.

Example of quota sampling

Classification of samples

Category Quota
General merit 1000
Sport 600
NRI 100
SC/ST 300
TOTAL 2000

83
Research Methods for Quota sampling involves following steps:
Management
1. The population is divided into segments on the basis of certain characteristics.
Here segments are called cells.
2. A quota of unit is selected from each cell.

Advantages of quota sampling

1. Quota sampling does not require prior knowledge about the cell to which each
population unit belongs. Therefore this sampling has a distinct advantage over
stratified random sampling, where every population unit must be placed in the
appropriate stratum before the actual sample selection.
2. It is simple to administer. Sampling can be done very fast.
3. Researcher going to various Geographical locations is avoided and therefore cost
is reduced.

Limitations of quota sampling

1. It may not be possible to get a "representative" sample within the quota as the
selection depends entirely on the mood and convenience of the interviewers.
2. Since too much liberty is given to the interviewers, the quality of work suffers if
they are not competent.

Snowball sampling
This is a non-probability sampling. In this method, the initial group of respondents are
selected randomly. Subsequent respondents are selected based on the opinion or referrals
provided by the initial respondents. Further, referrals will lead referrals thus, leading to a
snowball sampling. The referrals will have a demographic and psychographic
characteristics that are relatively similar to the person referring them.
Example: College students bring in more college students on the consumption of pepsi.
The major advantage of snowball sampling is that it monitors the desired characteristics
in the population.

Panel samples
Panel samples are frequently used in marketing research. To give an example, suppose
that ,one is interested in knowing the change in the consumption pattern of households.
A sample of households are drawn. These households are contacted to gather information
on the pattern of consumption, subsequently, say after a period of six months, the same
households are approached once again and the necessary information on their consumption
is collected.

9.6 DISTINCTION BETWEEN PROBABILITY SAMPLE

AND NON-PROBABILITY SAMPLE
9.6.1 Probability Sample
1. Here each member of a universe has a known chance of being selected and included
in the sample
2. Personal bias is avoided. The researcher cannot exercise, his discretion in the
selection of sample items
Examples: Random Sample, cluster sample.
9.6.2 Non-Probability Sample
In this case, the chance of choosing a particular universe element is unknown. The
84 sample chosen in this method is based on aspects like convenience, quota etc.
Examples: - Quota sampling, judgment sampling Sampling Design

Illustration 1: Determine the sample size if standard deviation of the population is 3.9,
population mean is 36 and sample mean is 33 and the desired degree of precision is 99
per cent.
Solution:

Given = 3.9, = 36, x = 33

and z = 1% (99% precision implies 1% level of significance)
i.e. z = 2.576 (at 1% l.o.s)
(Table value)
We know that, sample size n can be obtained using the relation.

2
n = z where d = - x

d

2
n = 2.576 X 3.9 = 11.21;11
36-33

Illustration 2: Determine the sample size if standard deviation of the population is 12

and standard error (standard deviation of the sampling distribution) is 3.69.
Solution:
Given Standard deviation of population
=12
Standard error = x = 3.69
We know that
x=
n 2
x2 =
n
2 2
n = = 12

x2 3.69
n = 10.57 ~
11
Illustration 3: Determine the sample size, if sample proportion p = 0.4 & standard error
of proportion is 0.043
Solution:
Given that p = 0.4 q = 0.6 p = 0.043

pq
We know that p2 = n

p2 = pq
n

n = pq = 0.40.6
p 2 (0.043)2

= 129.79 ~ 130
Illustration 4: Determine the sample size if standard deviation of the population is 8.66,
sample mean is 45, population mean 43 and the desired degree of precision is 95%.

85
Research Methods for Solution:
Management
Given that = 43, X = 45
s = 8.66 z = 5% l.o.s
za =1.96
We know that, sample size n can be obtained using the relation
2
n= z where d = - x
d

2
~; n =
1.96 8.66
= 72.03 ~ 72
43 - 45

9.7 LET US SUM UP

Sample is a representative of population. Census represents cent percent of population.
The most important factors distinguishing whether to choose sample or census is cost
and time. There are seven steps involved in selecting the sample. There are 2 types of
sample (a) Probability sampling (b) Non probability sample. Probability sampling includes
random sampling, stratified random sampling systematic sampling, cluster sampling,
Multistage sampling. Random sampling can be chosen by Lottery method or using
random number table. Samples can be chosen either with equal probability or varying
probability. Random sampling can be systematic or stratified. In systematic random
sampling, only the first number is randomly selected. Then by adding a constant "K"
remaining numbers are generated. In stratified sampling, random samples are drawn
from several strata, which has more or less same characteristics. In multistage sampling,
sampling is drawn in several stages.

9.8 LESSON END ACTIVITY

Prepare a sample plan including the sample size for a bathing soap, keeping in mind both
the male and female customers. Use three economic strata, the educational level, per
capita income and the age group influencing the buyer behaviour. Prepare a sampling
design for the following:
(i) To measure the effectiveness for a TV Ad on soaps
(ii) To assess the market share of a branded soap.

9.9 KEYWORDS
Sample frame
Census
Random sampling
Stratified random sampling
Systematic sampling
Cluster sampling
Multistage sampling
Quota sampling
Snow to all sampling
Deliberate sampling
Panel sampling

86
 Sampling Design
9.10 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. Distinguish between census and sampling.
2. What are the steps involved in the process of sampling?
3. What are the different types of sample designs?
4. What are the types of probability sampling techniques?
5. Explain the following:
(a) Process of stratified sampling
(b) Reasons for stratified sampling
6. What are the steps to be followed in the process of cluster sampling?
7. What are the advantages and disadvantages of multistage sampling?
8. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of probability sampling technique?
9. What is non-probability sampling technique?
10. What are the types of non-probability sampling techniques?
11. What are the merits and demerits of shopping mall intercept sampling?
12. What are the advantages and limitations of quota sampling?
13. Distinguish probability and non probability sampling.
14. What are the guidelines to determine the sample size of a population?

9.11 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Cochran, William G., Sampling Techniques, New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Conway, Freda, Sampling: An Introduction for Social Scientists, London: George
Allen and Unwin.
Deming, W.E., Sample Design in Business Research, New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Kaltan, Graham, Introduction to Survey Sampling, Beverly Hills, Calif: Sage.
Kish, Leslie, Survey Sampling, New York: John Wiley & Son.
Raj, Des, The Design of Sample Surveys, New York: McGraw-Hill.
Yates, Frank, Sampling Methods for Censuses and Surveys, New York: Hafner.

87
Research Methods for
Management LESSON

10
DATA COLLECTION

CONTENTS
10.0 Aims and Objectives
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Types of Data-Sources
10.2.1 Primary Data
10.2.2 Secondary Data
10.2.3 Internal Secondary Data
10.2.4 External Secondary Data
10.2.5 Special Techniques of Market Research or Syndicated Data
10.3 Miscellaneous Secondary Data
10.4 Tools for Data Collection
10.5 Designing the Questionnaire
10.6 Questionnaire Designing
10.6.1 Determine what Information is Required
10.6.2 Mode of Collecting the Data
10.6.3 Types of Questions
10.6.4 Question Wording
10.6.5 Applicability
10.6.6 Split Ballot Technique
10.6.7 Participation at the Expense of Accuracy
10.6.8 Pre-testing of Questionnaire
10.7 Mail Questionnaire
10.7.1 Advantages
10.7.2 Limitations
10.8 Sample Questionnaires
10.8.1 A Study of Customer Retention as Adopted by Textile Retail Outlets
10.8.2 A Study on Customer Preferences of P.C.
10.8.3 Questionnaire (Dealers)
10.9 Let us Sum up
10.10 Lesson-end Activities
10.11 Keywords
10.12 Questions for Discussion
10.13 Suggested Readings

10.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study types and sources of data collection. Here we will also
discuss the tools of data collection and method for designing questionnaire. After studying
this lesson you will be able to:
88 (i) distinguish between primary and secondary data.
(ii) understand data collection procedure Data Collection

(iii) describe types of syndicated data

(iv) design questionnaire

10.1 INTRODUCTION
Once the researcher has decided the Research Design the next job is of data collection.
For data to be useful, our observations need to be organized so that we can get some
patterns and come to logical conclusions.
Statistical investigation requires systematic collection of data, so that all relevant groups
are represented in the data.
Depending upon the sources utilized, whether the data has come from actual observations
or from records that are kept for normal purposes, statistical data can be classified into
two categories-primary and secondary data.

10.2 TYPES OF DATA-SOURCES

10.2.1 Primary Data
Data directly collected by the researcher, with respect to problem under study, is known
as primary data. Primary data is also the first hand data collected by the researcher for
the immediate purpose of the study.

10.2.2 Secondary Data

Secondary data are statistics that already exists. They have been gathered not for
immediate use. This may be described as Those data that have been compiled by
some agency other than the user. Secondary data can be classified as:
l Internal secondary data
l External secondary data

10.2.3 Internal Secondary Data

Is that data which is a part of companys record, for which research is already conducted.
Internal data are those, which are found within the organisation. Example: Sales in units,
credit outstanding, sales persons call reports, daily production report, monthly collection
report, etc.

10.2.4 External Secondary Data

The data collected by the researcher from outside the company. This can be divided into
four parts:
l Census data
l Individual project report published
l Data collected for sale on a commercial basis called syndicated data
l Miscellaneous data
l Census data: is the most important among the sources of data. The following are
some of the data that can got by census
l Census of the wholesale trade
l Census of the retail trade 89
Research Methods for l Population census
Management
l Census of manufacturing industries
l Individual project report publicized
l Encyclopedia of business information sources
l Product finder
l Thomas registers etc.

10.2.5 Special Techniques of Market Research or Syndicated Data

These techniques involve data collection on a commercial basis i.e., Data collected by
this method is sold to interested clients, on payment. Example of such organisation is
Neilson Retail, ORG Marg, IMRB etc. These organizations provide NRS called National
Readership Survey to the sponsors and advertising agencies. They also provide business
relationship survey called BRS which estimates the following:
(a) Rating
(b) Profile of the company etc.
(c) These people also provide TRP rating namely television rating points on a
regular basis. This provides
(i) Viewership figures
(ii) Duplication between programmes etc. Some of the interesting
studies made by IMRB are SNAP- Study of Nations Attitude and Awareness
Programme. In this study, the various groups of the Indian population and
their life styles, attitudes of Indian housewives are detailed.
There is also a study called FSRP which covers children in the age group of 10
19 years. Beside their demographics and psychographics, the study covers those
areas such as
l Children as decision makers
l Role model of Indian children
l Pocket money and its usage
l Media reviews
l Favoured Personalities and characteristics and
l Brand awareness and advertising recall
Syndicated sources consists of market research firms offering syndicated services. These
market research organisations, collects and updates information on a continues basis.
Since data is syndicated, their cost is spread over a number of client organisations and
hence cheaper. For example: A client firm can give certain specific question to be included
in the questionnaire, which is used routinely to collect syndicated data. The client will
have to pay extra for these. The data generated by these additional questions and analysis
of such data will be revealed only to the firms submitting the questions. Therefore we
can say, customization of secondary data is possible. Some areas of syndicated services
are newspapers, magazine readership, TV channel popularity etc. Data from syndicated
sources are available on a weekly or monthly basis.

Syndicated data may be classified as

90 (a) Consumer purchase data

(b) Retailer and wholesaler data Data Collection

(c) Advertising data.

Most of these data collection methods as above are also called as syndicated data.
Syndicated data can be classified into

Consumer Purchase Data or Panel type Data

This is one type of syndicated data. In this method, there are consumer panels. Members
of this panel will be representative of the entire population. Panel members keep diaries
in which they record all purchase, made by them. Product purchased, ranges from
packaged food, to personal care products. Members submit the dairies every month to
the organizations, for which, they are paid. This panel data can be used to find out the
sale of the product. These panel data also gives an insight into repeat purchases, effect
of free samples, coupon redemption etc.
The consumer panel data also gives profile of the target audience. Nowadays, diaries
are replaced by hand held scanners. Panels also provide data on consumer buying habits
on petrol, auto parts, sports goods etc.

Limitations
l Low income groups are not represented
l Some people do not want to take the trouble of keeping the record of the purchases.
Hence data is not available.
Advantages
l Use of scanner tied to the central computer helps the panel members to record
their purchases early (Almost immediately)
l It also provides reliability and speed.
l Panel can consist of only senior citizens or only children.
We also have consumer mail panel (CMP). This consists of members who are willing to
answer mail questionnaire. A large number of such households are kept on the panel.
This serves as a universe, through which panels are selected.
Retail and Wholesale Data
Marketing research is done in a retail store. These are organizations which provide
continuous data on grocery products. The procedure does not involve questioning people
and also does not rely on their memory. This requires cooperation, from the retailer to
allow auditing to be done. Generally, retail audit involves counting of stocks between two
consecutive visits. It involves inspection of goods delivered between visits. If the stock
of any product in the shop is accurately counted, on both the visits and data on deliveries
are accurately taken from the records, the collection of sales of a product over that
period can be determined accurately as follows:
Initial stock + Deliveries between visits second time stock = sales
If this information is obtained from different shops from the representative sample of
shops, then the accurate estimates of sales of the product can be made. To do this, some
shops can be taken as a Panel of shops representing the universe.
Advantages
l It provides information on consumer purchase over the counter between audits in
specific units. For Example, KGs, bottles, Nos etc.
l It provides data on shop purchases i.e., the purchases made by the retailer between
audits.
l The manufacturer comes to know How competitor is doing? 91
Research Methods for l It is very reliable method
Management
Disadvantages
l Experience is needed by the market researcher
l Cooperation is required from the retail shop
l It is time consuming
Advertising Data
Since large amount of money is spent on advertising, data need to be collected on
advertising. One way of recording is, by using passive meter. This is attached to a TV
set and it records when the set was On. It will record How long a channel is viewed.
By this method, data regarding audience interest in a channel can be found out. One
thing to be noticed from the above is that, it only tells you that someone is viewing TV at
home. But it does not tell you Who is viewing at home. To find out Who is viewing
a new instrument called Peoples Meter is introduced. This is a remote controlled
instrument with buttons. Each household is given a specific button. When the button is
pressed, it signals the control box that a specific person is viewing. This information is
recorded electronically and sent to a computer that stores this information and subsequently
it is analysed.

10.3 MISCELLANEOUS SECONDARY DATA

Includes trade association such as FICCI, CEI, Institution of Engineers, chamber of
Commerce, Libraries such as public library, University Library etc., literature, state and
central government publications, private sources such as all India Management Association
(AIMA), Financial Express and Financial Dailies, world bodies and international
organizations such as IMF, ADB etc.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Secondary Data

Advantages
(a) It is economical, no need to hire field people
(b) It saves time, normally 2 to 3 months time is saved, if data is available on hand and
it can be tabulated in minutes.
(c) They provide information, which the retailers may not be willing to give to the
researcher.
(d) No training is required to collect the data unlike primary data.
Disadvantages
Because secondary data had been collected for some other projects. So, it may not fit in
to the problem, that is being defined. In some cases, the fit is so poor that, the data
becomes completely inappropriate. It may be ill suited because of the following three
reasons:
l Unit of measurement
l Problem of Accuracy
l Recency

Unit of Measurement
It is common for secondary data to be expressed in units. Example: Size of the retail
92 establishments, for instance, can be expressed in terms of gross sales, profits, square
feet area and number of employees. Consumer income can be expressed by individual, Data Collection

family, household etc.

Secondary data available may not fit this.
Assume that the class intervals used is quite different from those which are needed.
Example: Data available with respect to age group is as follows :
<18 year
18 24 years
25 34 years
35 44 years
Suppose the company needs a classification less than 20, 20 30 and 30 40, the above
data classification of secondary data cannot be used.

Problem of Accuracy
The accuracy of secondary data is highly questionable. A number of errors are possible,
in collection and analysis of the data. Accuracy of secondary data depends on
(a) Who collected the data?
(b) How are the data collected?

(a) Who collected the data?

Reputation of the source decides the accuracy of the data. Assume that a private magazine
publisher conducts a survey of its readers. The main aim of the survey is to find out the
opinion of its reader about advertisement appearing in it. This survey is done by the
publisher with a hope that other firms will buy this data before inserting advertisement.
Assume that a professional M.R agency has conducted a similar survey and selling its
syndicated data on many magazines.
If you are a person, who wants information on a particular magazine, you buy the data
from M.R agency rather from the magazine publisher. Reason for this is trust on M.R
agency. The reason for trusting the MR agency is as follows.
1. Being an independent agency, there is no bias. The M.R agency is likely to provide
an unbiased data.
2. The data quality of M.R agency will be good, since they are professionals.

(b) How was the data collected?

1. What instruments was used?
2. What type of sampling was done?
3. How large was the sample?
4. What was the time period of data collection? Example: Days of the week, time of
the day.
Recency
This refers to How old is the information? If it is five years old, it may be useless.
Therefore, publication lag is a problem.

93
Research Methods for Secondary data used to choose a TV movie channel for advertising products & services.
Management

Top 10 Advertisers in English General

Entertainment channels
HLL
L'Oreal
Coca Cola
Nestle
Nokia
Pepsi
Brooke Bond Lipton
Titan Industries
Tata Motors
Ponds

Secondary data of a print media to unable the advertisers to choose suitable magazines.
Top ten magazines (All India - urban+rural):
l Saras Salil leads here with a readership of 6981 thousand
l India Today (Hindi) - 4314 thousand (Exhibit 12.4)
l India Today (English) - 4188 thousand
l Grihshobha - 3757 thousand
l Vanitha - 3270 thousand
l Pratiyogita Darpan - 2743 thousand
l Readers' Digest - 2566 thousand
l Filmfare - 2542 thousand
l Meri Saheli - 2405 thousand
l Sarita - 2189 thousand
Secondary data of radio stations to choose a broad cast channel for inserting an ad.
Total Radio Stations after phase II rollout
Player Total Stations Of the top 13 towns
(A + and A Category)

Adlabs 44 7
South Asia/Kaal Radio 40 10
ENIL 32 13
Radio City 20 11
Dainik Bhaskar 17 4
Bag Films 10 0
Zee/Century 8 0
Thanthi/Today/Midday 7 1/3/7
HT/Positive/Raj Pat 4 40/1
Red FM 3 3

10.4 TOOLS FOR DATA COLLECTION

Observation and Questioning are two broad approaches available for primary data
collection. The major difference between the two approaches is that, in questioning
process, respondent play an active role, because of interaction with the researcher.

94
Observation Method Data Collection

In observation method, only present / current behaviour can be studied. Therefore many
researchers feel that this is a great disadvantage. A causal observation can enlighten the
researcher to identify the problem. Such as length of the queue in front of a food chain,
price and advertising activity of the competitor etc. observation is the least expensive of
data collection.
Example 1: Suppose a safety week is celebrated and public is made aware of safety
precautions to be observed while walking on the road. After one week, an observer can
stand at a street corner and observe the No. of people walking on footpath and those
walking on the road during a time period. This will tell him whether the campaign on
safety is successful or unsuccessful.
Sometimes observation will be the only method available to the researcher.
Example 2: Behaviour or attitude of children, and also of those who are inarticulate.

Types of Observation Methods

There are several methods of observation of which, any one or a combination of some of
them, can be used by the observer. They are:
l Structured or unstructured observation methods
l Disguised or undisguised observation methods
l Direct-indirect observation
l Human-mechanical observation

Structured-Unstructured Observation Methods

Whether the observation should be structured or unstructured depends on the data needed.
Example 1: A Manager of a hotel wants to know "How many of his customers visit the
hotel with family and how many visits as single customer". Here observation is structured,
since it is clear "what is to be observed". He may tell the waiters to record this. This
information is required to decide the tables and chairs requirement and also the layout.
Suppose, the Manager wants to know how single customer and customer with family
behave and what is their mood. This study is vague, it needs non-structured observation.
It is easier to record structured observation than non structured observation.
Example 2: To distinguish between structured and unstructured observation, consider a
study, investigating the amount of search that goes into a "soap purchase". On the one
hand, the observers could be instructed to stand at one end of a supermarket and record
each sample customer's search. This may be observed and recorded as follows.
"Purchaser first paused after looking at HLL brand". He looked at the price on of the
product, kept the product back on the shelf, then picked up a soap cake of HLL and
glanced at the picture on the pack and its list of ingredients, and kept it back. He then
checked the label and price for P&G product, kept that back down again, and after a
slight pause, picked up a different flavor soap of M/S Godrej company and placed it in
his trolley and moved down the aisle. On the other hand, observers might simply be told
to record the "First soap cake examined", by checking the appropriate boxes in the
observation form. The "second situation" represents more structured than the first.
To use more structured approach, it would be necessary to decide precisely, what is to be
observed and the specific categories and units that would be used to record the observations.
95
Research Methods for Disguised-Undisguised Observation Methods
Management
In Disguised observation, the respondents do not know that they are being observed. In
non disguised observation, the respondents are well aware that they are being observed.
In disguised observation, many times observers pose as shoppers. They are called as
"mystery shoppers". They are paid by the research organisations. The main strength of
disguised observation is that, it allows for maintaining the true reactions of the individuals.
In undisguised method, observation may be contained due to induced error by the objects
of observation. The ethical aspect of disguised observations is still questionable.
Direct-Indirect Observation
In direct observation, the actual behaviour or phenomenon of interest is observed. In
Indirect observation, results of the consequences of the phenomenon are observed.
Suppose, researcher is interested in knowing about the soft drink consumption of a student
in a hostel room. He may like to observe empty soft drink bottles dropped into the bin.
Similarly, the observer may seek the permission of the hotel owner, to visit the kitchen or
stores. He may carry out a kitchen / stores audit, to find out the consumption of various
brands of spice items being used by the Hotel. It may be noted that, the success of an
indirect observation largely depends on "How best the observer is able to identify physical
evidence of the problem under study".
Human-Mechanical Observation
Most of the studies in marketing research based on human observation, wherein trained
observers are required to observe and record their observations. In some cases,
mechanical devices such as eye cameras are used for observation. One of the major
advantages of electrical / mechanical devices is that, their recordings are free from
subjective bias.
Advantages of Observation Method
1. The original data can be collected at the time of occurrence of the event.
2. Observation is done in natural surroundings. Therefore facts are known, where
questionnaire, experiments have environmental as well as time constraint.
3. Sometimes the respondents may not like to part with some of the information.
Those information can be got by the researcher by observation.
4. Observation can be done on those who cannot articulate.
5. Bias of the researcher is greatly reduced in observation method.
Limitations
1. The observer might be waiting at the point of observation. Still the desired event
may not take place i.e. observation is required over a long period of time and hence
delay may occur.
2. For observation, extensive training of observers is required.
3. This is an expensive method.
4. External observation gives only surface indications. To go beneath the surface it is
very difficult. So only overt behaviour can be observed.
5. Two observers, may observe the same event but may draw inference differently.
6. It is very difficult to gather information on (1) Opinions (2) Intentions etc.

96
 Data Collection
10.5 DESIGNING THE QUESTIONNAIRE

Questionnaire, its Importance and Characteristics

Questionnaire: A questionnaire is a tool used to collect the data.
Importance of Questionnaire in MR: To study
1. Behavior, past and present
2. Demographic characteristics such as age, sex, income, occupation
3. Attitudes and opinions
4. Level of knowledge
Characteristics of Questionnaire
1. It must be simple. Respondent should be able to understand the questions
2. It must generate replies, which can be easily recorded by the interviewer
3. It should be specific, so as to allow the interviewer to keep the interview to the
point
4. It should be well arranged, to facilitate analysis and interpretation
5. It must keep the respondent interested throughout

Different Types of Questionnaire

1. Structured non disguised Questionnaire
2. Structured disguised Questionnaire
3. Non structured disguised Questionnaire
4. Non structured-Non disguised Questionnaire
1. Structured non disguised Questionnaire: Here, questions are structured so as to
get the facts. The interviewer will ask the questions strictly as per the pre arranged
order. E.g: What are the strengths of soap A in comparison with soap B?
l Cost is less
l Lasts longer
l Better fragrance
l Produces more lather
l Comes in more convenient sizes
Structured, non disguised is widely used in market research. Questions are presented
with exactly the same wording and same order to all the respondents. The reason for
standardizing question is, to ensure that all respondents reply the same question. The
purpose of the question is clear. The researcher wants the respondent to choose one of
the five options given above. This type of questionnaire is easy to administer. The
respondents have no difficulty in answering. Because it is structured, the frame of
reference is obvious.
In a non-disguised type, the purpose of the questionnaire is known to the respondent.
Example: "Subjects attitude towards cyber laws and need for government legislation to
regulate it."
Certainly not needed at present
Certainly not needed 97
Research Methods for I can't say
Management
Very urgently needed
Not urgently needed
2. Structured disguised Questionnaire: This type of questionnaire is least used in
Marketing research. This type of Questionnaire is used to find, peoples' attitude,
when a direct undisguised question produces a bias. In this type of questionnaire
what comes out is "What does the respondent know rather than what he feels".
Therefore attempt in this method is to find the respondent's attitude.
Currently the "office of profit" bill is
(a) In the Loksabha for approval.
(b) Approved by Loksabha and pending in Rajyasabha.
(c) Passed by both the houses, pending presidential approval.
(d) Bill passed by the president.
Depending on which answer, respondent chooses, his knowledge on the subject is decided.
In a disguised type, the respondent is not revealed the purpose of the questionnaire.
Here the purpose is to hide "What is expected from the respondent?" E.g. (1) "Tell me
your opinion about Mr. Ben's healing effect show conducted at Bangalore?" E.g. (2)
"What do you think regarding Babri Masjid demolition?"
3. Non-Structured and disguised Questionnaire: The main objective is to conceal
the topic of enquiry by using a disguised stimulus. Though the stimulus is standardized
by researcher, respondent is allowed to answer in an unstructured manner. The
assumption made here is that individuals reaction is an indication of respondent's
basic perception. Projective techniques are examples of Non structured disguised
technique. The techniques involve the use of a vague stimulus, that an individual is
asked to expand or describe or build a story, three common types under this category
are (a) Word association (b) Sentence completion (c) Story telling.
4. Non structured - Non disguised Questionnaire: Here the purpose of the study is
clear, but the responses to the question is open ended. Example: "How do you feel
about the cyber law currently in practice and its need for further modification"?
The initial part of the question is constant. After presenting the initial question, the
interview becomes very unstructured as the interviewer probes more deeply.
Respondents subsequent answer determines the direction the interviewer takes
next. The question asked by interviewer varies from person to person. This method
is called "Depth interview". The major advantage of this method is freedom permitted
to the interviewer. By not restricting the respondents for a set of replies, the
experienced interviewers will be above to get the information from the respondent
fairly and accurately. The main disadvantage of this method of interviewing is that,
it takes time, and respondents may not co-operate. Another disadvantage is that
coding of open ended question may pose a challenge. E.g.: When a researcher
asked the respondent "Tell me something about your experience in this hospital".
The answer may be "Well, the nurses are "slow" to attend and Doctor is "rude".
'Slow' and 'rude' are different qualities needing separate coding. This type of
interviewing is extremely helpful in exploratory studies.

98
 Data Collection
10.6 QESTIONNAIRE DESIGNING
The following are the 7 steps:

1
Determine what information
is needed

2
What type of Questionnaire
to be used questionnaire

3
Decide on the type of
Questions

4
Decide on the wording of
Questions

5
Deciding on layout

6
Pretest

7
Revise and prepare final
Questionnaire

10.6.1 Determine what Information is Required

The first question to be asked by market researcher is "What type of information he
needs from the survey?" This is valid because, if he omits some information on relevant
and vital aspects, his research is not likely to be successful. On the other hand, if he
collects information which is not relevant, he is wasting his time and money.
At this stage, information required, and the scope of research should be clear. Therefore
the steps to be followed at the planning stage is,
1. Decide the research issue
2. Get additional information on the research issue, from secondary data and exploratory
research. The exploratory research will suggest "what are the relevant variables?"
3. Gather, what has been the experience with similar study
4. The type of information required. There are several types of information such as
a) awareness, b) facts, c) opinions, d) attitudes, e) future plans, f) reasons.
Facts are usually sought out in marketing research 99
Research Methods for Example 1: Which television programme did you see last Saturday? This needs memory
Management
and respondent may not remember. This is known as recall loss. Therefore Questioning
the distant past should be avoided. Memory of events depends on 1) Importance of the
events (2) Whether it is necessary for the respondent to remember. In the above case,
both the factors are not fulfilled. Therefore the respondent does not remember. On the
contrary birthday or wedding day of individuals is remembered without effort since the
event is important. Therefore researcher should be careful while asking questions of the
past. First, he must make sure that, the respondent has the answer.
Example 2: Do you go to club? He may say 'yes', though it is not true. This may be
because the respondent wants to impress upon the interviewer that he belongs to a well-
to do family and can afford to spend money on club. To get facts, the respondents must
be conditioned (by good support) to part with the correct facts.

10.6.2 Mode of Collecting the Data

The Questionnaire can be used to collect information either through personal interview,
mail or telephone. The method chosen depends on the information required and also the
type of respondent. If the information is to be collected from illiterate, questionnaire
would be a wrong choice.

10.6.3 Type of Questions

Open Ended Questions

These are questions, where respondents are free to answer, in their own words. Example:
"What factor do you consider to buy a suit"? If multiple choices are given, it could be
colour, price, style, brand etc., but some respondents may mention items which may not
occur to the researcher.
Therefore open ended questions are useful in exploratory research, where all possible
alternatives are explored. The greatest disadvantage of open ended questions is that,
researcher has to note down the answer of the respondents verbatim. Therefore, there
is a possibility of researcher failing to record some information.
Another problem of open ended question is that, the respondents may not use the same
frame of reference.
Example: "What is the most important attribute in a job?"
Ans: Pay
The respondent meant "Basic pay" but interviewer may think that, the respondent is
talking about "Total pay including dearness allowance and incentive". Since both of them
refer to pay, it is impossible to separate two different frames.

Dichotomous Questions
These questions have only two answers, "Yes" or "no", "true" or false" "use" or "don't
use".
Do you use toothpaste? Yes .. No
There is no third answer. However, some times, there can be a third answer: Example:
"Do you like to watch movies?"
Ans: Neither like nor dislike
Dichotomous question are most convenient and easy to answer.
100
Close End Questions Data Collection

There are two basic formats in this type:

l Make one or more choices among the alternatives
l Rate the alternatives
Choice among Alternatives:
Which one of the following words or phrase best describes the kind of person you feel
would be most likely to use this product based on what you have seen in the commercial.
(a) Young old .
Single Married ..
Modern Old fashioned ...
(b) Rating Scale
(I) Please tell us your overall reaction to this commercial?
1. A great commercial, would like to see again
2. Just so, so like other commercials
3. Another bad commercial
4. Pretty good commercial
(II) Based on what you saw in the commercial, how interested do you feel, you would
be buying the products?
l Definitely
l Probably would buy
l May or may not buy
l Probably would not buy
l Definitely would not buy
Closed ended questionnaire are easy to answer. It requires less effort by the interviewer.
Tabulation, analysis is easier. There is less error, since same questions are asked to
everyone. Time taken to respond is less. We can compare the answer of one respondent
to another respondent.
One basic criticism of closed ended questionnaire is that, middle alternatives are not
included in this. Such as "don't know". This will force the respondents, to choose among
the given alternative.

10.6.4 Question Wording

Wordings of particular questions can have a large impact on how respondent interprets.
Even a small shift in the wording can shift respondent's answer.
Example 1: "Don't you think that, Brazil played poorly in the FIFA cup?" The answer
will be "yes". Many of them, who do not have any idea about the game, will also say
"yes". If the question is worded slightly differently, the response will be different.
Example 2: "Do you think that, Brazil played poorly in the FIFA cup?" This is a straight
forward question. The answer could be "yes", "no" or "don't know" depending on the
knowledge the respondents have about the game.
One word change as above, different responses will be given by respondents. 101
Research Methods for Guidelines towards the use of correct wording
Management
Is vocabulary simple, and familiar to the respondents?
Example 1: Instead of using the work "reasonably", "usually", "occasionally", "generally",
"on the whole".
Example 2: "How often do you go to a movie? Often, may be once a week, once a
month, once in two months or even more.
Avoid Double Barreled Questions
These are questions, in which respondent can agree with one part of the question, but
not agree with the other or cannot answer without making a particular assumption.
Example 1: "Do you feel, firms today are employee oriented and customer oriented"
There are two separate issues here - [yes] [No]
Example 2: "Are you happy with the price and quality of Branded shampoo?" [yes]
[No]
Avoid Leading And Loading Questions

Leading
Leading question is one, which suggests the answer to the respondent. The question
itself will influence the answer, when respondents get an idea that the data is being
collected by a company, respondents have a tendency to respond positively. Example 1;
"How do you like the programme on "Radio Mirchy"? The answer is likely to be "yes".
The unbiased way of asking is "which is your favorite FM Radio station? The answer
could be any one of the four stations namely 1. Radio City 2. Mirchy 3. Rainbow 4.
Radio-One.

Loading
A leading question is also known as loaded question. In loading, special emphasis is
given to a word or a phrase, which acts as a lead to respondent. Example: "Do you own
a kelvinator refrigerator". Better question would be "what brand of refrigerator do you
own? Don't you think the civic body is "incompetent". Here incompetent is 'loaded'.
Are The Questions Confusing?
If there is a question, which is not clear or confusing, then the respondent gets more
biased rather that getting enlightened. Example: "Do you think that the Government
published book is distributed effectively"? This is not the correct way, since respondent
does not know what is the meaning of the word effective distribution. This is confusing.
The correct way of asking questions is "Do you think that the Government published
books are readily available when you want to buy?" Example: "Do you think whether
value price equation is attractive"? Here respondents may not know the meaning of
value price equation.

10.6.5 Applicability
"Is the question applicable to all respondents"? Respondents may try to answer a question
even though, they don't qualify to do so or may lack opinion. Example 1: "What is your
present education level" 2. "Where are you working" (assume he is employed) 3. "From
which bank have you taken housing loan" (assume he has taken loan).

Avoid implicit assumptions

An implicit alternative, is one that is not expressed in the options. Consider the 2 following
102 questions,
Would you like to have a job, if it is possible? Data Collection
Would you prefer to have a job, or do you prefer to do just domestic work.
Even though, we may say that the 2 questions look similar, they vary widely. The difference
is that, in Q-2 makes explicit the alternative implied in Q-1.

10.6.6 Split Ballot Technique

This is a procedure used wherein 1. The question is split into two halves and
2. Different sequencing of questions is administered to each half. There are occasions
when a single version of questions may not derive the correct answer and the choice is
not obvious to the respondent.
Example: "Why do you use Ayurvedic soap"? One respondent might say "Ayurvedic
soap is better for skin care". Another may say "Dermatologist recommended". Third
might say "It is a soap used by the entire family for several years". The first respondent
is answering "The reason for using it at present". The second responded is answering.
"How he started using". The third respondent, "Stating family tradition for using". As can
be seen, different reference frames are used. The question may be balanced and asked.
Are The Questions Too Long?
Generally as a thumb rule it is advisable to keep the number of words in a question not
exceeding 20. The question given below is too long for the respondent to comprehend, to
answer.

10.6.7 Participation at the expense of Accuracy

Some times the respondent may not have the information that is necessary by the researcher.
Example 1: The husband is asked a question "How much does your family spend on
groceries in a week" Unless the respondent does the grocery shopping himself, he will
not know what he has spent. In a situation like this, it will be helpful to ask "filtered
question". Example of filtered question may be "Who buys grocery in your family"?
Example 2: "Do you have the information of Mr. Ben's visit to Bangalore"? Not only
should the individual have the information but also he or she should remember it. The
inability to remember the information is called as "recall loss".

10.6.8 Pre-testing of Questionnaire

Pre-testing of a questionnaire is done to detect any flaws as follows. E.g. Word used by
the researcher must convey the same meaning to all the respondents. Are instructions to
skip questions clear? One of the prime conditions for pre testing is, sample chosen for
pre testing should be similar to the respondents who are going to participate ultimately.
Just because, a few chosen respondents fill in all the questions, it does not mean that,
questionnaire is sound.
How Many Question To Be Asked?
Questionnaire should not be too long as response will be poor. There is no rule to decide
this. However, the researcher should know that if he was the respondent, how would he
react to a lengthy questionnaire. One way of deciding the length of the questionnaire is
to calculate the time taken to complete the questionnaire. He can give the questionnaire
to a few known people to seek their opinion.

10.7 MAIL QUESTIONNAIRE

10.7.1 Advantages
1. Easier to reach large number of respondents throughout the country
2. Since interviewer is not present face to face, influence of interviewer on the
respondent is eliminated. 103
Research Methods for 3. Where the questions asked, is such that, it cannot be answered immediately, and
Management
needs some thinking on the part of the respondent, Respondent can think over
leisurely and give the answer
4. Saves cost (cheaper than interview)
5. No need to train interviewers
6. Personal and sensitive questions are well answered

10.7.2 Limitations
1. It is not suitable, when questions are difficult and complicated. Example: "Do you
believe in value price relation ship"?
2. When the researcher is interested in spontaneous response, this method is unsuitable.
Because, thinking time given to respondent will influence the answer. Example:
"Tell me spontaneously, what comes to your mind if I ask you about cigarette
smoking".
3. In case of mail questionnaire, it is not possible to verify whether the respondent
himself / herself has filled the questionnaire. If questionnaire is directed towards
the housewife, to find expenditure on kitchen items, she is supposed to answer it.
Instead if her husband answers the questionnaire, the answer may not be correct.
4. Any clarification required by the respondent regarding questions, is not possible.
Example: Prorated discount, product profile, marginal rate etc. may not be understood
by the respondents.
5. If the answers are not correct, the researcher cannot probe further
6. Poor response (30%) - Not all reply.

10.8 SAMPLE QUESTIONNAIRES

10.8.1 A Study of Customer Retention as Adopted by Textile Retail Outlets

Note: Information gathered will be strictly confidential. We highly appreciate your
cooperation in this regard.
1. Name of the outlet:
2. Address:
3. Do you have regular customers?
Yes [ ] No [ ]
4. How often your regular customer visits your outlet?
Weekly [ ] Once in a month [ ] Twice in a month [ ]
Once in 2 months [ ] 2 - 3 months [ ] Once in 6 months [ ]
5. Do you maintain any records of your regular customers?
Yes [ ] No [ ]
6. What percentage of your customers are regular? %[ ]
7. Do you think that we can use the above as a retention strategy of customers for
your outlets?
Yes [ ] No [ ]
8. What are the different products that you handle in your outlets?
Formals [ ] Casuals Kids wear [ ] Ladies dress materials [ ]
104 Sarees [ ] Others (Specify)
9. What type of customers (socio-economic) visits your outlets? Data Collection

Low income [ ] Middle income [ ] High income [ ]

10. Why do you think they come to your outlet?
Product variety [ ] Price discount [ ] Easy gain to products [ ]
Parking facility [ ]Store layout [ ] Quality [ ] Reasonable price [ ]
Others (Specify)
11. Rank the factors that influence the customer to visit your outlet:
Credit facility [ ] Price discount [ ] Gifts [ ] Easy gain to products [ ]
Parking facility [ ] Store layout [ ] Product variety [ ]
Quality and reasonable price [ ] Others (Specify) ----------------------
12. What do customers expect from the retail outlet?
Credit facility [ ] Gift coupon [ ] Price discount [ ]
Price reduction easy accessibility of product [ ] Quality and reasonable price [ ]
Other (Specify) -------------------------
13. Do you have any retention strategy adopted to keep in touch with the customer?
Gifts on special occasion
(a) Birthday gift [ ] (b) Anniversary [ ] (c) Festivals Customer relationship [ ]
Others (Specify) --------------------------
14. Which one do you think is most effective, please rank them?
(a) Birthday gift [ ] (b) Anniversary [ ] (c) Festivals Customer relationship [ ]
Others (Specify) --------------------------
Thanking You for Sparing Your Valuable Time

10.8.2 A Study on Customer Preferences of P.C.

Date:
Place:
Form No: [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
1. Personal Profile
(a) Name: [ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ]
(b) Address: [ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ]
[ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ]
[ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ]
(c) Sex: Male [ ] Female [ ]
(d) Age: [ ] [ ] years
(e) Occupation: Self-employed [ ] Professional [ ] Service [ ] Housewife [ ]
2. Do you own a P.C? Yes [ ] No [ ]
(a) If yes, whether: Branded [ ] unbranded [ ]
(b) If no, do you plan to buy it? Near future [ ] Distant future [ ] Can't say [ ]
(Less than 6 months) (Less than a year)
If so, whether: Branded [ ] unbranded [ ] 105
Research Methods for 3. What is the utility of the PC to you?
Management
Education [ ] Business [ ] Entertainment [ ] Internet /
Communication [ ]
4. What is the most important factor that matters while buying a PC?
Quality [ ] Price [ ] Service [ ] Finance facility [ ]
5. Before deciding on vendor, which factor goes into your consideration?
Vendors Reputation [ ] Technical Expertise [ ] Client Base [ ]
6. How did you come to know about the vendor?
Friendly / Family [ ] Press Adds [ ] Direct Mailers [ ]
Reference Website [ ]
7. Which configuration would you decide on while buying a PC?
Standard [ ] Intermediate [ ] Latest / Advanced [ ]
8. In your PC, would you prefer? Conventional Design [ ] Innovative Design [ ]
if new, Why: New design distract attention -
New design means increased price -
New design is hard to adapt -
If Innovative, why: To create own identify
Out of business need -
Space management -
9. Rate the following four factors important for innovative design, starting with the
most preferred:
A) Size B) Shape C) Colour / ordinary D) Portability and Sturdiness
1. ---------------------------------------- 3. -----------------------------------
2. --------------------------------------- 4. -----------------------------------
10. To what extent the computer would increase your efficiency?
Negligible [ ] 20 - 40% [ ] 40 - 60% [ ] More [ ]
11. How many hours on an average per week would you use your PC?
0 to 5 hours [ ] 6 to 12 hours [ ] 13 to 18 hours [ ] More [ ]
12. While using your PC most of the time would be given for:
Education [ ] Accounting [ ] Net surfing [ ] correspondence [ ]
13. Remarks ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Signature of Respondent ---------------------

10.8.3 Questionnaire (Dealers)

" Survey on dealers / consumers preference of different brands of cements in Tumkur"
Dear Sir / Madan,
106 The information gathered is strictly used for academe purpose. We highly appreciate
your co-operation in this regard. Data Collection

Name ..
Address ..
..
Phone No. ..
1. How long are you in Cement Business ?
Below 1 Year
1 - 5 years
5 - 10 years
Above 10 years
2. Rank your major consumers ?
Consumers Rank
Institutions / companies
Individuals
Building Promoters / Construction Companies
Government Agencies
Small contractors

3. Rank the following brands do you sell according to volume ?

Brands Rank
1. Diamond
2. L&T
3. Ramco
4. Rassi
5. Birla Super
6. Shankar
7. ACC
8. Coramandel
9. Others
4. Rank the following brands that are mostly preferred by consumers.
Brands, Institutions, Individuals, Govt. Small Building, Companies, Agencies
Contractors, Promoters
1. Diamond
2. L&T
3. Ramco
4. Raasi
5. Birla Super
6. Shankar
7. ACC
8. Coramandel
9. Others 107
Research Methods for 5 Rank you're the factors that influence you to stock and sell the following brands.
Management
Factors Rank
1. Quality
2. Consumer requirements
3. Attractive Margins
4. Dealer Incentive
5. Others
6. Mention any promotional activities from your end
Promotional Yes No
Activities
Quantity discount
Price discount
Free Transportation
Free technical advise / information
7. Rank the following qualities that consumers look forward during their purchase of
cements.
Qualities, Institutions, Individuals, Govt. Small Building, Companies, Agencies,
Contractors, Promoters, Quick setting
Price
Durability
Availability
Brand
8. Mention the level of influence of the following factors on your sales behaviour
Factors, Extremely, Somewhat, Indifferent, Not very, Not at all, Influence

Quality
Consumers
Requirements
Attractive
Margin
Dealers
Incentives
Price
Others

Check Your Progress

Design a questionnaire for survey on consumers preferences of mobile phone.

10.9 LET US SUM UP

Sometimes, secondary data may not be able to solve the research problem. In that case
researcher need to turn towards primary data. Primary data may pertain to life style,
income, awareness or any other attribute of individuals or groups. There are 2 ways of
108
collecting primary data namely. (a) Observation (b) By questioning the appropriate sample. Data Collection
Observation method has a limitation i.e., certain attitudes, knowledge, motivation etc.
cannot be measured by this method. For this reason, researcher needs to communicate.
Communication method is classified based on whether it is structured or disguised.
Structured questionnaire is easy to administer. This type is most suited for descriptive
research. If the researcher wants to do exploratory sturdy, unstructured method is better.
In unstructured method questions will have to be framed based on the answer by the
respondent. In disguised questionnaire, the purpose of research is not disclosed to
respondents. This is done so that the respondents might speak the truth instead of giving
some answer which satisfies the researcher.
Questionnaire can be administered either in person or on-line or Mail questionnaire.
Each of these methods have advantages and disadvantages. Questions in a questionnaire
may be classified into (a) Open question (b) Close ended questions (c) Dichotomous
questions etc. While formulating questions, care has to be taken with respect to question
wording, vocabulary, leading, loading and confusing questions should be avoided. Further
it is desirable that questions should not be complex, nor too long. It is also implied that
proper sequencing will enable the respondent to answer the question easily. The
researcher must maintain a balanced scale and must use a funnel approach. Pretesting
of the questionnaire is preferred before introducing to a large population. Personal
interview to gather information is very costly. Therefore sometimes mail questionnaire
is used by researcher to collect the data. However it has its own limitations.
Secondary data are statistics that already exists. These may not be readily used because
these data are collected for some other purpose. There are 2 types of secondary data
(1) Internal and (2) External secondary data. Census is the most important among
secondary data. Syndicated data is an important form of secondary data which may be
classified into (a) Consumer purchase data (b) Retailer and wholesale data (c) Advertising
data. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Secondary data has its own advantages
and disadvantages.

10.10 LESSON-END ACTIVITIES

(i) List some major secondary sources of information for the following:
Market research manager of a tea manufacturing company has to prepare a
comprehensive report on the tea industry as a whole.
(ii) What observation technique would you use to gather the following information:
How do discounts influence the purchase behaviour of customers buying colour
TV?

10.11 KEYWORDS
Depth interview
Disguised
Undisguised
Unstructured observation
Mail questionnaire
Open ended questions
Closed ended questions
Dichotomous question 109
Research Methods for Double barrel question
Management
Leading question
Split ballot technique
Pretest mail questionnaire
Internal data
External data
Syndicated data
Census panel
Retail / Wholesale data
Consumer purchase data
C.M.P

10.12 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is primary data?
2. What are the various methods available for collecting primary data?
3. What are the several methods used to collect data by observation method?
4. What are the advantages and limitations of collecting data by observation method?
5. What is a questionnaire? What are its different types?
6. What are the characteristics of a good questionnaire?
7. What are the limitations of a questionnaire?
8. Explain the steps involved in designing a questionnaire.
9. Explain Open ended & Closed ended questions in a questionnaire.
10. What is a split ballot method? When is it employed?
11. What is questionnaire pretesting?
12. What is a dichotomous question? When is it most appropriate?
13. How does a questionnaire suffer compared to experimentation on account of validity
& reliability?
14. What is meant by pre testing of questionnaire? Why is it required?
15. Distinguish qualitative and quantitative method of data collection.
16. What is mail questionnaire? Explain the advantages and limitations of the same.
17. What is meant by leading / loading question give example?
18. What is meant by double barreled questions?
19. Design a questionnaire to study brand preference for a consumer durable product.
20. What is meant by secondary data?
21. What are the sources of secondary data?
22. What are the types of secondary data?
23. What are the special techniques of secondary data?
24. What are the classification of syndicated data?
25. What are the advantages and limitations of syndicated data?
110
26. What are the advantages and disadvantages of secondary data? Data Collection

27. Discuss the sources of secondary data for the study on "consumer purchasing a
white good".
28. Who are the top 10 advertisers in English movie channels?
29. What are the top 10 magazines?
30. What are the total radio stations of different companies after phase II roll out?

10.13 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E., "Marketing Research, a structure for decision-making", Addison-
Wesley Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R., "Research Methodology- Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.

111
Research Methods for
Management LESSON

11
PILOT STUDY

CONTENTS
11.0 Aims and Objectives
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Case Study
11.3 Data Processing
11.3.1 Preparing Raw Data
11.3.2 Coding
11.3.3 Editing
11.3.4 Tabulation of Data
11.3.5 Summarising the Data
11.3.6 Usage of Statistical Tools
11.3.7 Measures of Dispersion
11.4 Data Analysis
11.4.1 Sales Impact of Different Sale Promotion Methods
11.4.2 Precautions to be taken While Interpreting the Marketing Research Data
11.5 Let us Sum up
11.6 Lesson-end Activity
11.7 Keywords
11.8 Questions for Discussion
11.9 Suggested Readings

11.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study the steps involved in processing the data, editing and coding
the data collected and measures of central tendency and dispersion. After studying this
lesson, you will be able to:
(i) understand the concept of case study.
(ii) steps in processing data.
(iii) analyse data.
(iv) interpret data.

11.1 INTRODUCTION
This is essentially a small scale replica of the actual survey and it is carried out before
the actual survey is undertaken. It should duplicate, as near as possible, the survey
which is to be made because it may reveal snags in the proposed questions and methods.
112
A pilot survey is very useful when the actual survey is to be on a big scale as it may Pilot Study
provide data which will allow costs to be trimmed. Also, a pilot survey will give an
estimate of the non-response rate and it will also give a guide as to the adequacy of the
sampling frame chosen.

11.2 CASE STUDY

The case study is one of several ways of doing social science research. Other ways
include experiments, surveys, multiple histories, and analysis of archival information.
Rather than using large samples and following a rigid protocol to examine a limited
number of variables, case study methods involve an in-depth, longitudinal examination of
a single instance or event: a case. They provide a systematic way of looking at events,
collecting data, analyzing information, and reporting the results. As a result the researcher
may gain a sharpened understanding of why the instance happened as it did, and what
might become important to look at more extensively in future research. Case studies
lend themselves to both generating and testing hypotheses.
Yin, on the other hand, suggests that case study should be defined as a research strategy,
an empirical inquiry that investigates a phenomenon within its real-life context. Case
study research means single and multiple case studies, can include quantitative evidence,
relies on multiple sources of evidence and benefits from the prior development of theoretical
propositions. He notes that case studies should not be confused with qualitative research
and points out that they can be based on any mix of quantitative and qualitative evidence.
The case study is a research approach, situated between concrete data taking techniques
and methodological paradigms.
SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA

11.3 DATA PROCESSING

Data Processing
Processing data is very important in market research. After collecting the data. The
next job of the researcher is to analyze and interpret the data. The purpose of analysis is
to draw conclusion. There are two parts in processing the data.
(1) Data Analysis
(2) Interpretation of data
Analysis of the data involves organizing the data in a particular manner. Interpretation of
data is a method for deriving conclusions from the data analyzed. Analysis of data is not
complete, unless it is interpreted.

Steps in Processing of Data

1. Preparing raw data
2. Coding
3. Editing
4. Tabulation of data
5. Summarising the data
6. Usage of statistical tool.

11.3.1 Preparing Raw Data

Data collection is a significant part of market research. Even more significant is, to filter
out the relevant data from the mass of data collected. Data continues to be in raw form,
unless they are processed and analyzed. 113
Research Methods for Primary data collected by surveys, observations by field investigations are hastily entered
Management
into questionnaires. Due to the pressure of interviewing, the researcher has to write
down the responses immediately. Many times this may not be systematic. The information
so collected by field staff is called raw data.
The information collected may be illegible, incomplete and inaccurate to some extent.
Also the information collected will be scattered in several data collection formats. The
data lying in such a crude form are not ready for analysis. Keeping this in mind the
researcher must take some measures to organize the data, so that it can be analyzed.
The various steps which are required to be taken for his purpose are (a) editing and
(b) coding and (c) tabulating.

11.3.2 Coding
Coding refers to all those activities which helps in transforming edited questionnaires
into a form which is ready for analysis. Coding speeds up the tabulation while editing
eliminates errors. Coding involves assigning numbers or other symbols to answers, so
that the responses can be grouped into limited number of classes or categories
Example: 1 is used for male and 2 for female.
Some guidelines to be followed in coding which is as follows.
1. Establishment of appropriate category
2. Mutual exclusivity
3. Single Dimension

Establishment of appropriate category

Example: Suppose the researcher is analysing the inconvenience that car owner is
facing with his present model. Therefore the factor chosen for coding may be
inconvenience. Under this there could be 4 types (1) Inconvenience to enter the
backseat (2) Inconvenience due to insufficient legroom (3) Inconvenience with respect
to interior (4) Inconvenience in door locking, and dickey opening. Now the researcher
may classify these 4 answers based on internal inconvenience and other inconvenience
referring to exterior. Each is assigned a different number for the purpose of codification.

Mutually exclusive
This is important because, the answer given by the respondent should be placed under
only one category. Example: Occupation of an individual may be answered as
(1) Professional (2) Sales (3) Executive (4) Manager etc.
Some times respondents might think that, they belong to more than one category. This is
because a sales personal, may do sales Job, therefore he should be placed under sales
category. Also, he may be head, supervising the work of other sales executive. In this
case he is doing a managerial function. Viewed in this context, he should be placed under
manager category which has a different code. Therefore he can only be put under one
category which is to be decided. One way of deciding this could be to analyse which of
2 functions does he spend most time?
Yet another scenario is that, assume that there is a salesman who is currently employed.
Under column occupation, he will tick it as sales, under current employment column, he
will mark unemployed. Therefore how to codify? Under which category he should be
placed. One of the solutions is to have a classification, such as employed salesman,
unemployed salesman to represent 2 separate category.

114
 Pilot Study
Questions Answer Codes
1. Do you own a vehicle Yes 1
No 2
2. What is your occupation Salaried S
Business B
Retired R
Technical T
Consultant C

11.3.3 Editing
The main purpose of editing is to eliminate errors and confusion. Editing involves inspection
and correction of each questionnaire. The main role of editing is to identify commissions,
ambiguities and errors in response.
Therefore editing means, the activity of inspecting, correcting and modifying the correct
data.
This can be done in two stages (a) Field editing (b) Office editing

Field editing
A field editing has 2 objectives (a) To make sure that proper procedure is followed in
selecting the respondent, interview them and record their responses. In field editing,
speed is the main criteria, since editing should be done, when the study is still under
progress. The main problems faced in field editing are
(1) Inappropriate respondents
(2) Incomplete interviews
(3) Improper understanding
(4) Lack of consistency
(5) Legibility
(6) Fictitious interview
Example:
1. Inappropriate respondents: It is intended to include "House owners" in the sample
for conducting the survey. If "tenant" is interviewed, it would be wrong.
2. Incomplete interview: All questions are to be answered. There should not be any
"blanks". Blank can have different meanings. E.g. (a) No answer (b) Refusal to
answer (c) Question not applicable (d) Interviewer by over sight did not record.
The reason for no answer could be that the respondent honestly does not know the
answers. Sometimes the respondent is not answering, may be because of sensitivity
or emotional aspect of the question
3. Lack of understanding: The interviewer in a hurry would have recorded some
abbreviated answer. Later at the end of the day, he can't find out, what it meant.
4. Consistency: Earlier part of the questionnaire indicates that there are no children
and in the later part, age of the children is mentioned.
5. Legibility: If what is said is not clear, the interviewer must clarify the same on the
spot.
6. Fictitious interview: This amounts to cheating by the interviewer. Here
questionnaires are filled without conducting interviews. Surprise check by superior
is one way to minimize this.

Office editing
Office editing is more thorough than field editing. The job of office editor is more difficult
than field editor. In case of mail questionnaire there are no other methods, except to
conduct office audit. Examples are as below which illustrates the kind of problem faced
115
Research Methods for by office editor. Consistency, respondents rapport problems are some of the issues which
Management
gets highlighted in the office editing.
Example:
1. Respondent indicated that he doesn't drink coffee, but when questioned about the
favourite brand, he said "Bru".
2. A rating scale given to a respondent states, semantic differential scale with 10
items. The respondent has ticked "strongly agree" to all the 10 items.
3. What is the most expensive purchase you have made in the last one year is the
question. Two respondents answering as (1) LCD TV (2) Trip to USA.
In Example-1 above, there is inconsistency. There are two possibilities which an editor
need to consider. (1) Was the respondent lying (2) Did the interviewer record wrongly.
The editor has to look in to answer to other questions on beverages, and interpret the
right answer.
In Example-2 above, it is to be remembered that semantic differential scale consists of
items which has alternately positive and negative connotations. If a respondent has marked
both positive and negative as "agreed", the only conclusion the editor can draw is that the
respondent is filling the questionnaire without knowledge. Therefore editor will discord
this questionnaire, since there are no alternatives.
In Example-3 above, both the respondents have answered correctly. The frame of
reference is different. The main problem is, one of them is product, the other is a service
while coding the data, the two answers should be put under two different categories.
Answers to open ended questions poses great difficulty in editing.

11.3.4 Tabulation of Data

Tabulation refers to counting the number of cases that fall into various categories. The
results are summarized in the form of statistical tables. The raw data is divided into
groups and subgroups. The counting and placing of data in particular group and subgroup
are done. Tabulation involves
(1) Sorting and counting
(2) Summarizing of data
Tabulation may be of 2 types (1) simple tabulation (2) cross tabulation. In simple tabulation,
a single variable is counted. Cross tabulation includes 2 or more variables, which are
treated simultaneously. Tabulation can be done entirely by hand or by machine or both
hand and machine.
The form in which tabulation is to be done is decided by taking into account. (1) Purpose
of study and (2) use of statistical tools e.g. mean, mode, standard deviation etc. Improper
tabulation may create difficulties in the use of the these tools.

Sorting and Counting of Data

Sorting by manual method is as follows:
Sorting of data
Income (Rs.) Tally Mark Frequencies
1,000 IIII 5
1,500 IIII III 8
2,000 IIII IIII II 12
2,500 IIII IIII IIII I 16
116
The above method is used commonly for sorting of data.
The tabulation may include table number, title, head note, stub, caption, sub entries, body Pilot Study
of the table, footnote and source. The following example explains the component of a
table.
Format of a Blank Table.
TABLE No.
TITLE - No. of children per family
Head Note - Unit of measurement
Caption
Sub Total
Heading
Body

Foot note

The table must have a clear and brief title. The head note, usually the measurement unit,
is placed at the top of the table in the right hand corner in a bracket.
Stub indicates the row title or the row headings and is placed in the left-hand column.
Caption indicates that each column is meant for.
Sub entries are sub-group of the stub. Body of the table given full information of the
frequency.

Kinds of Tabulation
Simple or one way tabulation
The multiple choice questions which allow only one answer may use one way tabulation
or univariate. The questions are predetermined and consists of counting the number of
responses falling into a particular category and calculate the percentage. There may be
2 types of univariate tabulation:
(a) Question with only one response.
(b) Multiple response to question
Question with only one response
If question has only one answer, tabulation may be of the following type:
Table No. 1
Study of No. of children in a family
No. of children Family Percentage
0 10 5
1 30 15
2 70 35
3 60 30
4 20 10
More than 4 10 5
200 100

Question with multiple response

Sometimes respondents may give more than one answer to a given question. In this case
there will be an overlap and response when tabulated need not add to 100 percent.
117
Research Methods for Table No. 2
Management
Choice of an automobile
What do you dislike about the car which you own at present?
Parameter No. of respondents
Engine 10
Body 15
Mileage 15
Interior 06
Colour 18
Maintenance frequency 16
Inconvenience 20
There is duplication because respondents may be dissatisfied with mileage given by
vehicle and also may dislike interior of the car. Here, there are more than one parameter
to dislike the car by the car owner. Suppose we are tabulating the cause of inconvenience
felt by the car owner, it can be classified as follows:
1. Cramped legroom
2. Rear seat problem
3. Difficulty to raising the window
4. Difficult in locking the door
Now the tabulation of each of the specific factors would help to identify the real problem
for dislike.
Cross tabulation or 2-way tabulation
This is known as bivariate tabulation. The data may include 2 or more variable. Cross
tabulation is very commonly used in market research.
Example: Popularity of a health drink among families having different income. Suppose
500 families are met and data collected is as follows:
No. of children per family
More
Income per month No. of families
0 1 2 3 4 5 than
5
<1000 5 0 8 9 11 15 25 73
1001-2000 10 5 8 10 13 18 27 91
2001-3000 20 10 12 14 20 22 32 130
3001-4000 12 3 6 7 13 20 30 91
4001-5000 6 2 6 5 10 15 20 64
> 5000 6 1 4 5 7 10 18 51
59 21 44 50 74 100 152 500

Note: Table shows that consumption of a health drink not only depends on income but
also on the number of children per family
Health drink is also very popular among the family with no children. This shows that
even adults consume this drink. It is obvious from the table that, 59 out of 500 families
consume health drink even though they have no children. Table also shows that families
in the income group of 2001 to 3000 consume the health drink most.

11.3.5 Summarising the Data

Before taking up summarizing, the data should be classified into (1) Relevant data (2)
Irrelevant data. During the field study, the researcher has collected lot of data which he
may think would be of use. Summarizing the data includes (1) Classification of data (2)
Frequency distribution (3) Use of appropriate statistical tool.
118
Classification of Data Pilot Study

(a) Number of Groups: Number of groups should be sufficient to record all possible
data. Classification should not be too narrow. If it is too narrow, there can be an
overlap.
Example: If a researcher is conducting a survey on "Why the current car owner
dislikes the car"? The car owner may indicate the following:
(1) Difficulty in seeking entry to the back seat
(2) Interior space
(3) Cramped leg room
(4) Mileage
(5) Rattling of the engine
(6) Dickey space
Now all the above data can be classified into 2 or 3 categories such as (1) Discomfort
(2) Expense (3) Pride (4) Safety (5) Design of the car.
(b) Width of the Class Interval: Class interval should be uniform and should be of
equal width. This will give consistency in the data distribution.
(c) Exclusive categories: Classification made should be done in such a way that, the
response can be placed in only one category.
Example: Problem of Leg room is the answer by respondent. This should be placed
either under Discomfort or Design but not both.
(d) Exhaustive Categories: This should be made to include all responses including
"Don't Know" answers. Sometimes this will influence the ultimate answer to the
research problem.
(e) Avoid extremes: Avoid open ended class interval.

Check Your Progress

1. How pilot survey is an essence?

2. How coding is different from editing?
3. What is office editing?

11.3.6 Usage of Statistical Tools

Frequency distribution
Frequency distribution, simply reports the number of responses that each question
received. Frequency distribution, organizes data into classes or groups. It shows the
number of data that falls into particular class.
Example: of frequency distribution:
Income No. of people
4000-6999 100
7000-9999 122
10000-12999 140

In marketing research central value or tendency plays a very important role. The
researcher may be interested in knowing the average sales/shop, average consumption
per month etc. The population parameters can be calculated with the help of simple
average. The average of sample may be taken as population parameter. E.g. If the
average income of the population is to be computed, the researcher may select a sample,
collect data on family income and calculate the relevant statistics which will be a
119
representative of the population.
Research Methods for The total purchasing power of the community can be estimated on sample average. If
Management
the sample is stratified, the purchasing power of each income class may also be estimated.
The median figure will reveal that half the population has more income than the median
income, and half the population has less income than median income. The mode will
reveal the most common frequency. Based on this, shoppers can play their strategy to
sell the product.
The 3 most common ways to measure centrality or central tendency is mode, median
and mean.

Mode
The mode is the central value or item, that occurs most often, when data is categorized
in a frequency distribution, it is very easy to identify the mode, since the category in
which the mode lies has the greatest number of observations.
Example: Data regarding household income of 300 people as tabulated by researcher.
Income (Rs.) Number (f) Cumulative Frequency
upto 10000 30 30
10000-14999 125 155
20000-24999 50 205
25000-29999 30 235
30000-34999 33 268
35000-49999 20 288
above 35000 12 300

In the above table 125 is the modal class

Mode can be calculated using the formula:

D
M 0 = LM 0 1 i
D1 + D 2

LM0 = Lower limit of modal class

D1= Difference between the frequency of modal class and the class immediately
preceding the modal class
D2 = Difference between the frequency of the modal class and the class immediately
succeeding the modal class.
i = size of the modal class interval
95
M d = 10,000 + 5,000
95 + 75
substitute the values
95
= 10000+
170
= 5000 = 1000+2794 = 12794 Rs.
Conclusion: Majority have the income of Rs 12794. This is how statistical techniques
are used in MR application.

Median
Median lies precisely halfway between highest and lowest values. It is necessary to
arrange the data into ascending or descending order before selecting the median value.
120
For ungrouped data with an odd number of observation, the median would be the middle Pilot Study

value. For even number of observations, the median value is half way between central
value.
For a grouped data median is calculated using the formula

N
2 - C.F
M d = LM d i
fMd

M d = Lower limit of median class

CF = Cumulative frequency for the class just below the median class.
fmd: Frequency of the median class.
i = Size of the class interval of median class.
In the table N = 300 N/2 = 150. The class containing the 150th person is the median
class.
Substitute the value, we get median Md = 21568
Conclusion: Half of the population has income> 21568' and half of the population has
income < 21568.

Mean
In a grouped data, the midpoint of each category would be multiplied by the number of
observation in that category. Sum up and the total to be divided by the total number of
observation.

fx
Eqn., X =
f

Example: 2 students X, Y attend 3 classes tests and the scores areas follows:
Though Mean is same, X is better than Y.
11.3.7 Measures of Dispersion
Introduction
Dispersion is the spread of the data in a distribution. A measure of dispersion
Marks 1st Test 2nd Test 3rd Test Mean
X 55% 60% 65% 60%
Y 65% 60% 55% 60%
Conclusion X - has improved
Y - has Deteriorated

Mean 121
Research Methods for Indicates the degrees of scattered ness of the observations. Let curves A and B represent
Management
two frequency distributions. Observe that A and B have the same mean. But curve A
has less variability than B.
If we measure only the mean of these two distributions, we will miss an important
difference between A and B. To increase our understanding of the pattern of the data
we must also measure its dispersion.

Measures of Dispersion
Range: It is the difference between the highest and lowest observed values.
i.e. range = H L, H = Highest, L = Lowest.
Note 1: Range is the crudest measure of dispersion.

HL
2: is called the coefficient of range.
H+L
Semi Inter quartile Range (Quartile deviation) semi Inter quartile range Q.

Q -Q
Q is given by Q = 3 1
2

Q -Q
3 1
Note 1: is called the coefficient of quartile deviation.
Q +Q
3 1

2: Quartile deviation is not a true measure of dispersion but only a distance of scale.
Mean Deviation (MD): If A is any average then mean deviation about A is given by

fi | x i - A |
MD(A) =
N

fi | x i - x |
Note 1: Mean deviation about mean MD ( x ) =
N
2: Of all the mean deviations taken about different averages mean derivation about the
median is the least.

3: MD(A) is called the coefficient of mean deviation.

A
Variance and Standard deviation
Variance (s2 ) A measure of the average squared distance between the mean and each
term in the population.

1 2
s2 = f (x x)
N i i
Standard deviation (s) is the positive square root of the variance

1 2
s= f (x x)
i i
N

1 2 2
s2 = f (x (x)
122
N i i
Note: Combined variance of two sets of data of N1 and N2 items with means x1 and x2 Pilot Study
and standard deviations s1 and s2 respectively is obtained by

2
N 1 12 + N 2 22 + N d 12 + N d 2
2 1 1
s =
N1 + N 2

2 2
Where d 1 = ( x x1 ) 2 , d 2 = ( x x 2 ) 2

N1 x1 + N 2 x 2
and x =
N1 + N 2

Sample variance (s2) : Let x1, x2, x3, xn, represents a sample with mean x
Then sample variance s2 is given by
2
(x x)
s2 =
n 1

2 n(x)2
x
=
n 1 n 1

2
(x x) x
2 n(x)2
Note: s = = is called the sample standard deviation.
n-1 n 1 n 1

Coefficient of variation (C.V)

It is a relative measure of dispersion that enables us to compare two distributions. It
relates the standard deviation and the mean by expressing the standard deviation as a
percentage of the mean.

C.V. = 100
x
Note : 1. Coefficient of variation is independent of the unit of the observation.
2. This measure cannot be used when x is zero or close to zero.
Illustration 1: For the data
103, 50, 68, 110, 105, 108, 174, 103, 150, 200, 225, 350, 103 find the Range,
Coefficient of range and coefficient of quartile deviation.
Solution : Range = H L = 350 50 = 300

HL 300
Coefficient of range = = = 0.7
H+L 350 + 50
To find Q1 and Q3 we arrange the data in ascending order
50, 68, 103, 103, 103, 103, 105, 108, 110, 150, 174, 200, 225, 350,

n +1 14
= = 3.5,
4 4

3(n +1)
= 10.5
4 123
Research Methods for \ Q1 = 103 + 0.5 (103 103) = 103
Management
Q3 = 174 + 0.5 (200 174) = 187

Q 3 Q1
Coefficient of QD = Q + Q
3 1

84
= = 0.2896
290
Illustration 2: Calculate coefficient of mean deviation about
(i) Median (ii) mean from the following data
X 14 16 18 20 22 24 26
f 2 4 5 3 2 1 4
X F Cf fx |xM| f| x M |
|x Nx| f| x N x |
14 2 2 28 5.71 4 11.42 8
16 4 6 64 3.71 2 14.84 8
18 5 11 90 1.71 0 8.55 0
20 3 14 60 0.29 2 0.87 6
22 2 16 44 2.29 4 4.58 8
24 1 17 24 4.29 6 4.29 6
26 4 21 104 6.29 8 25.16 32
21 414 69.71 68

fi x i 414
x = = = 19.71
N 21

N +1 22
= = 11 \ Median M = 18
2 2

fi | x i - x | 69.71
Now i) M.D ( x ) = = = 3.32
N 21

MD(x) 3.32
Coefficient of MD( x ) = = = 0.16
x 19.71

fi | xi M | 68
ii) M.D (M) = = = 3.24
N 21

MD(M) 3.24
Coefficient of MD (M) = = = 0.18
M 18
Illustration 3: A purchasing agent obtained a sample of incandescent lamps from two
suppliers. He had the sample tested in his laboratory for length of life with following
results.
Length of light In hours Sample A Sample B
700 900 10 3
900 1100 16 42
1100 1300 26 12
1300 1500 8 3
124
Which company's lamps are more uniform. Pilot Study

Solution: Table 1

Class interval Midpoint x x 1000 fu fu2

Sample A u=
200
700 900 10 800 -1 - 10 10

900 1100 16 1000 0 0 0

1100 1300 26 1200 1 26 26

1300 1500 8 1400 2 16 32

60 32 68

32
u A
= = 0.533
60

x A = 1000 + 200
\ x A= 1000 + 200 (0.533) = 1106.67
1 68
s 2
u
=
2
= fu ( u ) = (0.533 )2
N 60
= 1.133 - 0.2809
2
s u
= 0.8524
su = 0.9233
sx = 200 x 0.9233 = 184.66

A
\ CV for sample A = x 100
xA

= 184.66 x 100 = 16.68 %

1106.67
Table 2
Class interval Midpoint x x 1000 fu fu2
Sample B u=
200
700 900 3 800 -1 -3 3

900 1100 42 1000 0 0 0

1100 1300 12 1200 1 12 12

1300 1500 3 1400 2 6 12

60 15 27

15
V = 60 = 0.25

x B = 1000 + 200 V
= 1000 + 58
\ x B = 1058 125
Research Methods for
Management 1 27
s 2v = 2 -( V )2 = - (0.25)2
N fv 60
= 0.45 - 0.0625
s 2v = 0.3875

s v = 0.6225
sB = 200 s v
= 200 x 0.6225
=124.5
B
C.V for Sample B = x x 100
B

124.5
x 100 = 11.77 %
1058
Since C,V. for sample B is smaller, sample B lamps are more uniform.

11.4 DATA ANALYSIS

Interpretation means bring out the meaning of data or we can say that interpretation is to
convert data into information. The essence of any research is to draw conclusion about
the study. This requires high degree of skill. There are 2 methods of drawing conclusions
1) induction 2) deduction.
In induction method, one starts from observed data and then generalization is done,
which explains the relationship between objects observed.
On the other hand, deductive reasoning starts from some general law and then applied to
a particular instance i.e., deduction comes from general to a particular situation.
Example of induction: All products manufactured by Sony are excellent. DVD player
model 2602MX is made by Sony. Therefore it must be excellent.
Example of Deduction: All products have to reach decline stage one day and become
obsolete. This Radio is in decline mode. Therefore it will become obsolescent.
During inductive phase, we reason from observation. During deductive phase, we reason
towards observation. Both logic and observation are essential for interpretation.
Successful interpretation depends on 'How Well the data is analyzed'. If data is not
properly analyzed, the interpretation may go wrong. If analysis has to be corrected, then
data collection must be proper. Similarly if data collected is proper but analyzed wrongly,
then also the interpretation or conclusion will be wrong. Sometimes even with proper
data and proper analysis, can still lead to wrong interpretation. Interpretation depends
on. Experience of the researcher and methods used by him for interpretation.
Example: A detergent manufacturer is trying to decide, which of the 3 sale promotion
methods (Discount, contest, buy one get one free) would be most effective in increasing
the sales. Each sales promotion method is run at different times in different cities. The
sales got by the different sale promotion is a follows.

11.4.1 Sales Impact of Different Sale Promotion Methods

Sales Promotion Method Sales Associated with Sales Promotion
1 2000
2 3500
126 3 2510
The results can conclude that the second Sales Promotion method was the most effective Pilot Study
in developing sales. This may be adopted nationally to promote the product. But one
cannot say that the same method of sales promotion will be effective in each and every
city under study.

11.4.2 Precautions to be taken While Interpreting the Marketing Research

Data
1) Keep the main objective of the research in mind.
2) Analysis of data should start from simpler and more fundamental aspects.
3) It should not be confusing.
4) Sample size should be adequate.
5) Take care before generalization of the sample studied.
6) Give due attention to significant questions.
7) Do not miss the significance of some answers, because they are found from a very
few respondents, such as "don't know" or "can't say".

11.5 LET US SUM UP

Data when collected is raw in nature. When processed, it becomes information without
data analysis, and interpretation, researcher cannot draw any conclusion. There are
several steps in data processing such as editing, coding and tabulation. The main idea of
editing is to eliminate errors. Editing can be done in the field or by sitting in the office.
Coding is done to enter the data to the computer. In other words, coding speeds up
tabulation. Tabulation refers to placing data into different categories. Tabulation may be
one way, two way or cross tabulation. Several statistical tools such as mode, median,
mean is used. Lastly interpretation of the data is required to bring out meaning or we
can say data is converted into information. Interpretation can use either induction or
deduction logic. While interpreting certain precautions are to be taken.

11.6 LESSON END ACTIVITY

A highway petrol police on NH4want to find out how fast the car and the truck travels on
this highway stretch. To obtain this information a speed recordingdevice at an appropriate
place on the highway was installed. The speed was recorded for about three hours and
the following data was recorded:
Speed in miles/hr.
73 49 70 63
55 61 60 68
52 50 69 60
65 66 59 62
Calculate the appropriate statistics for central tendency and dispersion.

11.7 KEYWORDS
Editing
Coding
Tabulation
Field editing
Office editing 127
Research Methods for Mode
Management
Median
Mean
Dispersion

11.8 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is data processing?
2. What are the steps in data processing?
3. What is editing?
4. What are the stages of editing?
5. What is coding? What are the guidelines to codify the data?
6. What is tabulation?
7. What are the different kinds of tabulation?
8. How to summarise & classify the collected data?
9. Explain the following:
(a) Mode (b) Median (c) Mean
10. What is measure of dispersion?
11. Explain the following:
(a) Mean Deviation (b) Variance & Standard deviation
(c) Coefficient of variation
12. Explain: How to interpret the collected data?
13. Explain Induction & Deduction with examples.
14. What are the precautions to be taken while interpreting marketing research data?
15. Discuss sampling and non-sampling methods
16. What are sampling and non-sampling errors?
17. What are statistical estimates?
18. What are point and interval estimates?
19. How to calculate the interval estimate of the mean from large samples?
20. How to calculate the interval estimate of the proportion when
(a) Population portion is unknown
(b) Using T distribution

11.9 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E., "Marketing Research, a structure for decision-making", Addison-
Wesley Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R., "Research Methodology - Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
128 Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.
UNIT-IV
LESSON

12
TEST OF SIGNIFICANCE

CONTENTS
12.0 Aims and Objectives
12.1 Introduction
12.1.1 Degree of Freedom
12.1.2 Make Decisions
12.2 Assumptions about parametric and non-parametric Test
12.2.1 Parametric Test
12.2.2 Non-parametric Test
12.3 Parametric Tests
12.3.1 T-test (Parametric test)
12.3.2 Null Hypothesis
12.3.3 Alternative Hypothesis
12.4 F Test
12.4.1 Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)
12.4.2 One-way ANOVA
12.4.3 Two-way ANOVA
12.5 SPSS and its Applications
12.6 Let us Sum up
12.7 Lesson-end Activity
12.8 Keywords
12.9 Questions for Discussion
12.10 Suggested Readings

12.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study to decide level of significance, one-tailed and two-tailed test,
parametric test and application of SPSS. After studying this lesson you will be able to:
(i) know assumptions, advantages and disadvantages of parametric and non-parametric
test.
(ii) describe T-test and F-test.
(iii) Analyse ANOVA.
(iv) understand SPSS and its applications.
Research Methods for
Management 12.1 INTRODUCTION
Having formulated the hypothesis, the next step is its validity at a certain level of
significance. The confidence with which a null hypothesis is accepted or rejected depends
upon the significance level. A significance level of say 5% means that the risk of making
a wrong decision is 5%. The researcher is likely to be wrong in accepting false hypothesis
or rejecting a true hypothesis by 5 out of 100 occasions. A significance level of say 1%
means, that the researcher is running the risk of being wrong in accepting or rejecting
the hypothesis is one of every 100 occasions. Therefore, a 1% significance level provides
greater confidence to the decision than 5% significance level.
There are two type of tests.
One-tailed and two-tailed tests
A hypothesis test may be one-tailed or two-tailed. In one-tailed test the test-statistic for
rejection of null hypothesis falls only in one-tailed of sampling distribution curve.

Reject H0

Example 1: In a right side test, the critical region lies entirely in the right tail of the sample
distribution. Whether the test is one-sided or two-sided - depends on alternate hypothesis.
Example 2: A tyre company claims that mean life of its new tyre is 15,000 km. Now
the researcher formulates the hypothesis that tyre life is = 15,000 km.
A two-tailed test is one in which the test statistics leading to rejection of null hypothesis
falls on both tails of the sampling distribution curve as shown.

Reject H0 Reject H0

When we should apply a hypothesis test that is one-tailed or two-tailed depends on the
nature of the problem. One-tailed test is used when the researcher's interest is primarily
on one side of the issue. Example: "Is the current advertisement less effective than the
proposed new advertisement"?
A two-tailed test is appropriate, when the researcher has no reason to focus on one side
of the issue. Example: "Are the two markets - Mumbai and Delhi different to test market
a product?"
Example: A product is manufactured by a semi-automatic machine. Now, assume that
the same product is manufactured by the fully automatic machine. This will be two-sided
132
test, because the null hypothesis is that "the two methods used for manufacturing the Test of Significance
product do not differ significantly".

\ H 0 = 1 = 2

Sign of alternate hypothesis Type of test

= Two-sided
< One-sided to right
> One-sided to left

12.1.1 Degree of Freedom

It tells the researcher the number of elements that can be chosen freely.
Example: a+b/2 =5. fix a=3, b has to be 7. Therefore, the degree of freedom is 1.
Select test criteria
If the hypothesis pertains to a larger sample (30 or more), the Z-test is used. When the
sample is small (less than 30), the T-test is used.
Compute
Carry out computation.
12.1.2 Make Decisions
Accepting or rejecting of the null hypothesis depends on whether the computed value
falls in the region of rejection at a given level of significance.

12.2 ASSUMPTIONS ABOUT PARAMETRIC AND NON-

PARAMETRIC TEST
i. Observations in the population are normally distributed.
ii. Observations in the population are independent to each other.
iii. Population should posses' homogeneous characteristics.
iv. Samples should be drawn using simple random sampling techniques.
v. To use T test sample size should be less than 30.
vi. To use F test sample size should be less than 30.
vii. To use Z test sample size should be more than 30.
viii. To use chi square minimum number of observation should be five.

12.2.1 Parametric Test

1) Parametric tests are more powerful. The data in this test is derived from interval
and ratio measurement.
2) In parametric tests, it is assumed that the data follows normal distributions. Examples
of parametric tests are (a) Z-Test, (b) T-Test and (c) F-Test.
3) Observations must be independent i.e., selection of any one item should not affect
the chances of selecting any others be included in the sample.

12.2.2 Non-parametric Test

Non-parametric tests are used to test the hypothesis with nominal and ordinal data.
(1) We do not make assumptions about the shape of population distribution.
(2) These are distribution-free tests.
(3) The hypothesis of non-parametric test is concerned with something other than the
value of a population parameter.
133
Research Methods for (4) Easy to compute. There are certain situations particularly in marketing research,
Management
where the assumptions of parametric tests are not valid. Example: In a parametric
test, we assume that data collected follows a normal distribution. In such cases,
non-parametric tests are used. Example of non-parametric tests are (a) Binomial
test (b) Chi-Square test (c) Mann-Whitney U test (d) Sign test. A binominal test is
used when the population has only two classes such as male, female; buyers, non-
buyers, success, failure etc. All observations made about the population must fall
into one of the two tests. The binomial test is used when the sample size is small.

Advantages
1. They are quick and easy to use.
2. When data are not very accurate, these tests produce fairly good results.

Disadvantages
Non-parametric test involves the greater risk of accepting a false hypothesis and thus
committing a Type 2 error.
Details of non-parametric tests are given in the next lesson.

12.3 PARAMETRIC TESTS

12.3.1 T-test (Parametric test)
T-test is used in the following circumstances: When the sample size n<30.
Example: A certain pesticide is packed into bags by a machine. A random sample of 10
bags are drawn and their contents are found as follows: 50,49,52,44,45,48,46,45,49,45.
Confirm whether the average packaging can be taken to be 50 kgs.
In this text, the sample size is less than 30. Standard deviations are not known using this
test. We can find out if there is any significant difference between the two means i.e.
whether the two population means are equal.
Illustration: There are two nourishment programmes 'A' and 'B'. Two groups of children
are subjected to this. Their weight is measured after six months. The first group of
children subjected to the programme 'A' weighed 44,37,48,60,41 kgs. at the end of
programme. The second group of children were subjected to nourishment programme
'B' and their weight was 42, 42, 58, 64, 64, 67, 62 kgs. at the end of the programme. From
the above, can we conclude that nourishment programme 'B' increased the weight of the
children significantly, given a 5% level of confidence.
12.3.2 Null Hypothesis
There is no significant difference between Nourishment programme 'A' and 'B'.
12.3.3 Alternative Hypothesis
Nourishment programme B is better than 'A' or Nourishment programme 'B' increase
the children's weight significantly.
Solution:

Nourishment programme Nourishment programme B

A
X
xx
= (x-46)
(x x ) 2 Y
yy (y y ) 2

=(y-57)
44 -2 4 42 -15 225
37 -9 81 42 -15 225
48 2 4 58 1 1
60 14 196 64 7 49
41 -5 25 64 7 49
67 10 100
62 5 25
230 0 310 399 0 674
134
 Test of Significance
xy
t=
1 1
s2 +
n 1 n 2

Here n1 = 5 n1 = 7

x = 230 y = 399

x-x( ) 2
= 310 y-y( )
2
= 674

x 230
x= = = 46
n1 5

y 399
y= = = 57
n2 7

2
s =
1
n1 + n 2 2 {( 2
)
xx + yy ( )}
2

D.F = (n1+n22) = (5+72) = 10

1
s2 = {310 + 674} = 98.4
10

46 57
t=
1 1
98.4 +
5 7
11
=
12
98.4
35
11 11
= =
33.73 5.8
= 1.89

t at 10 d.f. at 5% level is 1.81.

Since, calculated t is greater than 1.81, it is significant. Hence HA is accepted. Therefore
the two nutrition programmes differ significantly with respect to weight increase.
Application of SPSS
1. Open a new spread sheet. Enter the weight of children in first column. First, enter
the weight of children in Group "A" in the first five cells and then the weight of
children in Group "B" in the next 7 cells.
2. In the second column, type a "1" next to each weight of children in group 'A'. Type
a '2' next to each weight of children in Group 'B'.
3. Highlight the heading "Analyse" and go to "Compare means". Then click on
"Independent sample T-test".
135
Research Methods for 4. Under "Grouping variable" click "Define groups". For "Group 1" type "1" and for
Management
"Group 2" type "2". This will indicate the Groups (A and B) weights of the 2 groups
will be compared.
Click on "Continue" and "OK". The output will appear on the screen.

12.4 F TEST
12.4.1 Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)
(a) ANOVA: It is a statistical technique. It is used to test the equality of three or more
sample means. Based on the means, inference is drawn whether samples belongs
to same population or not.
(b) Conditions for using ANOVA:
(1) Data should be quantitative in nature.
(2) Data normally distributed.
(3) Samples drawn from a population follows random variation.
(c) ANOVA can be discussed in two parts :
(1) One-way classification
(2) Two and three-way classification.

12.4.2 One-way ANOVA

Following are the steps followed in ANOVA:
(a) Calculate the variance between samples.
(b) Calculate the variance within samples.
(c) Calculate F ratio using the formula.
F= Variance between the samples / Variance within the sample
(d) Compare the value of F obtained above in (c) with the critical value of F such as
5% level of significance for the applicable degree of freedom.
(e) When the calculated value of F is less than the table value of F, the difference in
sample means is not significant and a null hypothesis is accepted. On the other
hand, when the calculated value of F is more than the critical value of F, the difference
in sample means is considered as significant and the null hypothesis is rejected.
Example
ANOVA is useful.
(1) To compare the mileage achieved by different brands of automotive fuel.
(2) Compare the first year earnings of graduates of half a dozen top business schools.
Application in Market Research
Consider the following pricing experiment. Three prices are considered for a new toffee
box introduced by Nutrine company. Price of three varieties of toffee boxes are Rs. 39,
Rs. 44 and Rs. 49. The idea is to determine the influence of price levels on sales. Five
supermarkets are selected to exhibit these toffee boxes. The sales are as follows:

Price (Rs.) 1 2 3 4 5 Total Sample mean x

39 8 12 10 9 11 50 10
44 7 10 6 8 9 40 8
49 4 8 7 9 7 35 7
136
What the manufacturer wants to know is: (1) Whether the difference among the means Test of Significance
is significant? If the difference is not significant, then the sale must be due to chance. (2)
Do the means differ? (3) Can we conclude that the three samples are drawn from the
same population or not?

12.4.3 Two-way ANOVA

The procedure to be followed to calculate variance is the same as it is for the one-way
classification. The example of two-way classification of ANOVA is as follows:
Example: A firm has four types of machines - A , B, C and D. It has put four of its
workers on each machines for a specified period, say one week. At the end of one
week, the average output of each worker on each type of machine was calculated.
These data are given below:
Average production by the type of machine
A B C D
Worker 1 25 26 23 28
Worker 2 23 22 24 27
Worker 3 27 30 26 32
Worker 4 29 34 27 33

The firm is interested in knowing:

(a) Whether the mean productivity of workers is significantly different.
(b) Whether there is a significant difference in the mean productivity of different types
of machines.
Illustration: Company 'X' wants its employees to undergo three different types of training
programme with a view to obtain improved productivity from them. After the completion
of the training programme, 16 new employees are assigned at random to three training
methods and the production performance were recorded.
The training managers problem is to find out if there are any differences in the
effectiveness of the training methods? The data recorded is as under:
Daily output of new employees

Method 1 15 18 19 22 11
Method 2 22 27 18 21 17
Method 3 18 24 19 16 22 15

Following steps are followed.

1. Calculate Sample mean i.e. x

2. Calculate General mean i.e. x

( )
2
ni xi x
3. Calculate variance between columns using the formula 2 = where
k 1
K = (n1+n2+n3-3).
4. Calculate sample variance. It is calculated using formula:

( )
2
xi x
Sample variance s 2 = where n is No. of observation under each
i n 1
137
method.
Research Methods for
Management 2 ni 1
5. Calculate variance within columns using the formula =
nr k

between column variance

6. Calculate F using the ratio F = within column variance

7. Calculate the number of degree of freedom in the numerator F ratio using equation,
d.f=(No. of samples -1).
8. Calculate the number of degree of freedom in the denominator of F ratio using the

(
equation d.f= ni k )
9. Refer to F table f8 find value.
10. Draw conclusions.
Solution
Method 1 Method 2 Method 3
15 22 24
18 27 19
19 18 16
22 21 22
11 17 15
18
85 105 114

1. Sample mean is calculated as follows:

85 105 114
x1 = = 17 x 2 = = 21 x 3 = = 19
5 5 6
2. Grand mean

15 +18 +19 + 22 +11+ 22 + 27 +18 + 21+17 + 24 +19 +16 + 22 +15 +18

=x=
16
304
= = 19
16

3. Calculate variance between columns:

N x x xx (x x) 2
( )
n xx
2

5 17 19 -2 4 5 4 = 20
5 21 19 2 4 5 4 = 20
6 19 19 0 0 60=0

n (x )
2
i 1 x = 40

( )
2

2 ni xi x 40
= = = 20
k -1 3 1

138 Variance between column = 20

 Training method -1 Training method -2 Training method -3 Test of Significance

xx (x x ) 2
xx (x x ) 2
xx
15-17 (-2)2 = 4 22-21 (1)2 = 1 18-19 (1)2 = 1
18-17 (1)2 = 1 27-21 (6)2 = 36 24-19 (5)2 = 25
2 2
19-17 (2) = 4 18-21 (-3) = 9 19-19 (0)2 = 0
22-17 (5)2 = 25 21-21 (0)2 = 1 16-19 (-3)2 = 9
2 2
11-17 (-6) = 36 17-21 (-4) = 16 22-19 (3)2 = 9
15-19 (-4)2 = 16

(x x ) (x x ) (x x )
2 2 2
= 70 = 62 = 60

( ) ( ) ( )
2 2 2
xx
70 x x 62 x x 60
= = =
n -1 5 1 n 1 5 1 n 1 6 1
4. Sample variance = 70 , 62 , 60
s12 = =17.5 s22 = =15.5 s32 = =12
4 4 5

2 n 1 2
= i
5. Within column variance s1
i k
n

5 1 5 1 6 1
16 3 17.5 + 16 3 15.5 + 16 3 12

4 4 5
= 17.5 + 15.5 + 12
13 13 13

192
Within column variance = = 14.76
13

Between column variance 20

6. F= = = 1.354
Within column variance 14.76
7. d.f of Numerator = (3 1) = 2.

8. d.f of Denominator = n1 k

= (5 - 1) + (5 - 1) + (6 - 1) = 16 - 3 = 13.
9. Refer to table using d.f = 2 and d.f = 13.
10. The value is 3.81. This is the upper limit of acceptance region. Since calculated
value 1.354 lies within it we can accept H0, the null hypothesis.
Conclusion: There is no significant difference in the effect of the three training methods.

Check Your Progress

1. Out of 1% significance level and 5% significance level, which one provide

greater confidence? Justify your answer.
2. When two population are involved then, which test is better to use? Justify
your answer.
139
Research Methods for
Management 12.5 SPSS AND ITS APPLICATIONS
1. Open a new spread sheet (SPSS).
2. Enter the data in the first column grouped according to training method i.e. enter
15,18,19,22,11,22,27 and so on till 16 numbers are in the first 16 cells. Then, in the
second column enter a '1' next to production performance figures of trainees, by
method No. 1. Enter a '2' next to production performance figures of trainees, by
method No. 2.
Finally enter a '3' next to product performance figures of trainees by method No. 3.
This tells the computer which number belongs to the designated group. i.e. the '1'
next to cells containing 15,18,19,22,11 indicates these numbers belong to first group,
which in this case is method 1 of training programme. The same thing applies to '2'
and '3'.
3. At the top of the first column double click on "var0001". Under "Name" type
"Method" in place of "var0001". Then click on "var00002" and type Prod Perf. (cell
limited to eight letters hence abbreviation). Then at the bottom of the spread sheet,
click on "Data view" tab. This exercise will name the categories.
4. At the top of the spread sheet click on "Analyze". Then click on "Compare Means"
and "one-way ANOVA". This commands indicate the statistical test to be run.
5. Using arrows shift "Prod Perf" over to "Dependent list" and shift training to "Factor".
This show that Prod Perf is the dependent variable and training is the independent
variable to be examined.
6. Then click O.K.
7. The SPSS output will appear.

Z test (Parametric test)

a) When sample size is > 30
P1 = Proportion in sample 1
P2 = Proportion in sample 2
Example: You are working as a purchase manager for a company. The following
information has been supplied by two scooter tyres manufacturers.
Company A Company B
Mean life (in km) 13000 12000
S.D (in km) 340 388
Sample size 100 100
In the above, the sample size is 100, hence a Z-test may be used.
b) Testing the hypothesis about difference between two means: This can be used
when two population means are given and null hypothesis is Ho : P1 = P2.
Illustration
In a city during the year 2000, 20% of households indicated that they read 'Femina'
magazine. Three years later, the publisher had reasons to believe that circulation has
gone up. A survey was conducted to confirm this. A sample of 1,000 respondents were
contacted and it was found 210 respondents confirmed that they subscribe to the periodical
'Femina'. From the above, can we conclude that there is a significant increase in the
circulation of 'Femina'?
Solution:
140 We will set up null hypothesis and alternate hypothesis as follows:
Null Hypothesis is H0. = 15% Test of Significance

Alternate Hypothesis is HA. > 15%

This is a one-tailed (right) test.

P
Z=
(1 )
n

210
0.20
Z= 1000
0.20 (1 0.20)
1000

0.21 0.20
Z=
0.2 0.8
1000

0.01
=
0.16
1000

0.1
=
0.4
31.62

0.1
= = 8.33
0.012
As the value of Z at 0.05 =1.64 and calculated value of Z falls in the rejection region, we
reject null hypothesis, and therefore we conclude that the sale of 'Femina' has increased
significantly.

12.6 LET US SUM UP

Hypothesis is a proposition which the researcher wants to verify. There are two types of
hypothesis, descriptive and relationship, there are several types of hypothesis such as
theory, observation, past experience and case studies. There are several characteristics
of the hypothesis, which decides whether a hypothesis is good or bad. Researcher will
form two hypothesis (a) Null hypothesis (b) Alternative hypothesis, for accepting or
rejecting the statement. There are two types of tests one tailed test or two tailed test.
Two types of error may occur while testing hypothesis (a) Hypothesis is rejected when
it is true (b) Hypothesis not rejected when it is false former is known as types error and
later is known as type 2 error.
There are 2 types of statistical test parametric test and parametric test. In parametric
test distribution is considered as normal. Non parametric tests are easy to use. In data
analysis researcher may wish to analyse one or more variable at a time. Z test, T tests
are examples of parametric tests. Based on the size of sample more than 30 or less than
30, appropriate tests are chosen chi square, cox and stuart test, Mann whitney tests are
examples of non parametric test. Rank sum test is used when more than two population
is involved. Goodness of fit is examined by kolmogorw smirnov test.

141
Research Methods for
Management 12.7 LESSON-END ACTIVITY
What hypothesis, test and procedure would you use in the following situation?
A company has 22 sales executives. They underwent a training programme. The test
must evaluate whether the sales performance is unchanged or improved after the training
programme.

12.8 KEYWORDS
Hypothesis
Univariate statistic
Bivariate statistic
Ch-square test
Degree of freedom
F- statistic

12.9 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is Hypothesis?
2. What is null hypothesis and alternate hypothesis?
3. Distinguish between: Theory and Hypothesis?
4. Explain briefly various types of hypothesis.
5. Explain the various sources from which hypothesis are derived?
6. What are the characteristics of hypothesis? Explain each one in detail.
7. What are the various steps used to test hypothesis?
8. What is a one tailed and two tailed test?
9. When is two tailed test preferred to one tail test?
10. What is type I & type II error? Give examples.
11. What is null Hypothesis & alternate Hypothesis?
12. Differentiate univariate Hypothesis from multivariate Hypothesis tests.
13. Distinguish parametric & non parametric test.
14. What is meant by (a) Significance level (b) Degree of freedom?
15. What are univariate and bivariate analysis?
16. What are Z-test and T-test and, when each one is suitable?

12.10 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E., "Marketing Research, a structure for decision making", Addison-
Wesley Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R., "Research Methodology- Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.
142
LESSON

13
NON-PARAMETRIC TESTS

CONTENTS
13.0 Aims and Objectives
13.1 Introduction
13.2 U Tests
13.3 Cox and Stuart Test
13.4 Kruskal-Wallis Test
13.5 Kalmogorov-Smirnov Test
13.6 Run-Test for Randomness
13.7 Sign-Test
13.8 Let us Sum up
13.9 Lesson-end Activity
13.10 Keywords
13.11 Questions for Discussion
13.12 Suggested Readings

13.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This lesson is intended to discuss non-parametric tests for hypothesis testing. After
studying this lesson you will be able to:
(i) determine whether two independent samples have been drawn from the same
population.
(ii) analyse Kruskal-Wallis test for more than two population.
(iii) identify the pairs and decide whether the pairs have more or less similar
characteristic by using sign-test.

13.1 INTRODUCTION
As we have seen in the previous lesson that f-test may not be applicable in all cases of
analysing data of two related samples. In such cases for analysing the data, we may use
non-parametric statistical tests of two related samples. There are three most commonly
used methods for two related samples, which are discussed below.

13.2 "U" TESTS

(Rank Sum test)
This test is used to determine whether two independent samples have been drawn from
the same population. Suppose an experiment has obtained two sets of samples from two
populations and the study wishes to examine whether the two populations are identical.
Research Methods for Example: A computer company XYZ would like to choose the performance of
Management
programmers, working in 2 branches, located in different cities. The performance indices
of employees:
Branch A Branch B
84 76
68 77
78 64
49 62
45 53

To find out whether there is any difference in the performance indices of employees of
the two branches.

13.3 COX AND STUART TEST

This test is used to examine the presence of trends. A set of numbers is said to show
upward trend if the latter numbers in the sequence are greater than the former numbers.
And similarly, one can define a downward trend. How to examine whether a trend is
noticeable in a sequence? Example: Suppose a marketer wants to examine whether its
sales are showing a trend or just fluctuating randomly. Suppose the company has gathered
the monthly sales figures during the past one year month-wise:

Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Sales 200 250 280 300 320 278 349 268 240 318 220 380
From the given data, analyse the sales trend.

13.4 KRUSKAL-WALLIS TEST

We can use the Mann Whitney test; when two populations are involved, the Kruskal-
Wallis test is used, when more than two populations are involved. This test will enable us
to know whether independent samples have been drawn from the same population or
from different populations having the same distribution. This test is an extension of "Mann
Whitney test".
This is a type of Rank Sum test. This test is used to find out whether two or more
independent samples are drawn from an identical population. This test is also called the
H Test. Mann Whitney test is used when only two populations are involved and Kruskal-
Wallis test is used when more than two populations are involved.
Example: In an assembling unit, three different workers do assembly work in shifts.
The data is tabulated as follows:
Shift No. Worker-1 Worker-2 Worker-3
1 25 28 29
2 31 28 30
3 35 29 27
4 33 28 36
5 35 32 31
6 31 32 34
Check whether there is any difference in the production quantum of the three workers:
Illustration: (Kruskal-Wallis Test, H-Test)
Let us assume that there are three categories of workers involved in a building construction.
The wages depends on the skills possessed by them and their availability. The wages of
three categories, namely painter carpenter and plumber are as follows:
Item Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 3
Daily wages Daily wages (Carpenter Daily wages
(Painter Rs.) Rs.) (Plumber Rs.)
1 64 72 51
2 66 74 52
3 72 75 54
144 4 74 78 56
5 80
 Wage-Painter Wage-Carpenter Rs./day Wage-Plumber Non-parametric Tests
Item Rs./day Rs./day
Rs Rank Rs Rank Rs Rank
1 64 5 72 7.5 51 1
2 66 6 74 9.5 52 2
3 72 7.5 75 11 54 3
4 74 9.5 78 12 56 4
5 80 13
Total 276 R1=28 379 R2=53 213 R3=10

Use H-test and state whether the three populations are same or different.
H0 - The wages of the three occupation are the same.
H1 - The wages of the three occupations is not the same.
n1= 4 n2=5 n3=4
n = n1+ n2 n3 = 4+5+4 = 13
R1=28 R2= 53 R3 = 10

R 2
12
H= 1 - 3(n +1)
n ( n +1) n1

12 282 532 102

H= + + - 3(3 +1) = 9.61
13 (13 +1) 4 5 4

At 5% level of significance, for d.f = (3-1)=2, the table value is 5.991. Computed value
9.61 is greater.
Conclusion: Reject the Null hypothesis that the three populations are different.
Application of SPSS
1. Open a new spread sheet.
2. Type the first group of numbers in the first column and the second group of numbers
in the second column.
3. Using the headings of the page and click "Analyse".
4. Click on "Non parametric Tests" and then click on "2" related sample test.
5. Add "Test type" click on "Kruskal".
6. Then shift "var0001" "and var0002" over to "Test pairs list".
7. Click on OK.
The output will appear on the screen.

13.5 KOLMOGOROV-SMIRNOV TEST

This is used for examining the efficacy of fit between observed samples and expected
frequency distribution of data when the variable is in the ordinal scale.
Example:
A manufacturer of cosmetics wants to test four different shades of the liquid foundation
compound - very light, light, medium and dark. The company has hired a market research
agency to determine whether any distinct preference exists towards either extremes. If
so, the company will manufacture only the preferred shade, otherwise, the company is
planning to market all shades. Suppose, out of a sample of hundred, 50 preferred "very
light shade" 30 liked light shade, 15 the medium shade, and 50 dark shade. Do you think
the results show any kind of preference?
Since the shade represents ordering (rank), this test can be used to find the preference. 145
Research Methods for
Management 13.6 RUN-TEST FOR RANDOMNESS
Consider the example of arrival of customers at a branch office of a telephone department
for payment of telephone bills after the due date. The senior officer of the telephone
department wants to verify whether the gender of arriving customer is random.
Example: Sequence of arriving customers is as shown below. M is Male F is Female.
MM FFF MMM FFF M F MMMM FF
No. of male = 10
No. of female = 9
No. of run = 8

13.7 SIGN-TEST
Sign-test is used with matched pairs. The test is used to identify the pairs and decide
whether the pair has more or less similar characteristics.
Example: Suppose, an experiment on the effect of brand name on quality perceptions is
to be conducted. 10 persons are selected and asked to taste and compare the two products
(beverage). One of them is identified as branded well known beverage, and the other is
a new beverage. In reality, the samples are identical. The respondents who tested were
asked to rate the two samples on an ordinal scale. Two hypotheses are set up as follows:
H0 - there is no difference between the perceived qualities of two beverages.
HA - there is a difference in the perceived qualities of two beverages.

Check Your Progress

Discuss the uses of non-parametric test in hypothesis testing.

13.8 LET US SUM UP

We have discussed various non-parametric tests for hypothesis testing. U-test, i.e., rank
sum test, is used to determine whether two independent sample have been drawn from
the same population. Kruskal-Wallis test, which is an extension of Mann Whitney test, is
used when more than two populations are involved. We have also discussed Sign-Test
for matched pairs.

13.9 LESSON-END ACTIVITY

A company has three categories of managers:
1. With professional qualifications but without work experience.
2. With professional qualifications accompanied by work experience.
3. Without professional qualifications but with work experience.
A study was conducted to measure the motivation level of each of the category of
managers. Formulate a hypothesis, suggesting testing procedures to show that there is
no relation between the category of managers and the level of motivation.

146
 Non-parametric Tests
13.10 KEYWORDS
Non-parametric test
Related Samples
Matching pair
Rank-sum Test
Rank correlation Test
Krustal-Wallis test
Rank sum
Multi variate analysis
Parametric test
Non parametric test
Type I error
Variable
Variance
Z-test
T-test
Mann Whitney
"U" test
Cox & Stuart test

13.11 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is cox and stuart test?
2. What is Rank sum Test?
3. Give an example of Kruskal-Wallis test.
4. Write a brief note on application of SPSS in non-parametric Test.
5. Explain run test for randomness

13.12 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E. "Marketing Research, a structure for decision making", Addison- Wesley
Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R. "Research Methodology- Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.

147
Research Methods for
Management LESSON

14
MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS

CONTENTS
14.0 Aims and Objectives
14.1 Introduction
14.2 Factor Analysis
14.3 Cluster Analysis
14.3.1 Process
14.3.2 Interpretation of Results
14.3.3 Cluster Analysis on Three Dimensions
14.4 SPSS and its Applications
14.5 MDS
14.5.1 Multi Dimension Scaling
14.5.2 Use of Multi Dimensional Scaling
14.5.3 What are the Tools used in MDS?
14.5.4 Limitations of MDS
14.6 Discriminant Analysis
14.7 Let us Sum up
14.8 Lesson-end Activity
14.9 Keywords
14.10 Questions for Discussion
14.11 Suggested Readings

14.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

In this lesson we will study bivariate and multivariate analysis and their applications in
business research. After studying this lesson you will be able to:
(i) understand the concept of bivariate and multivariate analysis.
(ii) describe five types of analysis under multivariate analysis.
(iii) use SPSS in multivariate analysis.

14.1 INTRODUCTION
In multivariate analysis, the number of variables to be tackled are many.
Example: The demand for television sets may depend not only on price, but also on the
income of households, advertising expenditure incurred by TV manufacturer and other
similar factors. To solve this type of problem, multivariate analysis is required.
148
Multiple-variate analysis: This can be studied under: Multivariate Analysis

(1) Discriminant analysis

(2) Factor analysis
(3) Cluster analysis
(4) Conjoint analysis
(5) Multidimensional scaling.

14.2 FACTOR ANALYSIS

The main purpose of Factor Analysis is to group large set of variable factors into fewer
factors. Each factor will account for one or more component. Each factor a combination
of many variables. There are two most commonly employed factor analysis procedures.
They are:
(1) Principle component analysis
(2) Common factor analysis.
When the objective is to summarise information from a large set of variables into fewer
factors, principle component factor analysis is used. On the other hand, if the researcher
wants to analyse the components of the main factor, common factor analysis is used.
Example: Common factor - Inconvenience inside a car. The components may be:
1. Leg room.
2. Seat arrangement.
3. Entering the rare seat.
4. Inadequate dickey space.
5. Door locking mechanism.

Principle Component Factor Analysis

Purposes: Customer feedback about a two-wheeler manufactured by a company.
Method: The M.R manager prepares a questionnaire to study the customer feedback.
The researcher has identified six variables or factors for this purpose. They are as
follows:
1. Fuel efficiency (A)
2. Durability (Life) (B)
3. Comfort (C)
4. Spare parts availability (D)
5. Breakdown frequency (E)
6. Price (F)
The questionnaire may be administered to 5,000 respondents. The opinion of the customer
is gathered. Let us allot points 1 to 10 for the variables factors A to F. 1 is the lowest and
10 is the highest. Let us assume that application of factor analysis has led to grouping the
variables as follows:
A, B, D, E into factor - 1
F into Factor -2
C into Factor - 3 149
Research Methods for Factor - 1 can be termed as Technical factor;
Management
Factor - 2 can be termed as Price factor;
Factor - 3 can be termed as Personal factor.
For future analysis, while conducting a study to obtain customers' opinion, three factors
mentioned above would be sufficient. One basic purpose of using factor analysis is to
reduce the number of independent variables in the study. By having too many independent
variables, the M.R study will suffer from following disadvantages:
1. Time for data collection is very high due to several independent variables.
2. Expenditure increases due to the time factor.
3. Computation time is more, resulting in delay.
4. There may be redundant independent variables.

14.3 CLUSTER ANALYSIS

Cluster Analysis is used:
1. To classify persons or objects into small number of clusters or group.
2. To identify specific customer segment for the company's brand.
Cluster Analysis is a technique used for classifying objects into groups. This can be used
to sort data (a number of people, companies, cities, brands or any other objects) into
homogeneous groups based on their characteristics.
The result of Cluster Analysis is a grouping of the data into groups called clusters. The
researcher can analyse the clusters for their characteristics and give the cluster, names
based on these.
Where can Cluster Analysis be applied?
The marketing application of cluster analysis is in customer segmentation and estimation
of segment sizes. Industries, where this technique is useful include automobiles, retail
stores, insurance, B-to-B, durables and packaged goods. Some of the well-known
frameworks in consumer behaviour (like VALS) are based on value cluster analysis.
Cluster Analysis is applicable when:
l An FMCG company wants to map the profile of its target audience in terms of
lifestyle, attitude and perceptions.
l A consumer durable company wants to know the features and services a consumer
takes into account, when purchasing through catalogues.
l A housing finance corporation wants to identify and cluster the basic characteristics,
lifestyles and mindset of persons who would be availing housing loans. Clustering
can be done based on parameters such as interest rates, documentation, processing
fee, number of installments etc.

14.3.1 Process
There are two ways in which Cluster Analysis can be carried out:
1. First, objects/respondents are segmented into a pre-decided number of clusters. In
this case, a method called non-hierarchical method can be used, which partitions
data into the specified number of clusters
2. The second method is called the hierarchical method.
150
The above two are basic approaches used in cluster analysis. This can be used to segment Multivariate Analysis
customer groups for a brand or product category, or to segment retail stores into similar
groups based on selected variables.

14.3.2 Interpretation of Results

Ideally, the variables should be measured on an interval or ratio scale. This is because
the clustering techniques use the distance measure to find the closest objects to group
into a cluster. An example of its use can be clustering of towns similar to each other
which will help decide where to locate new retail stores.
If clusters of customers are found based on their attitudes towards new products and
interest in different kinds of activities, an estimate of the segment size for each segment
of the population can be obtained, by looking at the number of objects in each cluster.
Names can also be given to clusters to describe each one. For example, there can be a
cluster called "neo-rich". Segments are prioritised based on their estimated size.
Marketing strategies for each segment are fine-tuned based on the segment
characteristics. For instance, a segment of customers, like sports car, get a special
promotional offer during specific period.
Example: In cluster analysis, the following five steps to be used:
(1) Selection of the sample to be clustered (buyers, products, employees)
(2) Definition on which the measurement to be made (E.g.: product attributes, buyer
characteristics, employees' qualification)
(3) Computing the similarities among the entities.
(4) Arrange the cluster in a hierarchy.
(5) Cluster comparison and validation.

14.3.3 Cluster Analysis on Three Dimensions

The example below shows Cluster Analysis based on three dimensions age, income and
family size. Cluster Analysis is used to segment the car-buying population in a Metro.
For example "A" might represent potential buyers of low end cars. Example: Maruti 800
(for common man). These are people who are graduating from the two-wheeler market
segment. Cluster "B" may represent mid-population segment buying Zen, Santro, Alto
etc. Cluster "C" represents car buyers, who belong to upper strata of society. Buyers of
Lancer, Honda city etc. Cluster "D" represents the super-rich cluster, i.e. Buyers of
Benz, BMW etc.

Income

B
A

Age

Family size
151
Research Methods for Matching Measure
Management
Example: Suppose there are five attributes, 1 to 5, on which we are judging two objects
A and B. The existence of an attribute may be indicated by 1 and its absence by 0. In this
way, two objects are viewed as similar if they share common attributes.

Attribute 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Brand A 1 0 0 1 0 0 1
Brand B 0 0 1 1 1 0 0
One measure of simple matching S is given by:

a +d
S=
a +b+c+d
Where a = No. of attributes possessed by brands A and B
b = No. of attributes possessed by brand A but not by brand B
c = No. of attributes possessed by brand B but not by brand A
d = No. of attributes not possessed by both brands.

1+ 2 3
Substituting, we get S = = = 0.43
1+ 2 + 2 + 2 7
A and B's association is to be the extent of 43%.
It is now clear that object A possess attributes 1, 4, and 7 while object B possess the
attributes 3, 4 and 5. A glance at the above table will indicate that objects A and B are
similar in respect of 2 (0 & 0), 6 (0 & 0) and 4 (1 & 1). In respect of other attributes,
there is no similarity between A and B. Now we can arrive at a simple matching measure
by (a) counting up the total number of matches - either 0, 0 or 1, (b) dividing this number
by the total number of attributes.
Symbolically SAB = M / N
SAB = Similarity between A and B
M = Number of attributes held in common (0 or 1)
N = Total number of attributes
SAB = 3 / 7 = 0.43
i.e., A & B are similar to the extent of 43%.

14.4 SPSS AND ITS APPLICATIONS

Stage 1
Enter the input data along with variable and value labels in an spss file
1. Click on STATISTICS at the spss menu bar.
2. Click on CLASSIFY followed by HIERACHICAL CLUSTER.
3. Dialogue box will appear select all the variables which are required to be used in
cluster analysis. This can be done by clicking on the right arrow to transfer them
from the variable list on the left.
4. Click on METHOD. The dialogue box will open. Choose " Between Groups Linkage"
as the CLUSTER METHOD.
5. Click CONTINUE to return to main dialogue box.
152
6. Click STATISTICS on the main dialogue box. Choose " Agglomeration schedule" Multivariate Analysis
so that it will appear in the final output click CONTINUE
7. Choose DENDROGRAM then on the box called ICICLE, Choose " All Clusters"
and "Vertical".
8. Click OK on the main dialogue box to get the output of the hierarchical cluster
analysis.
Stage 2
This stage is used to know how many clusters are required. This stage is called K-
MEANS CLUSTERING.
1. Click CLASSIFY, followed by K- FANS CLUSTER desired
2. Fill in the desired number of clusters that has been identified from stage 1
3. Click OPTIONS on the main dialogue box. Select " Initial Cluster Centers". Then
click CONTINUE to return to the main dialogue box.
4. Click OK on the main dialogue box to get the output which has final clusters.
Input data has to be typed in an SPSS file.
1. Click on STATISTICS at the SPSS menu bar
2. Click on CLASSIFY followed by DISCRIMINANT
3. Dialogue box will appear. Select the Grouping Variable. This can be done by clicking
on the right arrow to transfer them from the variable list on the left to the grouping
variable box on the right
4. Define the range of values by clicking on DEFINE RANGE. Enter Minimum and
Maximum value then click CONTINUE.
5. Select all the independent variable for discriminant analysis from the variable list
by clicking on the arrow that transfers them to box on the right.
6. Click on STATISTICS on the lower part of main dialogue box. This will open up a
smaller dialogue box.
7. Click on CLASSIFY on the lower part of the main dialogue box select SUMMARY
TABLE under the heading DISPLAY in a small dialogue box that appears.
8. Click OK to get the discriminant analysis output.

14.5 MDS

14.5.1 Multi Dimension Scaling

This is used to study consumer attitudes, particularly with respect to perceptions and
preferences. These techniques help to identify the product attributes, that are important
to the customers, and to measure their relative importance. MDS is useful in studying
the following:
1. (a) What are the major attributes considered while choosing a product (soft drinks,
modes of transportation). (b) Which attributes customers compare to evaluate
different brand of the product? Is it price, quality, availability etc.?
2. Which is the ideal combination of attributes according to the customer? (i.e., Which
two or more attributes consumer will consider, before deciding to buy).
3. Which advertising messages is compatible with consumer's brand perceptions?
153
Research Methods for This scaling is used to describe similarity and preference of brands. The respondents are
Management
asked to indicate their perception, or the similarity between various objects (products,
brands, etc.) and preference among objects. This scaling is also called as perceptual
mapping.
There are two ways of collecting input data to plot perceptual mapping
(1) Non-attribute method
(2) Attribute method
1. Non-attribute method: Here the researcher asks the respondent to make judgment
about the objects directly. In this method, the criteria for comparing the objects is
decided by the respondent himself.
2. Attribute method: In this method, instead of respondents selecting the criteria, the
respondents are asked to compare the objects based on the criteria specified by
the researcher.
E.g.: To find perception of a consumer: Assume there are 5 insurance companies, to be
evaluated on 2 attributes namely (1) convenient locality (2) courteous personal.
Customers perception regarding the 5 insurance company is as follows:

B
o A
o

Courteous Not Courteous

o
C
o
o C
D
Convenient

A, B, C, D, and E are 5 insurance companies.

From the map B & E are dissimilar insurance companies.
C is located very conveniently
A is less convenient in location compared to E
D is less convenient in location than C
E is less convenient location compared to D

14.5.2 Use of Multi Dimensional Scaling

1. To determine salient product attribute perceived by buyer in the market.
2. To know the combination of attributes buyers must prefer
3. To understand the products which are viewed as substitutes and those that are
154 differentiated.
4. For segmenting the market. Multivariate Analysis

14.5.3 What are the tools used in MDS?

Software such as SPSS, SAS and Excel are the packages used in MDS. Brand positioning
research is one of SPSS's important features. SAS is business intelligence software.
Excel is also used to a certain extent.

14.5.4 Limitations of M D S
1. Conceptual problem: Criteria on which similarities are gauged may vary during an
interview with respondents. They vary depending on what respondent thinks. A
customer may buy something for him self or he may gift a product to others. In
both the cases criteria used for selection are different.
2. Preference: Keeps changing from time to time
3. Complicated computational problem.

Check Your Progress

1. What are the different steps involved in interpretation of results in cluster

analysis?
2. What is multi-dimensional scaling?

14.6 DISCRIMINANT ANALYSIS

In this analysis, two or more groups are compared. In the final analysis, we need to find
out whether the groups differ one from another.
Example: Where discriminant analysis is used
1. Those who buy our brand and those who buy competitors' brand.
2. Good salesman, poor salesman, medium salesman
3. Those who go to Food World to buy and those who buy in a Kirana shop.
4. Heavy user, medium user and light user of the product.
Suppose there is a comparison between the groups mentioned as above along with
demographic and socio-economic factors, then discriminant analysis can be used. One
way of doing this is to proceed and calculate the income, age, educational level, so that
the profile of each group could be determined. Comparing the two groups based on one
variable alone would be informative but it would not indicate the relative importance of
each variable in distinguishing the groups. This is because several variables within the
group will have some correlation which means that one variable is not independent of the
other.
If we are interested in segmenting the market using income and education, we would be
interested in the total effect of two variables in combinations, and not their effects
separately. Further, we would be interested in determining which of the variables are
more important or had a greater impact. To summarize, we can say, that Discriminant
Analysis can be used when we want to consider the variables simultaneously to take into
account their interrelationship.
Like regression, the value of dependent variable is calculated by using the data of
independent variable.
155
Z = b1x1+b2x+b3x3+..............
Research Methods for Z= Discriminant score
Management
b1= Discriminant weight for variable
x = Independent variable
As can be seen in the above, each independent variable is multiplied by its corresponding
weightage.
This results in a single composite discriminant score for each individual. By taking the
average of discriminant score of the individuals within a certain group, we create a
group mean. This is known as centroid. If the analysis involves two groups, there are
two centroids. This is very similar to multiple regression, except that different types of
variables are involved.
Application: A company manufacturing FMCG products introduces a sales contest
among its marketing executives to find out "How many distributors can be roped in to
handle the company's product". Assume that this contest runs for three months. Each
marketing executive is given target regarding number of new distributors and sales they
can generate during the period. This target is fixed and based on the past sales achieved
by them about which, the data is available in the company. It is also announced that
marketing executives who add 15 or more distributors will be given a Maruti omni-van
as prize. Those who generate between 5 and 10 distributors will be given a two-wheeler
as the prize. Those who generate less than 5 distributors will get nothing. Now assume
that 5 marketing executives won a Maruti van and 4 won a two-wheeler.
The company now wants to find out, "Which activities of the marketing executive made
the difference in terms of winning a prize and not winning the prize". One can proceed in
a number of ways. The company could compare those who won the Maruti van against
the others. Alternatively, the company might compare those who won, one of the two
prizes against those who won nothing. It might compare each group against each of the
other two.
Discriminant analysis will highlight the difference in activities performed by each group
members to get the prize. The activity might include:
1. More number of calls made to the distributors.
2. More personal visits to the distributors with advance appointments.
3. Use of better convincing skills.

Discriminant Analysis
1. What variable discriminates various groups as above; the number of groups could
be two or more. Dealing with more than two groups is called Multiple Discriminant
Analysis (M.D.A).
2. Can discriminating variables be chosen to forecast the group to which the brand/
person/place belong to?
3. Is it possible to estimate the size of different groups?

14.7 LET US SUM UP

The main purpose of Factor Analysis is to group large set of variable factors into fewer
factors. Each factor will account for one or more component. Each factor a combination
of many variables. There are two most commonly employed factor analysis procedures.
They are:
(1) Principle component analysis
156 (2) Common factor analysis
Cluster Analysis is a technique used for classifying objects into groups. This can be used Multivariate Analysis
to sort data (a number of people, companies, cities, brands or any other objects) into
homogeneous groups based on their characteristics.
Multi Dimension Scaling is used to study consumer attitudes, particularly with respect to
perceptions and preferences. These techniques help to identify the product attributes,
that are important to the customers, and to measure their relative importance.
This scaling is used to describe similarity and preference of brands. The respondents are
asked to indicate their perception, or the similarity between various objects (products,
brands, etc.) and preference among objects. This scaling is also called as perceptual
mapping.
In Discriminant Analysis, two or more groups are compared. In the final analysis, we
need to find out whether the groups differ one from another.

14.8 LESSON END ACTIVITY

A marketing research company collected the data and tabulated the frequency count
between age and watching movies.
Visited movies Under 40 More than 40 Total
Yes 42 71 113
No 51 65 116
Total 93 136 229
What conclusion can be drawn from the above observation?

14.9 KEYWORDS
Factor Analysis
Cluster Analysis
SPSS
MDS

14.10 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. Write short note on:
(a) Factor Analysis
(b) Cluster Analysis
2. Expand the term: SPSS, MDS
3. Discuss Applications of SPSS.

14.11 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E. "Marketing Research, a structure for decision making", Addison- Wesley
Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R. "Research Methodology- Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay. 157
UNIT-V
LESSON

15
INTERPRETATION

CONTENTS
After studying this chapter, you should be able to understand:
15.0 Aims and Objectives
15.1 Introduction
15.2 Meaning
15.3 Techniques of Interpretation
15.4 Interpretation of Regression Equation
15.5 Let us Sum up
15.6 Lesson-end Activity
15.7 Keywords
15.8 Questions for Discussion
15.9 Suggested Readings

15.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This lesson is intended to focus on the interpretation of collected data. After studying this
lesson you will be able to:
(i) define interpretation.
(ii) describe induction and deduction methods of data interpretation.
(iii) interpret regression equation.

15.1 INTRODUCTION
So far we have discussed theoretical aspects of research in previous lessons. But it is
very important to draw inferences from the data collected by the researcher. Interpretation
refers to the task of drawing inferences from the collected data. Interpretation is the tool
by which further research can be undertaken.

15.2 MEANING
Interpretation is not just the repetition of the data is the table, it should be the inferences,
insights, relationships and correlation between the variables.
Interpretation means bringing out the meaning of data. We can also say that interpretation
is to convert data into information. The essence of any research is to do interpretation
about the study. This requires a high degree of skill.
Research Methods for
Management 15.3 TECHNIQUES OF INTERPRETATION
There are two methods of drawing conclusions (1) induction (2) deduction.
In the induction method, one starts from observed data and then generalisation is done
which explains the relationship between objects observed.
On the other hand, deductive reasoning starts from some general law and is then applied
to a particular instance i.e., deduction comes from the general to a particular situation.
Example of Induction: All products manufactured by Sony are excellent. DVD player
model 2602 MX is made by Sony. Therefore, it must be excellent.
Example of Deduction: All products have to reach decline stage one day and become
obsolete. This radio is in decline mode. Therefore, it will become obsolete.
During the inductive phase, we reason from observation. During the deductive phase,
we reason towards the observation. Both logic and observation are essential for
interpretation.
Successful interpretation depends on how well the data is analysed. If data is not properly
analysed, the interpretation may go wrong. If analysis has to be corrected, then data
collection must be proper. Similarly, if the data collected is proper but analysed wrongly,
then too the interpretation or conclusion will be wrong. Sometimes, even with the proper
data and proper analysis, the data can still lead to wrong interpretation. Interpretation
depends upon the experience of the researcher and methods used by him for
interpretation.
Example: A detergent manufacturer is trying to decide which of the three sales promotion
methods (discount, contest, buy one get one free) would be most effective in increasing
the sales. Each sales promotion method is run at different times in different cities. The
sales obtained by the different sale promotion methods is as follows:
Sales Impact of Different Sale Promotion Methods
Sales Promotion Method Sales Associated with Sales Promotion
1 2,000
2 3,500
3 2,510
The results may lead us to the conclusion that the second sales promotion method was
the most effective in developing sales. This may be adopted nationally to promote the
product. But one cannot say that the same method of sales promotion will be effective in
each and every city under study.
Precautions:
(1) Keep the main objective of research in mind.
(2) Analysis of data should start from simpler and more fundamental aspects.
(3) It should not be confusing.
(4) The sample size should be adequate.
(5) Take care before generalising of the sample studied.
(6) Give due attention to significant questions.
(7) Do not miss the significance of some answers, because they are found from very
few respondents, such as dont know or cant say.

162
 Interpretation
Check Your Progress

XYZ company is into pharmaceuticals to produce a medicine 'A', which is a pain

reliever. A survey was conducted with doctors as sample and the following questions
were asked:
"Would you recommend product 'A' to your patients when they suffer from pain"?
Yes ______ No _______
An analysis of the above showed that 75% of doctors surveyed said 'Yes', the rest
said 'No'. From this survey, XYZ company made the following inference. "Three
out of four doctors have recommended product 'A' for their patients, who suffer
from pain".
1. Is the inference valid?
2. If not, how else will you confirm that three out of four doctors have
recommended this?

15.4 INTERPRETATION OF REGRESSION EQUATION

The multiple linear regression equation is given by

y = a + b1x1 + b 2 x 2
The bs are called partial regression coefficient and indicate the average change in y for
a unit change in x1 holding the other xs constant.
If b1 is 1.25, then it shows that y increases by 1.25 for every unit increase in x 1.

15.5 LET US SUM UP

In this lesson we have studied the meaning and techniques of interpretation of collected
data. Interpretation refers to the task of drawing inferences from the collected data.
There are two techniques of interpretation inductive and deductive. We have also studied
the interpretation of regression equation.

15.6 LESSON-END ACTIVITY

You have collected data on employees of a large organisation in a metro. You analyse
the data by the type of work, education level, whether the employee belongs to an urban
or rural area. The results are as below. How would you interpret them?
Annual Employee Turnover
Higher Education Lower Education
Salaried monthly Daily wage Salaried monthly Daily wage
Rural 6 14 18 18
Urban 10 12 19 20
*Turnover per 1,000 employees

15.7 KEYWORDS
Data interpretation
Induction
Deduction
Regression equation
Inferences 163
Research Methods for
Management 15.8 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. What do you understand by the term interpretation?
2. Discuss the techniques of interpretation.
3. Write a note on interpretation of regression equation.

15.9 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E., "Marketing Research, a structure for decision-making", Addison-
Wesley Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R., "Research Methodology- Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.

164
LESSON

16
REPORT WRITING

CONTENTS
16.0 Aims and Objectives
16.1 Introduction
16.2 Significance of Report Writing
16.3 Steps in Report Writing
16.4 Layout of Report
16.5 Types of Reports
16.5.1 Short report
16.5.2 Long report
16.5.3 Technical report
16.5.4 Non-technical report
16.5.5 Final report
16.5.6 Informal report
16.5.7 Government report
16.6 Executive Summary
16.7 Mechanics of Writing Reports
16.8 Precautions for Writing Report
16.9 Norms for Using Tables, Charts and Diagrams
16.10 Graphs
16.11 Norms for Using Index and Bibliography
16.12 Let us Sum up
16.13 Lesson-end Activity
16.14 Keywords
16.15 Questions for Discussion
16.16 Suggested Readings

16.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this lesson is to give guidance in writing a research report which is simply
the presentation of research findings to specific audience. After studying this lesson you
will be able to:
(i) know the requirement of report writing.
(ii) understand the format of written report.
(iii) describe various types of report writing.
(iv) use tables, charts and diagrams in report writing.
Research Methods for
Management 16.1 INTRODUCTION
The last step in the research process in the preparation and presentation of the research
report. The best of research efforts will be of little value unless the result can be
summarised and communicated to the management in a form that is both understandable
and useful. Preparation and presentation of the research report is the most important
part of the research process. If the report is confusing or poorly written, time and money
spent on collecting and analysing data will be wasted.

16.2 SIGNIFICANCE OF REPORT WRITING

1. If research results are unknown objective of research is not achieved, so reporting
is must.
2. Orally it is not possible to explain in detail, so reporting is helpful.
3. As a matter of evidence to the research report is necessary.

16.3 STEPS IN REPORT WRITING

Having decided on the type of report, the next step is report preparation. The following
is the format of a research report:
1. Title Page
2. Page Contents
3. Executive Summary
v Objectives
v Results
v Conclusions
v Recommendations
4. Body
v Introduction
v Methodology
v Results
v Limitations
5. Conclusions and Recommendations
6. Appendix
v Sampling plan
v Data collection forms
v Bibliography
(1) Title Page: Title Page should indicate the topic on which the report is prepared. It
should include the name of the person or agency who has prepared the report. The
date of the submission of the report is to be included in the report.
(2) Table of Contents: The table of contents will help the reader to know "what the
report contains". The table of contents should indicate the various parts or sections
of the report. It should also indicate the chapter headings along with the page
number.
166
 Table of Contents Report Writing

Section Description Page No.

I Background, Purpose of study 1-3
II Methodology 4-8
III Analysis and interpretations 9-10
IV Findings 11-12
V Recommendations 13
VI Conclusion 14
VII Appendix
a) Questionnaire 16-25
b) Exhibits 26-40
c) Bibliography 41

(3) Executive Summary: If your report is long and drawn out, the person to whom
you have prepared the report may not have the time to read it in detail. Apart from
this, an executive summary will help in highlighting major points. It is a condensed
version of the whole report. It should be written in one or two pages. Since top
executives read only the executive summary, it should be accurate and well-written.
An executive summary should help in decision-making.
An executive summary should have,
v Objectives of the research report
v Scope of the study
v Limitations
v Key results
v Conclusions
v Recommendations
(4) The Body: This section includes:
v Introduction
v Methodology
v Results
v Limitations
Introduction: The introduction must explain clearly the decision problem and
research objective. The background information should be provided on the product
and services provided by the organisation which is under study.
Methodology: How you have collected the data is the key in this section. For
example, Was primary data collected or secondary data used? Was a questionnaire
used? What was the sample size and sampling plan and method of analysis? Was
the design exploratory or conclusive?
Results: What was the final result of the study?
Limitations: Every report will have some shortcoming. The limitations may be of
time, geographical area, the methodology adopted, correctness of the responses,
etc.
(5) Conclusion and Recommendation:
v What was the conclusion drawn from the study?
v Based on the study, what recommendation do you make?
167
Research Methods for (6) Appendix: The purpose of an appendix is to provide a place for material which is
Management
not absolutely essential to the body of the report. The appendix will contain copies
of data collection forms called questionnaires, details of the annual report of the
company, details of graphs/charts, photographs, CDs, interviewers instructions.
v Bibliography: If portions of your report are based on secondary data, use a
bibliography section to list the publications or sources that you have consulted.
The bibliography should include, title of the book, name of the journal in case
of article, volume number, page number, edition etc.

16.4 LAYOUT OF REPORT

Chapter no. Title of the chapter Page no.

Declaration
Certificates
Acknowledgement
Executive summary
1 Introduction to the project
Research design and methodology
2
Theoretical perspective of the study
3 Company and industry profile
Data analysis and interpretation
4
Summary of findings and suggestions
5 Bibliography

6 Appendix

16.5 TYPES OF REPORTS

(A) Reports can be classified based on the time-interval such as:
(1) Daily
(2) Weekly
(3) Monthly
(4) Quarterly
(5) Yearly
(B) Type of reports:
(1) Short report
(2) Long report
(3) Technical report
(4) Non-technical report
(5) Final report
(6) Informal report
(7) Government report

16.5.1 Short report

Short reports are produced when the problem is very well defined and if the scope is
limited. E.g. Monthly sales report. It will run into about five pages. It consists of report
about the progress made with respect to a particular product in a clearly specified
168 geographical locations.
16.5.2 Long report Report Writing

This could be both a technical report as well as non-technical report. This will present
the outcome of the research in detail.

16.5.3 Technical report

This will include the sources of data, research procedure, sample design, tools used for
gathering data, data analysis methods used, appendix, conclusion and detailed
recommendations with respect to specific findings. If any journal, paper or periodical is
referred, such references must be given for the benefit of reader.

16.5.4 Non-technical report

This report is meant for those who are not technically qualified. E.g. Chief of the finance
department. He may be interested in financial implications only, such as margins, volumes
etc. He may not be interested in the methodology.

16.5.5 Final report

Example: The report prepared by the marketing manager to be submitted to the Vice-
President (marketing) on quarterly performance, reports on test marketing.

16.5.6 Informal report

The report prepared by the supervisor by way of filling the shift log book, to be used by
his colleagues.

16.5.7 Government report

These may be prepared by state governments or the central government on a given issue.
Example: Programme announced for rural employment strategy as a part of five-year
plan or report on children's education etc.

Check Your Progress

1. What are the different steps in report writing?

2. Draft a layout of any technical report

16.6 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Following are covered in executive summary:
1. Statement of the problem
2. Important objectives
3. Brief methodology
4. Major findings
5. Important recommendations

16.7 MECHANICS OF WRITING REPORTS

1. size and physical design
2. procedure 169
Research Methods for 3. layout
Management
4. treatment of quotations
5. the foot notes
6. documentation style
7. punctuation and abbreviations in foot notes

16.8 PRECAUTIONS FOR WRITING REPORT

1. A4 bond paper to be used for better quality.
2. dull printing should be avoided.
3. technical jargons should be avoided.
4. tables, graphs to be used in order to quick understanding by the readers.
5. reports should be free from grammatical mistakes.
6. bibliography and index should be written systematically.
7. report must be attractive in appearance.
8. findings of the report should attempt to solve the problem.

16.9 NORMS FOR USING TABLES, CHARTS AND

DIAGRAMS

Tables
General Rules
(i) The table should be simple and compact which is not overloaded with details.
(ii) Tabulation should be in accordance with the objective of investigation.
(iii) The unit of measurements must always be indicated in the table.
(iv) The captions and stubs must be arranged in a systematic manner so that it is easy
to grasp the table.
(v) A table should be complete and self explanatory.
(vi) As far as possible the interpretative figures like totals, ratios and percentages must
also be provided in a table.
(vii) The entries in a table should be accurate.
(viii) Table should be attractive to draw the attention of readers.

16.10 GRAPHS
i. Every graph must have a suitable title written at its top. This title should indicate
the facts presented by the graph in comprehensive and unambiguous manner.
ii. By convention, the independent variable is normally measured along X-axis and
the dependent variable on Y-axis. The sale on Y-axis must always start from zero.
If the fluctuations are small as compared to the size of the variable, there is no
need to show the entire vertical axis from origin. This can be done by showing a
gap in the vertical axis and drawing a horizontal line from it. This line is often
termed as a false base line.
iii. The choice of a scale of measurement should be such that the whole data can be
accommodated in the available space and all of its important fluctuations are clearly
170 depicted.
iv. Proportional changes in the values of the variables can be shown by drawing a Report Writing
ratio or logarithmic scale.
v. A graph must not be overcrowded with curves.
vi. An index should always be given to show the scales and the interpretation of
different curves.
vii. The source of data should be mentioned as a footnote.

16.11 NORMS FOR USING INDEX AND BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bibliography, the last section of the report comes after appendices. Appendices contains
questionnaires and other relevant material of the study. The bibliography contains the
source of every reference used and any other relevant work that has been consulted. It
imparts an authenticity regarding the source of data to the reader.
Bibliography are of different types viz., bibliography of works cited; this contains only
the items referred in the text. A selected bibliography lists the items which the author
thinks are of primary interest to the reader. An annotated bibliography gives brief description
of each item. The method of representing bibliography is explained below.
Books
Name of the author, title of the book (underlined), publisher's detail, year of publishing,
page number.
l Single Volume Works. Dube, S. C. "India's Changing Villages", Routledge and
Kegan Paul Ltd., 1958, p. 76.
Chapter in an edited book
l Warwick, Donald P., "Comparative Research Methods" in Balmer, Martin and
Donald Warwick (eds) 1983, pp. 315-30.
Periodicals Journal
l Dawan Radile (2005), "They Survived Business World" (India), May 98, pp. 29-
36.
Newspaper, Articles
l Kumar Naresh, "Exploring Divestment" The Economic Times (Bangalore), August
7, 1999, p. 14.
Website
l www.infocom.in.com
For citing Seminar paper
l Krishna Murthy, P., "Towards Excellence in Management" (Paper presented at
a Seminar in XYZ College Bangalore, July 2000).

16.12 LET US SUM UP

The most important aspect to be kept in mind while developing research report, is the
communication with the audience. Report should be able to draw the interest of the
readers. Therefore, report should be reader centric. Other aspect to be considered while
writing report are accuracy and clarity.
Written report may be classified based on whether the report is a short report or a long
report. It can also be classified based on technical report or non technical report. Written
report should contain title page, contents, executive summary. Body conclusions and
appendix. The last part is bibliography. 171
Research Methods for
Management 16.13 LESSON-END ACTIVITY
In a company named XYZ, there have been increasing number of strikes. You have to
found various reasons of strikes. Answer the following questions:
(i) what information need to be collected
(ii) Write a few linesstarting and endingof your report

16.14 KEYWORDS
Written report
Informal report
Technical report
Appendix
Bibliography
Body page content
Executive summary

16.15 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What is meant by "consider the audience" when writing a research report?
2. What are the various criteria used for classification of written report?
3. What are the essential contents of the following parts of research report?
a. Table of contents
b. Title page
c. Executive summary
d. Introduction
e. Conclusion
f. Appendix

16.16 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E., "Marketing Research, a structure for decision making", Addison-
Wesley Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R., "Research Methodology - Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.

172
LESSON

17
ORAL PRESENTATION

CONTENTS
17.0 Aims and Objectives
17.1 Introduction
17.2 Nature of an Oral Presentation
17.2.1 Opening
17.2.2 Finding/Conclusion
17.2.3 Recommendation
17.2.4 Method of Presentation
17.3 Guidelines
17.4 Checklist for Oral Presentation
17.5 Let us Sum up
17.6 Lesson-end Activity
17.7 Keywords
17.8 Questions for Discussion
17.9 Suggested Readings

17.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This lesson is intended to give guidance for oral presentation of a research report. After
studying this lesson you will be able to:
(i) know the broad classification of an oral presentation.
(ii) know the guidelines for preparing oral report.
(iii) understand the requirement of oral presentation of research report.

17.1 INTRODUCTION
The oral report is required when the researchers are asked to make an oral presentation.
Making an oral presentation is somewhat difficult compared to the written report. In an
oral presentation, communication plays a big role. A lot of preparation is required for oral
presentation. The broad classification of an oral present has been discussed below.

17.2 NATURE OF AN ORAL PRESENATION

17.2.1 Opening
A brief statement can be made on the nature of discussion that will follow. The opening
statement should explain the nature of the project, how it came about and what was
attempted.
Research Methods for 17.2.2 Finding/Conclusion
Management
Each conclusion may be stated backed up by findings.
17.2.3 Recommendation
Each recommendation must have the support of conclusion. At the end of the presentation,
question-answer session should follow from the audience.
17.2.4 Method of Presentation
Visuals, if need to be exhibited, can be made use of. The use of tabular form for statistical
information would help the audience.
(a) What type of presentation is a root question? Is it read from a manuscript or
memorised or delivered ex-tempo. Memorisation is not recommended, since there
could be a slip during presentation. Secondly, it produces speaker-centric approach.
Even reading from the manuscript is not recommended, because it becomes
monotonous, dull and lifeless. The best way to deliver in ex-tempo, is to make main
points notes, so that the same can be expanded. Logical sequences should be
followed.
Points to remember in oral presentation:
(1) Language used must be simple and understandable.
(2) Time Management should be adhered.
(3) Use of charts, graph etc. will enhance understanding by the audience.
(4) Vital data such as figures may be printed and circulated to the audience so
that their ability to comprehend increases, since they can refer to it when the
presentation is going on.
(5) The presenter should know his target audience well in advance to prepare
tailor- made presentation.
(6) The presenter should know the purpose of report such as "Is it for making a
decision", "Is it for the sake of information" etc.

17.3 GUIDELINES

Employ visual aids

Use transparency Hold interest of audience Help audience to

slides grasp the information

Avoid reading the

report

Mention high Audience will Interaction is blocked

points loose interest by reading

174
 Oral Presentation
KYA
Know your audience

Suit your report to Executives at various Presentation should

audience levels need different satisfy especially the
information main audience

Plan and deliver

Make the presentation Follow time Main points to be

effective management covered within
the allotted time

17.4 CHECKLIST FOR ORAL PRESENTATION

Many companies require oral presentation of research reports. Prior to the presentation
follow this checklist:
1. Check all equipment (e.g., light, microphones, projectors etc.) thoroughly before
the presentation.
2. Have a contingency plan for equipment failure.
3. Analyze your audience. How will they react to the research findings?
4. Practice the presentation several times. If possible, have someone comment on
how to improve its effectiveness.
5. Start the presentation with an overview - tell the audience what you are going to
tell them.
6. Face the audience directly at all times.
7. Talk to the audience or decision makers, rather than read from a script or a projection
screen.
8. Use visual aids effectively - charts and tables should be simple and easy to read.
9. Avoid distracting mannerisms while speaking.
10. Remember to ask the audience if they have any questions after your report is
concluded.

17.5 LET US SUM UP

Making an oral presentation is somewhat difficult compared to the written report because
the reporter has to interact directly with the audience. We have discussed in this lesson
the various facets of oral presentation, classification and guidelines for preparing oral
presentation. In the end we have provided checklist to be followed before presentation.

17.6 LESSON-END ACTIVITY

Do you agree that making an oral presentation is somewhat difficult compared to the
175
written report? Give reasons.
Research Methods for
Management 17.7 KEYWORDS
Opening Statement
Concluding Statement
Oral report
Presentation

17.8 QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1. What are the criterion for an oral report? Explain.
2. On what criteria, oral report is evaluated? Suggest a suitable format.
3. Why are visual aids used in oral presentation?
4. Oral presentation requires the researcher to be good public speaker. Explain.

17.9 SUGGESTED READINGS

S. N. Murthy and U. Bhojanna, Business Research Methods, Excel Books, 2007.
Boyd, Westfall, and Stasch, "Marketing Research Text and Cases", All India Traveller
Bookseller, New Delhi.
Brown, F.E., "Marketing Research, a structure for decision-making", Addison-
Wesley Publishing Company.
Kothari, C.R., "Research Methodology- Methods and Techniques", Wiley Eastern
Ltd.
Stockton and Clark, "Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics", D.B.
Taraporevala Sons and Co. Private Limited, Bombay.

176
 GLOSSARY
A
Attribute method: It is a method in which attributes are selected and given to respondent based
on which, he is asked to indicate similarities between objects.
Accuracy: Criterion used to evaluate a research report.
Area Sampling: It is a type of cluster sampling. Clusters are formed based on Geographical
locations.
ANOVA: It is a statistical technique employed to determine, if samples came from the population
with equal means.
Applied Research: Research undertaken to solve specific real life problems.

B
Bivariate Analysis: It is a Multi variate analysis using two variables.
Bidder: One who bids ( say a contract or tender ).
Bipolar adjectives: It is a scale that has adjective at each end, that is antonym.
Balanced scale: A scale with same number of favourable and unfavourable responses.
Bivariate statistics: Statistics used when a researcher investigates 2 variables at a time.

C
Coding: Technical procedure by which data is categorised. It specifies the categories into which
responses are to be placed.
Cluster Sampling: Cluster selected and all the items in the cluster are studied.
Census: Involves all units of the population.
Chi square Test: A non parametric test. This test will tell whether there is any significant relationship
between two variables.
Cartoon test: It is a projective technique. In this method cartoon characters are the 3rd party.
C.R.M: Customer relations management .
Client: A prospective customer.
Causal research: It is a research in which cause and effect relationship is determined.
Consumer purchase data: A type of syndicated data.
Cluster Analysis: A technique for segmenting E.g. - Customers, products etc.
Causal research: A research designed to determine cause and effect relationship.
Construct validity: Trait, the instrument is in fact measuring. It is the construct, measured by the
scale.
Cox and Stuart test: A test used to find out presence of trends.
Content validity: Represents how appropriate is a measuring instrument for getting the desired
information.
Concomitant variation: It is the extent to which cause and effect vary together.
C.M.P: Consumer Mail Panel.
Convenience sample: Sample selected by researcher based on his convenience.
Cross sectional study: Investigation involving a sample of element selected from the population
of interest at a single point of time.
Con Joint Analysis: It is concerned with the measurement of the Joint effect of 2 or more attribute
that is important from the customer's view point.
Research Methods for Cross tabulation: It is method of counting the number of cases which fall into each of the
Management
categories when the categories are based on 2 or more variables considered simultaneously.
Correlation: A statistical technique which explains the extent to which the 2 variables are
related.
Close ended question : A type of question for which limited options are indicated.
Conclusive research : A kind of research where specific action is taken to solve the problem.

D
Depth interview: It is an unstructured personal interview.
Descriptive research: This is a research design method. Emphasis is on determining the frequency
with which, something occurs.
Dichotomous question: Question with just fixed alternatives.
Deliberate sampling : It is a non probability sampling. Also known as purposive sampling.
Dependent variable : This is a variable which is under study.
Delphi technique: It is a group judgement. Each member make an individual judgement and then
each member is given opportunity to revise his or her judgement after seeing others.
Disguised: A form in which the sample are not aware that they are under study.
Degree of freedom: Number of observations that can vary freely under certain conditions.
(Double barrled Question): Two questions are clubbed into one.
Dispersion: It is the spread of the data in a distribution.

E
Ethics: Moral standards or code of conduct.
Editing: Inspection and correction of questionnaire.
Experiment: Scientific investigation in which the researcher studies dependent variable by altering
independent variable.
Exploratory research: This research is used to generate ideas when the hypothesis is vague.
Extraneous variable: These variables affect the response of test units. Also called as confounding
variable.
External validity: The degree to which the results of an experiment can be generalised beyond
the experimental situation to other population.
External data: Data that originate outside the organisation for which research is being done.
Experimental Mortality: An extraneous factor affecting experiment.
Ex post facto research: Study of current state and factors causing it.

F
Factor Analysis: It is a technique used to study interrelationship among many variables.
Factorial design: This is an experimental design when the effect of 2 or more variables are being
studied simultaneously.
Field edit: Preliminary edit conducted by field supervisor. This is done to correct glaring omissions.
F-Statistics: Measure of the variance between groups divided by the variance within group.
Focus group: Group discussion focused on a series of topics. The group is headed by a moderator.
Field study: Involves in-depth study of the problem.
Frequency: Number of times target audience is exposed to media vehicle during a specific period.

178 Field survey: Survey conducted in the market place such as shopping mall,
 Glossary
H
History: Specific events external to an experiment but occurring at the same time that may affect
the results.
Hypothesis: A presumption which a researcher wants to verify.
Horse racing alternative: It refers to a product testing method, where several products of the
same company are put to test against one another.
Horizontal Marketing: Two entities with distinctive strength coming together to achieve a
common goal.

I
Instrumentation effect: Effect of, change in the measuring instrument, on the experimental
results.
Internal validity: Ability of an experiment to show relationship unambiguously.
Interval scale: Scale, where the units have the same width throughout the scale.
Interval estimate: It is a range within which a parameter is expected to lie.
Internal data: Data which originates within the organisation.
Inquiry test: A test designed to measure effectiveness of an advertisement.
Independent variable: These are variables whose effects researcher wishes to examine.

J
Judgement sampling: This is a non probability sampling.

K
Kolmogorov-smirnov test: This is a test to find whether 2 independent samples are drawn from
the same population or not.
Kruskal-Wallis test: Rank sum test that analyses whether 2 or more independent samples are
drawn from identical population or from 2 or more population with the same median. This is also
called as H test.

L
Latin square design: It is an experimental design.
Likert scale: Scale in which respondent indicates agreement or disagreement.
Leading / Loading Question: A question which gives clue to the respondent.
Longitudinal study: This involves fixed samples of elements that is measured repeatedly over a
period of time.
Least square method: A technique used to find a regression line.

M
Mail Questionnaire: Questionnaire administered by mail.
Median / Mean: A measure of central tendency.
Maturation: This occurs during research study, changes that takes information sought by the
researcher and the information generated.
Multi dimension sealing : Data plotted in a multi dimensional space.
Mortalities: Refers to, respondents dropping out of experiment.
Multivariate Analysis: Studying 2 or more variables.
Mode: Central value of the item or most frequently occurring item.
179
Research Methods for Mall intercept: This is a method of data collection in which the shoppers are the sampling
Management
elements.
Management problem: It is a problem which asks the question "what needs to be done"?.
Moderator: One who facilitates conducting of focus group discussion.
Mann whitney "U" test: Non parametric test.
Multistage sampling: This is a method in which sampling is done in several stages.
N
Nominal scale: It is a scale, where numbers are assigned to objects solely for identification
purposes.
Nonparametric test: Statistical tests applicable when the data follows nominal, ordinal
measurement. These are distribution free tests.
Non probability sample: Where every element in the universe does not have equal chance of
getting included.
Non attribute method: A method in which respondents choose the criteria to compare the objects
instead of researcher specifying it.
Non response error: This is a non sampling error, in which respondent does not answer.
O
Omni Bus panel: Panel in which the information collected from participated panel members varies
from study to study.
Ordinal scale: A measurement that assigns only order, used for ranking.
Observation error: It is a non sampling error.
Open ended question: A question to which there are no fixed answers. Respondent can answer in
his own words.
Oral report: A report prepared for oral presentation.
P
Paired comparison: This is a test conducted to find preferences. The respondent is required to
take 2 objects at a time.
Parametric test: These tests are used when variables are measured on interval scale.
Perceptual Map: A spatial representation of the perceived relationship among objects. These
objects could be products or brands.
Panel sampling: Fixed sample of respondents, who are used to collect data.
Probability sampling: A sampling method where there is equal chance for every element getting
included.
Projective technique: Indirect method of questioning. A technique of qualitative research.
Pretesting: A practice of administering a questionnaire to a small group of respondents.
Predictive validity: This is established by correlating the measurement score with the future
criterion.
Precise: Being accurate.
Q
Qualitative research: Research designed mainly for exploratory purposes.

180 Quota sampling: It is a sampling method, where each sub group is represented.
 Glossary
R
Ratio scale: This scale has an absolute zero and hence it allows comparison of absolute
magnitudes.
Rank sum test: This is a test to find out whether independent samples are drawn from the same
population.
Random sampling: A sampling method where every element has equal probability of getting
selected.
Regression analysis: Statistical technique used to derive an equation.
Recording Error: Error that occurs due to improper recording.
Reliability: An error component of measurement instrument.
Retail Store Audit: It is data collected by research firms whose employees visit sample of stores
at fixed interval for checking the stock.
Research design: A plan which indicate the methods and procedures to be used for collecting the
data and data Analysis.
Recession: A period when demand for goods slows down.
Research Methodology: It is a method to solve research problem systematically.
S
Sample: Selecting a subset.
Sampling Frame: It is the list of population, from where sample is selected.
Selection Bias: This occurs when there is no way to certify.
Secondary data: Data already collected and published.
Semantic differential: A scale to make attitude measurement. Bipolar adjectives are used at the 2
extreme ends of the scale.
Sentence completion test: It is a projective technique where in the respondents are required to
complete a sentence.
Sampling error: Difference between true mean value of the population and the observed mean
value.
Snow ball sampling: It is a type of non probability sampling, based on referrals.
Stratified Random Sampling: It is a probability sampling procedure. Population is divided into
strata and sample is selected at random from each strata.
Split ballot techniques: This is a method of questioning the respondent in which question split
into two halves.
Sentence completion test: It is a non structured, disguised form of questioning.
Syndicated data: Secondary data gathered by agencies sold to clients.
Shopping Mall intercept sampling: This is a non probability sampling.
Systematic sampling: It is a probability sampling where sampling interval remains constant.
T
TAT (Thematic apperception test): It is a non structured disguised form of questioning.
Respondents may be shown a picture and asked questions about it.
Thurstone scale: It is an attitude measurement scale with 11 statements, respondents are asked to
respond to these statements.
True panel: It is a panel which participates in longitudinal study.
Type-I Error: This error occurs when a true null hypothesis is rejected.
Type-II Error: This error occurs when a false null hypothesis is accepted.
181
Research Methods for T - Test: It is a parametric test used when the sample size is less than 30.
Management
U
Univariate: Problem of analyzing a single variable.
Unbalanced scale: Scale with uneven number of favorable and unfavorable choices. Therefore,
this type pf scale will be skewed in one direction.
Unique selling proposition (USP): It refers to a product or a service attribute that is distinctive to
a particular brand.
Unstructured observation: In this method, the observer judges, whether it is worthwhile recording
an observation or not.
Undisguised observation: In this case, the purpose for which observation is made known to
respondent.

V
Validity: This indicates how much of the scores measured reflects the actual.
Variable: Any thing that may assume different numerical value.

W
Word association test: This is a test in qualitative research.

Z
Z-test: A univariate hypothesis test using the standardized normal distribution.

182