Chapter 9 Understanding the Report Process and Research Methods

1. Chapter 9Understanding the Report Process and Research Methods Business Communication, 14e Lehman and DuFrene

2. Chapter 9 The Formal-Informal Report Continuum

3. Chapter 9 The Problem Solving Process I. Recognize and define the problem II. Select a method of solution A. Library research B. Normative survey C. Observational analysis D. Experimentation III. Gather and analyze the findings IV. Arrive at an answer (conclusion)

4. Chapter 9 Clear Problem Identification Aids in Targeting Research

5. Chapter 9 Five Questions for Limiting the Problem • What is it that I wish to find out? • Why is the information needed? • When must the report be completed? • Where is the study limited to? • Who will read and use the information?

6. Chapter 9 Limitations to Internet Research • Information is not always accurate, current, or complete • Information may be shared illegally • Information may not be subjected to a rigorous review process that typically takes place with printed sources

7. Chapter 9 Rules for Using the Internet Effectively • Choose your search engine appropriately • Structure searches from broad to specific using Boolean logic • Use quotation marks when literal topics are desired • Look for web pages with hyperlinksto other web sites • Be adaptable to various accessformats

8. Chapter 9 Reasons for Accurate, Complete Documentation • Gives credit where credit is due (highly ethical conduct) • Protects writers against charges of plagiarism • Supports statements and thus increases credibility • Aids researchers in pursuing similar research

9. Chapter 9 (Slide 1 of 2) Guidelines for Designing Effective Questionnaires • Arrange items in a logical sequence • Ask for facts that can be recalled readily • Write clear, specific questions • Brief, easy-to-follow directions • Words with precise meanings • Short items related to one idea • No “skip-and-jump” instructions

10. Chapter 9 (Slide 2 of 2) Guidelines for Designing Effective Questionnaires (cont.) • Create an appealing format that is easy-to-answer and tabulate • Do not force respondents to choose an answer that does not apply to them • Provide all possible answers • Add “undecided” or “other” category • Avoid leading questions • Pilot test the questionnaire and revise based on feedback

11. Chapter 9 Common Errors in Data Collection • Using samples that are too small • Using samples that are not representative • Using poorly constructed data-gathering instruments • Using information that comes from biased sources • Failing to gather enough information • Gathering too much information and using all of it regardless of relevance

12. Chapter 9 Common Errors in Data Interpretation • Trying to make results conform to prediction or desire • Hoping for spectacular results • Attempting to compare when commonality is absent • Assuming a cause-and-effect relationship when one does not exist • Failing to consider important factors • Basing a conclusion on lack of evidence • Assuming constancy of behavior