Introduction
The applied research and the traditional academic research methods derive their processes and procedures from the generalized definition of research. Research is the scientific process through which solutions to problems are derived from statistical inferences (Salkind, 2006). The notion of finding a solution to the current problem is the foundation of any scientific inquiry. In applied research, the broad problems are narrowed to specific questions.
In essence, applied research is used to find solutions to realistic questions (Salkind, 2006). For instance, a firm may want to determine the level of performance of their products concerning certain specifications in the market. In the scenario, applied research is utilized to provide solutions to the specific question. Applied research utilizes a systematic procedure to answer the specific question. Whether applied research or pure research methods, the problem definition and solution forms the center stage.
Steps in the Applied Research method
All research methods follow sequential steps to find solutions or answers to the study problems. The fact that the research process follows steps does not mean that every step is followed strictly. The process is dynamic and subject to change as the study advances (Salkind, 2006). In applied research, the first step is the problem definition or identifying the research question. Once the research question has been defined, the research proposal is written, which is then followed by developing the study design. The step is followed by data collection. The data collection step is followed consecutively by data analysis and selection of procedures.
The final step in the applied research is the writing up of the research report. As indicated the steps outlined are not standard. For instance, the steps to be followed in business may vary with the sequences in the social science inquiry (Babbie, 2004).
The Discussion of the Steps in the Research Process
The Definition of the Research Problem or Question
This step is critical in identifying the problem. In applied research, the specificity and clarity of the research question or problem are significant at this stage. The reason is that the research method tends to find a solution to the specific research question or problems. Besides, identifying the research problem is vital in making decisions about various alternatives that may be available (Salkind, 2006).
Identifying the specific question to be answered stems from examining the broader problems that need to be solved. Narrowing the broader problem to specific questions is critical in finding solutions to the problems. The hypotheses are drawn from the specific research questions, which are then tested quantitatively. The cost analysis of the research project is also conducted at this stage. The value assessment is the determination of the research costs. Under the circumstances that the project cost exceeds the value of the research, the project should be discontinued (Davis, 2006).
Writing the Research Proposal
The research proposal provides an explanation of the study question and the course of action by the researcher (Babbie, 2004). The research proposal explains the research expectation, particularly to the financiers of the project. For instance, in a research project that tends to study the effectiveness of new programs on the employee’s performance, the proposal on the concerned topic and how the topic would be addressed is written to the concerned authorities (Davis, 2006).
In particular, the proposal contains the resultant-specific information after the research process. Using the specific question in the example, the proposal would indicate that the research would show the degree of employees’ satisfaction with the introduced programs and the level of the firm’s performance. Most importantly, the proposal act as a guide to the research, particularly in designing data collection and analysis procedures to address the specific question (Davis, 2006).
Research Design
Designing research involves deciding on what type of methodology to be applied as well as establishing systematic procedures of the study process. The non-experimental method is utilized primarily in most investigations including applied research. The non-experimental method is characterized by static variability. In other words, the study is conducted on the existing situations as well as the cause and effects. The results, as well as findings, are reported on the relationships between the variables (Babbie, 2004). The research design stage is critical particularly in determining the direction of the study and the control measures to be applied during the study. The control measures involve determining the sample size, data collection as well as analytical methods.
Data Collection
The data collection step is the actual gathering of information on the concerned topic. In fact, at this step, the researchers have to decide which method to use while gathering information that would address the specific research question (Babbie, 2004). Normally, the researchers can either utilize primary or secondary data. The primary data are collected through surveys and interview methods while the secondary data are gathered through literary reviews.
Data Analysis
The data analysis step involves transforming the gathered data into useful information. In most cases, the data analysis process determines the correlation between the variables. In particular, from the data analysis, the research question is answered or the solution of the problem is found depending on the drawn conclusions (Salkind, 2006). The process of data analysis involves quantifying the collected information and testing the hypotheses through the application of advanced statistical techniques.
Research Report
A research report is the last step in the applied research procedures. The main aim of the research report is to present the conclusions drawn from the study results. The research report contains the findings of the research, the problems encountered during the study process, the general research procedures, and the recommendations considered significant and consequential by the researchers. In most cases, organizations utilize the research findings and recommendations to design and implement policies (Davis, 2006).
The Importance of the Steps in the Research Project
Each of these steps remains critical to any research project to be undertaken. For instance, the determination of the research problem narrows the predicaments into a definite question, which can be tackled through the study procedures. In addition, at this stage, the costs of the research are determined. Further, the proposal act as a framework that guides the study. The research design stage is important to the project particularly in determining the direction of the study and the control measures to be applied. Data collection and analysis determine the correlation between the study variables while the report provides recommendations and conclusions depending on the findings of the investigation.
Conclusion
Applied research involves finding solutions to specific questions. In essence, applied research is used to find solutions to practical questions. Like all other research methods, the applied research process undergoes a series of steps ranging from designing the research problems to writing the final report of the study. Even though the steps may overlap in terms of underlying actions, they remain decisive to the process of investigation.
References
Babbie, E. R. (2004). The practice of social research. Belmont, CA: Thomson/Wadswoth.
Davis, D. (2006). Business research for decision-making. Boston, Massachusetts: South-Western College Publishing.
Salkind, N. J. (2006). Exploring research. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.