The purpose of this is to build and take up mathematical models. The method of measurement is core to quantitative research as it provides basic connection between mathematical expression and empirical observation of quantitative dealings.
Quantitative research is conducted based on generation of models, hypotheses and theories followed by development of instruments and methods for measurement. Collection of data, modeling, and analysis of data follows succeeded by evaluation of the results. Statistics is used to categorize results. Quantitative analysis seeks to understand the meaning of the figures presented by statistical analysis, the graphs and charts.
While undertaking quantitative research, the researcher’s ethical issues are needed to be taken in consideration such as anonymity and confidentiality and an appropriate method for data collection, such as interviews and questionnaires, etc. Another factor that is to be considered is sampling method that is to be used and how is that best suited to answer the questions of market research. Also, market data collected for research should be accurate and this is possible only if method selected is correct. This would not be wrong to say that research study is said to be good if it’s free from all biases, which means that information and data collected from the market research study should not be contrasting in any logical way. Bias in any study may be removed through better use of random sampling.
Some of the major guidelines for an appropriate research to be conducted are that the questions of research should be subdivided in two broad categories and each should include a descriptive research in regard to what and why the same exist in society.
Research involves recognition of observation units, variables that measures specific characteristics. Classification of collected variables as dependent and independent variables helps in answering the questions in regard to research. The market research process involves a number of steps that include research questions, research design, literature review, data collection, analyzing data, interpreting data and then answering the questions.
A brief description in regard to the process of quantitative research is as follows:
- Topic Selection: Identification of the topic for research is the first step. It is the basis around which the complete process of research evolves. This involves designing of questions for research.
- Reviewing the literature: Next is to search the theories which have been already developed in past based on the research topics selected. This includes formulation of the question to be answered.
- Design Researching: This includes the appropriate way of structuring the research to answer the question and determining the data to be analyzed and collected.
- Methods of data collection: There are various methods through which data can be collected. Such as: Interviews, questionnaires, analyzing documents, sampling, ethical issues, data analysis
Thus qualitative research enables one to share the views of the individuals in regard to the selected topic and makes the outcome of research self explanatory. On the obverse side statistics derived from quantitative research can be misleading since it is based on sampling the collected data which may not always be based on truths.
