Title: The problem analysis for empirical studies

Authors: Edward Groenland

Addresses: Center for Marketing and Supply Chain Management, Nyenrode Busines Universiteit, P.O. Box 130, 3620 AC Breukelen, The Netherlands

Abstract: This article proposes a systematic methodology for the development of a problem analysis for cross-sectional, empirical research. This methodology is referred to as the 'Annabel approach'. It is suitable both for academic studies and applied (business) studies. In addition it can be used for both qualitative and quantitative studies. It is argued that the Annabel approach has certain advantages as compared to general approaches to the problem analysis. These include the inherent logic of the problem analysis design, and the inter-dependencies of its components, making it possible to carry out a number of formal consistency checks along the process of creating the problem analysis. Consequently, it is contended that the use of this methodology, being a general methodology for designing and executing methodologically sound and scientifically solid research, may result in higher quality problem analyses, while being more efficient in the creation process.

Keywords: problem analysis; research methodology; qualitative research; quantitative research; academic research; applied research; applied business studies; cross-sectional research; empirical research; Annabel approach.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBG.2014.060211

International Journal of Business and Globalisation, 2014 Vol.12 No.3, pp.249 - 263

Published online: 16 Jun 2014 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article