The document discusses the purpose and structure of a research proposal. A research proposal seeks to present the research question and its importance, discuss related past work, and suggest the necessary data. It allows a researcher to plan their project and serves as a guide. A proposal typically includes modules like an executive summary, literature review, research design, and budget. Proposals can vary in complexity from exploratory studies to large-scale professional studies costing millions. The appendices may include a glossary, sample instruments, and other supporting materials. The proposal must be well-written, organized, meet sponsor guidelines, and clearly explain the technical details.

1. Part One
INTRODUCTION TO
BUSINESS RESEARCH
4-1

2. Chapter Four
THE RESEARCH PROPOSAL
4-2

3. Purpose of the Research Proposal
• To present the question to be researched
and its importance
• To discuss the research efforts of others
who have worked on related questions
• To suggest the data necessary for solving
the question
4-3

4. The Research Sponsor
All research has a sponsor in one form or
another:
• In a corporate setting, management
sponsors research
• In an academic environment, the student is
responsible to the class instructor
4-4

5. What are the Benefits of the Proposal to a
Researcher?
• Allows the researcher to plan and review
the project’s steps
• Serves as a guide throughout the
investigation
• Forces time and budget estimates
4-5

6. Types of Research Proposals
• Internal
• External
4-6

7. Proposal Complexity
3 levels of complexity:
• The exploratory study is used for the most
simple proposals
• The small-scale study is more complex and
common in business
• The large-scale professional study is the
most complex, costing millions of dollars
4-7

8. How to Structure the Research Proposal?
• Create proposal modules
• Put together various modules to tailor your
proposal to the intended audience
4-8

9. Modules in a Research Proposal
• Executive Summary • Qualifications of
• Problem Statement Researcher
• Research Objectives • Budget
• Literature Review • Schedule
• Importance of the Study • Facilities and Special
• Research Design Resources
• Data Analysis • Project Management
• Nature and Form of Results • Bibliography
• Appendices
4-9

10. What to include in the Appendices?
• A glossary of concepts, constructs, and
definitions
• Samples of the measurement instrument
• Other materials that reinforce the body of
the proposal
4-10

11. Evaluating the Research Proposal
• Proposal must be neatly written in
appropriate writing style
• Major topics should be easily found and
logically organized
• Proposal must meet specific guidelines set
by the sponsor
• Technical writing style must be clearly
understood and explained
4-11