Business Research Methods

The Second Edition of Business Research Methods provides essential guidance on the practice of business research and how to carry out a small-scale research project or dissertation for the first time.

It offers an encyclopedic introduction to the core concepts, methods, and values involved in doing business research, from formulating research questions, reviewing the literature, and designing a questionnaire, to carrying out data analysis and presenting research results. The strengths and weaknesses of each research method are examined to help students choose an appropriate methodology, and the wider philosophical issues and ethical controversies that affect business research are discussed to help students make informed research decisions.

The book examines in depth the distinction between quantitative and qualitative research techniques and how and when they should be used, and marries theoretical issues with topical case examples from a number of work-related fields (such as management, strategy, and marketing). It has also been comprehensively updated to reflect the growing use of the internet as a source of data and medium for conducting research, and places new emphasis on the student experience of research by relating the activities of real student researchers back to the research process.

New to this Edition
- Brand new chapter on reviewing the literature that introduces the steps involved in undertaking a critical review to help students get the most out of their reading and build a strong platform for further research.
- Themed boxes that focus on examples of real, published research, key concepts, and practical tips and skills to help students grasp core principles sooner and apply their learning to new research situations.
- Expanded online research guide that takes students step-by-step through their research project and provides essential research advice, checklists, templates, and case exercises to help students become more engaged and organized researchers.

Alan Bryman is Professor of Organizational and Social Research in the Management Centre, University of Leicester.

Emma Bell is Senior Lecturer in Organization Studies in the School of Business and Management, Queen Mary, University of London.