RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: Architectural Blocks for Scientific Data Development

A research design is defined as the overall plan or structure that guides the process of conducting research, i.e., a blueprint for how a study will be carried out, including the methods and techniques that will be used to collect and analyzees data. A well-designed research study is essential for ensuring that the research objectives are met and that the results are valid and reliable. Understanding different types of research designs is essential as it helps ensure that the approach is suitable given the research aims, objectives and questions, as well as the resources available. Without a clear big-picture view of how the research will be designed can lead to the potential risk of making misaligned choices in terms of the methodology – especially the sampling, data collection and data analysis decisions.