RBP020L050H Business Research Methods Assignment Sample
Module code and Title: RBP020L050H Business Research Methods Assignment Sample
Section 1: Comparing two research methodologies.
1.1 Research problem
Small and Medium scale business organisations functioning across international platforms in modern economic scenario have been subjected to challenges related to digital transformations. Journal published by Chen et al. (2021) presented a research problem emphasising on “impact of limited resources and capabilities possessed by small business organisations. This has acted as barriers in acquiring global market size.”
This author explained that digital transformation is considered to be the primary aspect of business information in modern day economy, which allows local brands to obtain international expansion. Importance of digital transformation and barriers experienced by small business enterprises from a global perspective was analysed in the chosen study.
Research problems presented by this author had involved four main barriers of digital transformation for small businesses such as, “lack of funding”, “lack of human resources”, “technical limitations” and “absence of digital efficiency”. Hence, it can be explained that financial and innovative adversities prevalent among small scale organisations act as obstructions for global business transformation.
Global outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020 was considered to be a primary barrier for small scale firms in performing market expansion across international platforms. As observed by Priyono et al. (2020), sudden imposition of lockdowns and travel restrictions across international boundaries had obstructed small scale organisations possessing limited budgets to provide remote working facilities.
Lack of urgent digital or virtual working facilities present in small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) had resulted in loss of revenue, employee precious and market competency. Research problems that are present in this journal had explained about “lack of digital efficiency in SMEs had created challenges on business transformation in global brands during Covid-19 pandemic”. Analysis of research problems of the two chosen journals had commonly imposed on understanding barriers of business transformation from the perspective of “digitalisation”.
1.2 Literature review: Selected key readings
Business transformation of small and medium scale businesses had involved theoretical perspectives and practical implications based on, “Digital Transformation Strategy” and “Digital Technology Based Business Model Transformation”. As per the views of Garzoni et al. (2020), digital transformation strategies observed by SMEs in developed countries like UK had focused on acquiring uniqueness in preliminary technological innovation.
The concept of preliminary technology innovation can be defined as primary planning or executioner stage that can be adopted for acquiring market competency. Interlinking this statement with key readings presented by Chen et al. (2021), it can be explained that rapid transformation from traditionally accustomed business operations to online integration for satisfying global consumer demands. This author had stated that, lack of active governmental role in providing financial assistance to small businesses as policy makers, had resulted in creation of limited growth prospects.
Digital technology-based model transformation adopted by international business organisations was considered as an important aspect, utilised to satisfy the concept of global business transformation. As asserted by Priyono et al. (2020), digital business transformation during first and second wave of Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 was considered to be essential for business sustenance in rapidly fluctuating economic states.
Existing digital presence in large scale business organisations was expanded through significant financial investment, which was identified as a major barrier for small enterprise owners. Key readings from this journal comprise an understanding regarding “importance of digital transformation in enhancing business competency of SMEs during Covid-19 pandemic”.
Limitations related to high installation and maintenance costs of digital technology had obstructed small scale enterprises of developing countries like Indonesia to acquire business expansion. The author had identified that, “greater distribution of income inequality between developed and developing economies, act as an external challenge for SMEs for global brand expansion”.
Literature presented in the journal published by Chen et al. (2021) has focused on evaluating “Small Business and Government Policies”, “Digital transformation and Sustainability” and “Role of Internal Organisational Operations”. Limitations related to “4Ps Marketing Mix” and “Product Designing” concepts observed in SMEs were addressed in this study in terms of understanding barriers experienced during formation of business goals.
Authors of this journal had identified that active role imposed by respective national and local governmental bodies in developing economies would likely improve overall financial state of a nation. According to Fletcher and Griffiths (2020), Governmental policies incorporated by performing digital transformation enables SMEs to reduce the burden of financial and resource management risks, thereby enhancing concentration on business innovation.
However, excessive government intervention related to imposition of high excise duties, VAT and service taxes may result in withdrawal of business projects by smaller enterprises.
On the other hand, Priyono et al. (2020) had predominantly focused on interlinking the necessity of digital transformation for global business expansion during Covid-19 pandemic. Authors of this study had emphasised on understanding the importance of digital transformation among SMEs, required for strengthening domestic market capacity of developing nations.
Chosen developing economies such as Indonesia had explained the aspect that, “effective utilisation of innovative business information for satisfying global consumer traffic, leads towards internal business expansion”. Small scale forms in Indonesia were recommended to concentrate on acquiring a digitally efficient innovation process, in order to increase operational and financial sustainability during Covid-19 pandemic.
1.3 Two chosen research methods
(a) Application of research methodologies
In this research, two different research methodologies are adopted to conduct research activity. These research methodologies are adopted by businesses to understand challenges faced by small local businesses which are interested in transforming into global business brands. Chen et al. (2021) opined that “case study” and “mono method” are considered to study challenges faced by small businesses that are interested to transform into global business practices.
Contrarily, Priyono et al. (2020) highlighted that “multiple case studies” and “mixed method” are considered to get a better understanding of barriers, such as non-availability of suitable technology. Followed by maintaining positive relations between business partners faced by businesses interested to establish their brands and transform their business practices.
A case study examination has benefits, as it permits one to gain a practical understanding of research topic. According to Chen et al. (2021), case study evaluation also enables to study of information from multiple sources and this research method has limitations for generalising results. Case study analysis further provides an in-depth analysis of business phenomena of digital transformation of small businesses (Priyono et al. 2020).
A case study as a research design is useful for research purposes, as it enables an understanding of internal business processes in organisations. This research design increases rigour of a study and allows for application of logic while generalising concepts. It also permits the selection and study of subjects that are different from one another.
As discussed by Heale and Twycross (2018), case study methods have benefits and limitations, however, it is commonly used for availability of data that increases chances of successfully resolving research questions. According to Priyono et al. (2021), studying multiple case studies is expected to provide better results compared to studying a single case study to get a comprehensive understanding of challenges. Interpretation of challenges that are being faced by businesses was interested in becoming global brands from small businesses.
(b) Contribution to theory and research
Primary Qualitative Interview Analysis – Mono Method
A case study enables creation theory and also allows to test of a hypothesis. For this reason, this is adopted for conducting research activities. Chen et al. (2021) highlighted that multiple case studies are useful for building theories and it enables increased flexibility and allows one to answer different research questions. A case study as a research design helps to identify challenges and opportunities for theory building.
According to the authors, analysing different case studies enables businesses to fulfil current and future demands. At the time, it allows to get a better understanding of challenges faced by businesses. There are different digital transformation frameworks and in this case, an integrated methodology is explained to study digital transformation and innovative strategies are adopted to improve user experience.
Single case study analysis enhances value proposition and helps to get a better understanding of stakeholder impact. Different theories, such as “Cognizants’s digital transformation framework” and “digital reinvention framework” are also explained for multiple benefits achieved by businesses. Therefore, a single case study is used to understand human resource allocation gaining a better understanding of the learning process and investment in technology are studied as part of research activity (Chen et al. 2021).
Secondary Qualitative Thematic Analysis – Mixed Method
As per view of Priyono et al. (2021), multiple case study analysis approaches are better for theory-building and conducting future research. However, conducting multiple case studies is expensive and it is expected to take more time. Adopting case studies as research methods also restricts number of cases to be studied to understand different challenges faced by local businesses interested in becoming global brands.
During COVID-19, different case studies are considered to be research methodology, as it allows multiple benefits by increasing flexibility of research activity at any point of research (Dodds and Hess, 2020). This research method enables identification of major challenges faced by small businesses that are interested in becoming global brands. This research strategy allows to focus on priorities and enables a better understanding of concepts that impact business operations.
Priyono et al. (2020) further added that survey has not been used hence it created limitations to testing any proposed theory that helps to identify challenges faced by businesses to become branded companies from small businesses. A case study is a beneficial method for understanding different phenomena from an organisational context. Case study method helps to develop theories that are applicable to real fields and useful for explaining new topics.
As stated by Wood et al. (2020), case studies increased rigour and credibility of qualitative research. Grounded theory was implemented to conduct data analysis. Digitalisation practices adopted by SMEs and implications of technology business practices are studied. Multiple case study analysis allows theoretical developments and provides suitable ways to answer research questions. This method also enables businesses to provide adequate information to suggest suitable recommendations. Using case studies enable businesses to evaluate empirical evidence and study different dimensions of business practice.
(c) Gaps of methods
There are several differences present in terms of research methodologies adopted by organisations to understand challenges faced by small businesses that are interested in making their brands global. In the opinion of Chen et al. (2021), different frameworks for attaining digital transformation are explained, whereas Priyono et al. (2021) used a case study method to explain ground theory. Ways limited resources of small businesses impact their ability to attain digital transformation and factors that provide businesses competitive advantage is not fully understood.
Chen et al. (2021) mostly focused on government’s role to attain digital transformation and it created barriers to understanding similar factors that impact businesses. Number of government programs dedicated to supporting small businesses is not specifically mentioned, which created another barrier for businesses aiming to adopt digital transformation process.
This support is crucial for small businesses to establish their brand identity therefore a lack of understanding is observed in research process. As per view of Priyono et al. (2021), a short description of companies belonging to different sectors is explained which also created gaps in understanding of research process.
(d) Advantages and disadvantages of research methods
Advantages and disadvantages of multiple case studies via a mono-method
Case study methods are used for research process because of their several benefits hence this method. As reported by Purwanto et al. (2020), a case study allows for finding solutions posed by research questions and it is also used to grasp impact of innovative approaches such as work from home in education sector as well. This method is adopted by Chen et al. (2021) to identify different pathways adopted by small businesses and attain digital transformation.
This study has specifically used case study methods, along with interviewing different managers who maintain management practices and business operations. Mono method adopted as a research process has its benefits, as interviews of top management personnel provided a practical understanding of challenges faced by small businesses interested in developing a strong brand identity.
Advantages and disadvantages of multiple case studies via a mixed-method
In case of Priyono et al. (2020), case study analysis has helped to create seven major themes that affect the digital transformation process. Case study analysis is used to build major themes and acceleration of digital transformation is observed in businesses operating in digital economy. It enabled to get a detailed understanding of digital transformation strategies adopted by SMEs. There are disadvantages present to using case studies for identifying digital transformation challenges.
If businesses fail to attain digital transformation, then technology-related gaps are expected to increase among businesses and their competitors (Priyono et al. 2020). Mixed methods applied help to get a better understanding of these challenges faced by small businesses that are interested in creating a strong brand image in digital economy.
(e) Constraints faced during research process
There are several constraints faced during research process and there are benefits and challenges that are present in both mono and mixed-method.
Mono method constraints
As per view of Chen et al (2021), applying mono methods requires expertise as without which biases are expected to impact research process. It is observed that small businesses have fewer resources to attain digital transformation compared to large businesses. This impacted their ability to attain digital transformation-related goals successfully. Interviews are used to get an understanding of different challenges faced by small businesses to create a positive brand image.
Mixed method constraints
Mixed methods have limitations as observed during research process to study challenges in path of digital transformation in SMEs. According to Priyono et al. (2020), mixed-method used by businesses are difficult to conduct, as these processes consume more resources and time. Challenges are faced while conducting thematic analysis and it impacts understanding of digital transformation impacting sales practices in companies. Lack of digital strategy impacting adoption of digital culture is also impacted.
Section 2: Instruments and Conclusion
2.1 Instrument
(a) Proposed research instrument
Chen et al. (2021) acquitted information by conducting semi-structured interviews in qualitative format. Peer-reviewed journals chosen for this study had commonly emphasised on understanding challenges faced by Small Business enterprises while developing strategies for global business expansion. However, this method is disadvantageous when it comes to answering specific research questions, thereby making interviews to be appropriate.
Primary Qualitative Interview Analysis
Semi-structured interviews performed in the journal published by Chen et al. (2021), were benefited by acquiring in depth information related to organisational strategies in global business expansion. A sample size of 10 managerial heads and owners of SME retail, food sector, hospitality, hostels, white goods industry and toy stores will be chosen for analysing diverse business expansion strategies.
Thirteen interview questions were proposed to managerial heads and responses were analysed through application of “Cognizant’s Digital Transformation Framework” [Refer to Appendix 2]. Authors of this study had selected Digital Transformation Framework as a primary analysis tool for evaluating three major concepts. Demand for digitalisation in SMEs, relation of digitalisation with global brand expansion and barriers of digital business models in SMEs were analysed in this study.
A combination of “Judgement Sampling” and “Quota Sampling” was utilised for selecting business organisations (Chen et al. 2021). These are specifically associated with small and medium scale industry. Consideration of judgement sampling method would assist the authors in performing an exploratory study in a sustainable and time efficient manner. On the other hand, the proposed quota sampling technique would help in identifying similarities and differences of business and digital transformation observed across diverse industries.
- b) Reflection regarding designing the chosen instrument
Managerial interviews conducted in Sustainability journal published by Chen et al. (2021) had helped me to understand the current state and demand for digital business transformation in SMEs. I had identified that utilisation of automated equipment as a replacement to human labour was considered to be a beneficial aspect of digital transformation. However, absence of specialised digital skills possessed by employees of SMEs was identified as major barriers.
Identification of demerits and opportunities for automated operational transformation had assisted me in understanding the requirement of Government support for development of digital training platforms. As per my analysis from interview responses, key similarities of managerial responses included, “opportunities of global business expansion through digitalisation performed in operational and customer service automation”.
On the other hand, I had evaluated major barriers of business expansion in “lack of networking strategies”, “lack of financial capacity” and “absence of digitally enabled procurement strategies”. From this analysis, I had derived a key finding that “Government initiated interconnected communication, supply chain and subsidised project plans would likely to improve international competency of small businesses”.
Chen et al. (2021) presented an experience in analysing diverse digital transformational strategies observed across retail, food and hospitality sectors. Interview analysis had confirmed that diverse digital transformation practices observed across SMEs had commonly focused on enhancing consumer engagement by influencing purchasing power.
Hence, I had derived an explanation supporting this analysis that growth of business operations across global boundaries can be directly linked with growth of customer engagement across purchasing platforms. Reducing negative impact of major barriers, such as lack of financial stability, inefficiency of human capital and limited market insight can be initiated through Government intervention. Active Government intervention is likely to enhance innovative performances of small service businesses through increase of operational flexibility and growth of long-term financial stability.
2.2 Conclusions
Journals consulted for this study had commonly focused on identifying barriers faced by small business organisations in obtaining digital transformation across international boundaries. The concept of digital transformation and interrelation with global business expansion was evaluated in research problem.
It was analysed that in terms of obtaining rising consumer demand for digitalisation, small scale enterprises had focused on achieving global expansion through digital improvement. Hence, it was confirmed that application of “Digital transformation Framework” across both developed and developing economies would likely result in simultaneous business growth.
Analysis of common barriers experienced by SMEs in general and during Covid-19 pandemic can be identified as financial, operational and managerial inefficiency. As an improvement suggestion, active participation of Government authorities was proposed for SME sector.
Chosen research instrument had involved semi-structured interviews as conducted in the journal published by Che et al. (2021). This in turn, is likely to assist in acquiring in-depth operational details. Based on key findings acquired from primary interview analysis, opportunities of digital business transformation in satisfying consumer demand was analysed.
Section 3: Research Dissemination
3.1 Relevance and audience
Findings of this study have helped to identify suitable audiences who are expected to benefit from this study. In case of Chen et al (2021), it is suggested that demand for attaining digital reformation is increasing in business practices.
Small businesses are required to adopt suitable practices that enable them to attain digital transformation and interviews also ensure that government plays a vital role in supporting small businesses that are interested in creating their brand identity. Top management who participated in this interview revealed that government support is a vital factor for small businesses aiming to attain digital transformations.
As per the views of Priyono et al. (2020), implementation of digital transformation is dependent on business models. It is also observed that there are key features needed to be considered by businesses for successfully attaining digital transformation. At the same time, it is revealed that as digital transformation includes dramatic and rapid changes, suitable firework is required to successfully attain digital transformation.
Increasing use of technology for improving sales and revenues of businesses while going through digital transformation is necessary. Promoting businesses on social media and using technology to increase customer engagement is required as part of a digital transformation strategy.
3.2 Communication of research
Communicating research process and its findings are vital for research process, therefore, it is important to document different stages of research process. As per my understanding, Chen et al. (2021) highlighted the significant role government plays to support SMEs which are adopting strategies to attain digital transformation. There are different digital outreach programs created by governments to popularise mobile payments and enhance cloud innovation.
Government strategies to promote digital board brand services also impacted small businesses’ ability to attain success and create strong brand names. There is a requirement of increasing government support for small businesses that are struggling due to a lack of resources.
As stated by Priyono et al. (2020), businesses are required to consider key features and prerequisites along with consequences of digital transformation activity. Impact of COVID-19 affecting digital transformation is depicted. Thematic analysis enables to reveal of three different paths that are useful for small businesses adopting digital transformation.
Businesses are required to adopt digitisation more, as digitalisation process impacts sales activity of businesses. Lastly, creating suitable digital business partnerships is necessary to support small businesses in attaining their business goals and improving business practices in market. Businesses are required to adopt practices that enable them to adopt digitisation faster by creating ad-hoc teams that are able to accomplish tasks within fixed time.
References
Fletcher, G. and Griffiths, M., (2020). Digital transformation during a lockdown. International Journal of Information Management, 55, p.102185.
Garzoni, A., De Turi, I., Secundo, G. and Del Vecchio, P. (2020), “Fostering digital transformation of SMEs: a four levels approach”, Management Decision, Vol. 58 No. 8, pp. 1543-1562.
Heale, R. and Twycross, A., (2018). What is a case study?. Evidence-based nursing, 21(1), pp.7-8.
Priyono, A., Moin, A. and Putri, V.N.A.O., (2020). Identifying digital transformation paths in the business model of SMEs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity, 6(4), p.104.
Purwanto, A., Asbari, M., Fahlevi, M., Mufid, A., Agistiawati, E., Cahyono, Y. and Suryani, P., (2020). Impact of work from home (WFH) on Indonesian teachers performance during the Covid-19 pandemic: An exploratory study. International Journal of Advanced Science and Technology, 29(5), pp.6235-6244.
Wood, L.M., Sebar, B. and Vecchio, N., (2020). Application of rigour and credibility in qualitative document analysis: Lessons learnt from a case study. The qualitative report, 25(2), pp.456-470.
Appendices
Appendix 1: Mind Map
Appendix 2: Interview Questions
The interviews were conducted using an outline but were not limited to the following:
- Do you have business problems that your organization encounters in terms of strategic or daily operation?
- What digital technologies/tools does your organization implement to support its business strategies and operations? Why?
- What digital technologies/tools does your organization need to support its business strategies and operations? Why?
- What are the impacts of digital technologies implementation on your customers, products, processes, systems, and organization? How?
- What are the barriers that prevent you from implementing those digital technologies in your business?
- What do you think of the difficulties regarding digital transformation in your business?
- Do you have sufficient resources to adopt digital transformation in your organization?
- As top management, do you have sufficient digital capabilities and knowledge to lead your organization to adopt digital transformation?
- Does your organization have technical problems preventing implementation of digital technologies/tools? What are they?
- In your opinion, what should the government do to help small businesses with digital transformation processes?
- What should the government do to drive digital technologies adoption in your organization and your industry?
- Do you have specific policies and programs you expect from the government to support your organization or industry?
- Do you encounter difficulties in participating in government programs? What do you suggest the government should do to eliminate the difficulties?
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