What is good research?  

Good research follows the standards of the scientific method. It generates dependable data that can be used reliably for managerial decision making. Here is a list of several defining characteristics of the scientific method. 

1. Purpose clearly defined. 
   The aim of the research , which includes the problem involved or the decision to be made should be clearly defined and sharply delineated in terms as unambiguous as possible. The statement of the decision problem should include its Scope, Limitations, and precise specifications of the meanings of all words and terms significant to the research. 
   
2. Research process detailed
   The research procedures used should be described in sufficient detail to allow another researcher to repeat the research. A significant procedural details helps the reader to estimate the validity and reliability of the data.
   
3. Research design thoroughly planned.
   The procedural design of the research should be carefully planned to provide results that are as objective as possible. To endeavor minimizing the influence of personal bias in selecting and recording data. 
   
4. High ethical standards applied. 
   A research design that includes safeguards against causing mental or physical harm to participants, and makes data integrity a first priority. Researchers have a responsibility to guard the welfare of the participants in the studies, and also the organizations to which they belong, their clients, colleagues, and themselves. 
   
5. Limitations frankly revealed. 
   The researcher should report, with complete frankness, flaws in procedural design and estimate their effect on the findings. He/She should be sensitive to the effects of imperfect design, and his or her experience in analyzing the data should provide a basis for estimating their influence. As a decision maker, you should question the value of research where no limitations are reported. 
   
6. Adequate analysis for decision maker's needs.
   The validity and reliability of data should be checked carefully.  The data should be classified in ways that assist the researcher to reach pertinent conclusions and clearly reveal the findings that lead to those conclusions. 
   
7. Findings presented unambiguously. 
   Language that is restrained, clear, and precise; assertions that are carefully drawn; an apparent effort to achieve maximum objectivity then to leave a favorable impression of the researcher with the decision maker. 
   
8. Conclusions justified. 
   Good researchers always specify the conditions under which their conclusions seem to be valid. They will not tempt to rely too heavily on data collected in a prior study and use it in the interpretation of a new study. 
   
9. Researcher's experience reflected. 
   The research report should contain information about the qualifications of the researcher. Which contributes to the greater confidence in the research if the researcher is experienced, has a good reputation in research, and is a person of integrity.
   

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