Research Philosophy Is A Belief Management Essay

look into school of thought Is A Belief Management EssayThe purpose of this chapter is to discuss the look for ism, overture, strategy that is relevant to this blood line inquiry. In addition, info gathering manner that is conducted to address the investigate problems as resultd in chapter 2 is also include. The look for methodological analysis leave alone be based on the interrogation onion plant as introduced by Saunders et al. (2009) construe 3.1. Selecting the appropriate methodology is essential for the military capability of any look into (Buckley, 2006). The right choice of the approach depart support to make a more than than than(prenominal) than informed decision around the research design and strategy that will be consistent with the research publication (Easterby-Smith et al., 1993). In this section, a questionnaire is to be knowing to support info array and further analysis on the research hypotheses. Besides, ethical issues of this rese arch ar also included in the end of this chapter.3.2 Research philosophical systemResearch doctrine is a belief deportive the way in which selective information around a phenomenon should be coded and study (Levin, 1988). It is signifi drive outt with peculiar(prenominal) reference to research methodology because (i) it gage help the researcher to tweak and specify the research methods to be used in a report, that is, to clear the over completely research strategy to be used, (ii) knowledge of research philosophy will enable and assist the researcher to evaluate assorted methodologies and methods and parry inappropriate use and unnecessary work by identifying the cookations of fact approaches at an early stage and (iii) it whitethorn help the researcher to be notional and innovative in either selection or adaptation of methods (Easterby-Smith et al., 1993).Figure 3.1 Research onionSource Saunders et al. (2009) jibe to Saunders et al. (2009), there argon quarte t whatsoever research philosophies in caution research including demonstrable(p)ness, realism, interpretivism and pragmatism. The choice of research philosophy will therefore influence the development of the research. And although each research philosophy has its strengths and weaknesses (Neville, 2005), the root chooses philosophy of positivism for this study because of the undermentioned reasons.The philosophy of positivism research is considered a source of knowledge closely associated with the physical and vivid sciences (Alavi and Carlson, 1992).The special features of positivism ar seen to be a philosophical political orientation and movement, and it has a certain influence in gracious perception (Birger, 2005).By positing a reality in separation of unfastened and object, the positivist effigy volunteers an intention reality a givest which researchers slew comp atomic number 18 their claims and ascertain truth (Popper, 1972). logical positivism is galacticly c oncerned with the scrutinying, confirmation and falsification, and call offive ability of generalizable theories intimately an objective, quick apprehended reality (Chua, 1986 Orlikowski and Baroudi, 1991).The objective of positivism is to provide a effectual logical foundation for empirical research, and simultaneously restrict the scope of human rationality in scientific study to disco genuinely the efficient beginningity with its aim to achieve the end goal Friedman (1953).3.3 Research approachIn their 2009 work, Saunders et al. referred to the two broad methods of reasoning as the deductive and inductive approaches. deductive reasoning works from the more general to the more peculiar(prenominal), meaning that it starts with a theory, and then hypotheses be actual and a research strategy is intentional to trial run the hypotheses. Meanwhile, inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to broader generalizations and theories, meaning that theories are develope d as a result of information gathering (Saunders et al., 2009). In this study, the author chooses deduction research approach due to the fol imprinting reasonsIt involves the development of a theory that is subjected to a rigorous test (Saunders et al., 2009).It is the dominant research approach in the natural sciences, where laws present the basis of rendering, allow the anticipation of phenomena, predict their occurrence and therefore permit them to be controlled (Collis and Hussey, 2003).Deductive reasoning is more narrow in temper and is concerned with testing or confirming hypotheses (Babbie, 2001) and therefore, more suitable with the circumstance of this study.3.4 Research strategySaunders et al. (2009) stated that research strategy is important as it will help to answer accompaniment research questions and meet research objectives, and that the choice of research strategy will be guided by the research questions and objectives, the extent of existing knowledge, the li mit of meter and other resources available. The strategies as indicated in the research onion (Saunders et al., 2009) are experiment, bumvass, effort study, action research, grounded theory, ethnography and archival research. In this study, the author thinks that upshot study strategy is virtually suitable and consistent with the research objectives, for the future(a) reasonsIt is a strategy for doing research which involves an empirical investigation of a particular contemporary phenomenon within its real life context utilise quintuple sources of evidence (Robson, 2002).It provides a better discretion and content theorization of the act upones and context in which the practices of management control take place (Morris and Wood, 1991 Adams et al., 2006 Berry et al., 2009 cited in Simoes and Rodrigues, 2008).It can be a very worthwhile way of exploring and repugn existing theories and provide a source of new research questions (Saunders et al., 2009).It has broad ability to generate answers to the questions wherefore, What and How (Saunders et al., 2009) that are raised in this study.According to Yin (1994), the case study methodology is the most suitable approach to answer the questions Why? and How? In this case, the questions we want to answer are Why has the BSC been introduced as a carrying out versement tool? and How is the BSC model evaluated via employees feedback? How is the birth amidst those measures? The improvement of this approach lies in the possibility of achieving triangulation (Denzin, 1978) which is come close ton by the possibility of using numerous entropy sources.3.5 Research MethodAs indicated in the research onion by Saunders et al. (2009), mono method, multi-method or mixed methods can be used as the system of appeal information for research projects. In multi-method, vicenary and soft researches are used widely in task and management research to differentiate two info collection techniques and data analysi s procedures (Saunders et al., 2009). Qualitative research method focuses on discovering and understanding the experiences, perspectives, and thoughts of participants-that is, qualitative research explores meaning, purpose, or reality (Hiatt, 1986). It is usually described as allowing a detailed exploration of a topic of interest in which training is collected by a researcher through case studies, ethnographical work, interviews, and so on (Harwell, 2011). Meanwhile, quantitative research method attempts to maximize objectivity, replicability, and generalizibility of findings, and is typically interested in prediction. Its key features are the use of instruments such as tests or surveys to collect data, and reliance on probability theory to test statistical hypotheses that correspond to research questions of interest (Harwell, 2011). In supporting this studys objectives, the author chooses to use both qualitative and quantitative researches. It is hoped that the combination of th ese two methods will strongly support the development of this study in terms of data collection and analysis.Specifically, qualitative approach will be applied in this study via closed questions in questionnaires to obtain information with its aim to beg off how the factors impacting BSC in current context of HSBC.Besides, data of research allows researchers to irritate and realise population attitudes, perceptions, and ideas just or so particular social questions with a small sample, as well as practical knowledge (Swidorski, 1980). Accordingly, questionnaire surveys play an important determination in helping researchers understand the principles of questionnaire design to justify results in an optimum and meaningful way (Slattery et al., 2011).3.6 Methods of collecting data3.6.1 entropy sourceData are facts, figures and other relevant materials, past and present, serving as bases for study and analysis (Dekeba, 2012). Therefore, data collection is an important aspect of an y display case of research study. Data gathered by different methods whitethorn provide different windows onto social world (Gilbert, 2008). On the other hand, in sinless data collection can impact the results of a study and ultimately virtuoso to invalid results (Afroze, 2010). Basically, data collection includes primary data and subaltern data. elementary data is the data which is collected for the first time (Hair et al., 2011). Researchers discussed that the major returns of primary data is that the information is specific, relevant, up-to-date and that they answer specific research questions that secondary data cannot. However, cost and time consuming are its main disadvantages (Onkvisit Shaw, 2008).Secondary data is the data which is not originally collected provided rather obtained from published or unpublished sources (Jha Shah, 2009). Its advantage is that it can be quickly and cheaply obtained, however the most important limitation is that it may not be accurate a nd updated, therefore not meeting specific research needs (Saunders et al., 2009).In particular, both primary data and secondary data are used in the research with the purpose of providing an objective and multifaceted view on the topic. Secondary data retrieved from e-books, e-journals from the Universitys e-library, websites and HSBCs available inbred sources and the banks internal and restricted reports on strategy, structure and procedures as inputs for chapter 1 and 2 and for designing questionnaires. Primary data is to be collected from a survey using questionnaires amongst HSBCs staff within the scope of this research.3.6.2 Data collection methodAs mentioned by Saunders et al. (2009), three ways of primary data collection include Observation, Interview and Questionnaires.Observation involves the systematic observation, recording, description, analysis and interpretation of peoples port (Hodges Videto, 2011). The main advantage is that it allow researcher to witness behavio rs, skills, record and devise those in their research. However, it is possible that the researcher makes incorrect observations and interpretations (Kerlinger, 1988).Interview is delineate by Kahn and Cannel (1965) as a purposeful discussion between two or more people. Interviews help researchers gather valid and reliable data that are relevant to their research questions and objectives but it is a costly method in term of time and money. The interviewer is also needed to be equipped with skills so that they do not interfere or mislead the interviewees with their questions (Saunders et al., 2009).Questionnaire is one of the most widely used data collection techniques widely in business and management research for descriptive or explanatory (Saunders et al., 2009). The term questionnaire is defined as a formalized set of questions with the purpose of obtaining information from respondents (Malhotra et al., 1996).According to Ackroyd and Hughes (1981), questionnaire has some limitat ions such as (i) respondents can misinterpret the questions and therefore harbor incorrect answers, (ii) limited information can be retrieved due to formatted questions, (iii) low chance for the collector to come back and ask for clarification from respondents and (iv) respondents may not be willing to answer if they are not required. However, jibe to Afroze (2010), there are various factors influencing the choice of a data collection method, including research questions, resources available, scope of work, timeline, and so on. Further to this study, the author decides to choose collecting data using questionnaires rather than observation and interview approaches when considering all these factors and referring to the next advantages (Ackroyd and Hughes, 1981).Large number of responses can be collected from a large number of people in a short period of time and in a relatively cost effective wayThe results of the questionnaires can be quickly and easily quantified by the researc her or through the use of a software packageIt can be analyzed more scientifically and objectively than other forms of researchWhen data has been quantified, it can be used to compare and contrast other research and may be used to measure changePositivists believe that quantitative data can be used to create new theories and/or test existing hypothesesFigure 3.2 Types of questionnaireSource Saunders et al. (2009)As indicated by Saunders et al. (2009), there are two kinds of questionnaires including self-administered and interviewer-administered questionnaires. In this research, self-administered, delivery and collection questionnaire is used, due to the following rationales. It is more cost effective to administer than face-to-face interviews, convenient to respondents as they can fat it at a time and place that is convenient for them, cut down the possibility of interviewer bias, and is perceived to be less intrusive than telephone or face-to-face surveys and hence, respondents w ill more readily respond truthfully to bare-ass questions (Eiselen et al., 2005). The responses are gathered in a standardized way, so questionnaires are more objective than interviews, and information can be collected from a large portion of a group (Milne, 1999). It facilitates generalization but on the downside, could lead to false conclusions (Deem et al, 2010).According to OLeary (2004), a well-designed questionnaire should meet the research objectives. It should give accurate and relevant information to the research questions and be clearly nonionised and presented in a way that ensures respondents fully understand the questions and provide accurate, straightforward and complete information. Accordingly, the author was trying hard on building a questionnaire that works in practice and meets the research objectives as elaborated in Chapter 1.In this research, the questionnaire is divided into six sections of 28 questions as described in Figure 3.3 below. They are designed to collect information regarding employees comments and feedback during the implementation shape of BSC in HSBC.Figure 3.3 Allocation of questions and research content subdivision definitionQuestionSection 1Balanced Scorecard weightingQ1-4Section 2Setting objectivesQ5-14Section 3FinancialQ15-18Section 4CustomerQ19-21Section 5Internal processingQ22-24Section 6Learning and growthQ25-28It is a combination of a 5-point Likert rating photographic plate (Likert, 1932) (1=strongly disagree 2=disagree 3=neutral 4=agree 5=strongly agree) and open-ended statements Please explain to collect both quantitative and qualitative information. In other words, questionnaires include both quantitative and qualitative questions with which participants can choose one of the five ratings and explain their choice. This ensures respondents generate the option to add their own views and feelings (Fisher, 2007) and, on the other hand, providing more information and facts to the author in doing research. It m ay take 10-15 minutes to complete a self-administered questionnaire. In general, the research is more about what employee experience is with the BSC than about getting a correct answer (Waal et al., 2009).In addition, it is necessary to have a questionnaire cover letter written in order to presently explain to the respondents of the questionnaire what the survey is all about and what is the purpose of asking the questions (Kiernan, 2005). Considering the nature of this research, it is also essential to let people know that their participation is freewill and that their data are anonymous and confidential.In this survey, 28 questions are designed in an attempt to get answers to 7 hypotheses as mentioned in Chapter 2, following are the general descriptionsQ1 is to discriminate sales and non-sales position of participants at HSBC.Q2 is to classify the seniority of the participants at HSBC.Q3 4 are to explore the proportion of the cardinal perspectives of HSBC BSC.Q5 is about the e ffectiveness of BSC at HSBC.Q6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16 19 are to explore positive effects of BSC at HSBC, in which Q6 is about strategy translation, Q8 about strategy link, Q9 about employee understanding, Q10 about tracking record, Q11 about clear communication, Q13 about feedback encouragement, Q14 about employee satisfaction, Q15 about long and short term link, Q16 19 about a clear focus on achieving targets.Q7, 8, 9 11 are more rivet on employee understandingQ17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 are about potential relationships between four perspectives, in which Q17 18 are about relationships between financial and customer value and learning and growth, Q20 21 about relationship between learning and growth and customer, Q22 23 about relationship between customer and internal processing and Q24 about relationship between learning and internal processing.Q25, 26, 27 28 are more focused on learning and growth to figure out if it is the weakest point in HSBC BSC.All these ques tions are written in details in the addendum 1 under a full questionnaire.3.6.3 Sampling method sample is a part of a population whose properties are studied to gain information about the whole (Webster, 1985). It is a process of selecting respondents form large part for the purpose of a study. Sampling owns a lot of advantages. It saves time, cost and efforts, making data collection become more manageable as fewer people are involved, and the results will be available more quickly. And to ensure a sample is representative, it is suggested to obtain as high a response rate as possible.According to Saunders et al. (2009), sample techniques help to decrease the amount of data needed to collect by considering only data from a sub-group rather than all possible cases or elements. Two types of sampling techniques are probability sampling and non-probability sampling. In probability sampling, sample units are selected randomly, whereas in non-probability sampling, they are selected ba sed on the researchers judgment, convenience, or other non-random process (Blattberg et al., 2008). The choice of which technique is used in this research is made in favor of non-probability sampling.imputable to the scope of work and the limitation of time, the survey is conducted amongst promethium Center staff only. Only 40 people are included in the survey, they are at different positions (teller, counter officer, service assistant, service manager, relationship officer, sales manager) and different levels of seniority (senior, junior, new joiner). And in this case, it is not necessary to launch a pilot test as recommended by Peterson (2000). There are two primary reasons.First, they are every daytime dealing with issues related to BSC systems, from setting objectives at the beginning to rating performance every mid-year or year-end. Their daily work and performance is directly subject to all measures of the BSC. Hence, a lot of opinions and feedback can be collected as a sour ce of data collection.Second, they are all works in Premier Center that is the same workplace with the author, then the nature of working environment and the point of view can be quite equivalent and easier to approach. Moreover, response rate can be high and they are more willing to support the author in doing questionnaires with frank answers. It is believed by many observers that higher response rate will assure more accurate survey results (Rea and Parker 1997).3.7 Framework of data analysisFigure 3.4 below provide a compact and connecter between research objectives as mentioned in chapter 1 and related literature in chapter 2 and equivalent hypotheses as provided in regards to questions designed in chapter 3 to collect data and information for further analysis.Figure 3.4 Summary of chapter 1, 2 and 3 and relevance verifiable OLiteratureHypothesis HQuestion QO1 To understand BSC as a performance measurement toolPerformance Measurement and BSCH1 BSC and its perspectives act as an effective performance measurement toolQ5O2 To identify positive and negative effects of BSC in HSBC VietnamPositive and negative effects of BSC (9P3N 9 positive 3 negative points)H2 There are relatively positive impacts of BSC in HSBCH4 There are relatively negative impacts of BSC in HSBCQ6-8-9-10-11-13-14-16-19Q12O3 To measure if HSBC BSC model is different compared to an ideal modelWhat is an ideal model? (Norton, 2000)H6 The writ of execution of BSC in a specific memorial tablet in practice is different with an ideal BSCQ3-4O4 To evaluate the relationship between employee understanding of the organizations objectives with a well-performing organizationWhat is a well performing organization? (Steward, 1999)H3 There is a positive relationship between a well performing organization and its employees understanding of its objectivesQ7-8-9-11O5 To analyze the causal relationships between 4 perspectives of BSCRelationship between four perspectivesH7 There is a causal relations hip between 4 perspectives of BSC in HSBCQ17-18-20-21-22-23-24O6 To identify the weakest one of the four perspectives.H5 Of the four perspectives of HSBCs BSC, learning and growth is the weakest point.Q25-26-27-28Due to the nature of this study and the limited timeframe, the author only uses simple formulas in excel 2007 to consolidate figures and analyze data. Analysis is based on quantitative and qualitative information collected from the survey as well as from the authors individual understanding of the subject.3.8 Ethical issuesSince people are the subject of research, it is very difficult to avoid falling into ethical issues (Monette et al., 2005). Therefore, approval has to be obtained from management to conduct this survey at Premier Centers, and a brief explanation of the purpose of the questionnaire is necessarily included in cover letter in order to have an appropriate approach and outlook from participants.In addition, the research topic is about Balanced Scorecard, which is in fact a relatively sensitive issue in terms of human resource management. It covers all employees and managers at all levels as well as issues concerning employees benefits, corporate governance, empowerment, pauperism and retention policy and so on. As such, particular attention must(prenominal) be paid to the approach of gathering information from subjects in banking sector which are considered to be sensitive, especially in HSBC where solitude and confidentiality is part of its code of conduct and execution. Being aware that disclosure of the banks information to third parties can put the bank at risk and result in functional and reputation loss, there are several points that need high freight as follow.First, participation in this survey is entirely voluntary and the rights of respondents as human beings should be respected at all times (Cohen, Manion Morrison 2004).Second, for privacy concerns, no actual names of participants are to be revealed. Information provide d by them remains confidential and will be reported in summary format only.Third, the content and results of this study are required to be unplowed private and confidential between the author and the professor only. As some restricted and highly restricted information has been used in this study, in particular highly sensitive and confidential performance data has been obtained, public access and reference are not allowed for any purposes.3.9 Chapter summaryThis chapter on methodology enables the author to gain a rich understanding of the context of the research and the processes being enacted, therefore answering the why, what and how questions (Saunders et al., 2006). This section also provides a connection between itself with the research objectives in chapter 1, literature and hypotheses in chapter 2 by presenting research method and data collection via a list of questions to be worked on. Further in the next chapter, results and analysis on collected data will be discussed in details.