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The scientific method is an organized way to reach conclusions that avoids relying on unscientific observations (e.g., anecdotes, hearsay, propaganda, storytelling, etc.). With this in mind, think about a business problem within your present organization or a managerial problem that you are interested in solving. The goal here is not to solve the problem, but use the scientific method to approach the problem in an orderly way.
Capstone Advice (for students in a degree program that require a capstone project such as the MSM): Students will be required to complete a Capstone and address a managerial problem at the end of this degree program. It’s best to begin thinking about this process now. To leverage this course fully, use this activity to begin thinking about a managerial problem that may become the topic of your Capstone. For those of you in degree programs that do not require a capstone project (i.e. MBAA) you will have other smaller research papers and projects that will benefit from the information presented in this module.
A shortened version of the topic or problem should become the title of your Discussion Board post. You may address a managerial problem, or research other business related topics. You may choose something you are personally familiar with or simply curious about. (Note: the topic selected will be used for Activity 5.3, 6.X, 7.X, 8.X and 9.X.)
Below are a few topic examples:
- What role does salary play in the retention of mid-level managers?
Explanation: This is a proposition that needs to be turned into a testable hypothesis. A survey could be used to gather data on salary levels and the desire to remain with the organization. These findings could be correlated (keep in mind correlation does not imply causation) to determine if there is a linkage between salary and retention. The literature review will show what we already know about this topic. - Does the time-in-chair work model (e.g., 9am – 5pm) have an effect on worker productivity when compared the deadline-based (e.g., Complete XYZ by this date) work model when performing the same task?
Explanation: This is a proposition. Once a specific task is chosen, a hypothesis can be created using that representative task. An experiment comparing two groups, one using each of the models, on productivity measured by task completion would be the best way to test this hypothesis. The literature review should uncover many existing theories on the nature of work and productivity. - Does the millennial generation perceive command-and-control leadership as incompatible with their generational values?
Explanation: This is potentially a new theory that needs to be tested if it has not been done already. The construct generational values would need to be better defined. A qualitative method such as interviews may work best to dialogue with millennials about different scenarios that use different leadership styles. A survey could also be used where millennials agree or disagree with certain leadership statements. The literature review will help show how to best test this theory since others have used similar methods to test similar theories.
Once you have a topic, create 1-2 substantive paragraphs per section (a total of 3-6 paragraphs):
- Provide a brief background of the problem or area of research and the organizational setting or context. Be descriptive.
- Why is solving this problem or conducting this research important to management and the organization?
- How can other organizations or others within your organization benefit from your research?
Then, read and comment on the ideas of two other students. These comments should include high-level advice on the feasibility of the idea along with low-level advice on how to conduct the research and solve the problem.
