Project Management Aim To introduce best practice in the management of research projects outlining the need to plan, schedule and effectively control assignments. Structure Conceptualising the problem Research plan and proposal Gantt Charts and PERT Case Study Example: Herbal Revitalising Fruit Juice Summary and conclusions

Conceptualising the Problem Research must be cost effective if it is to be useful and effective research requires considerable planning, scheduling and control. Task 1: Get to the heart of the problem. Clear focus on issue faced. Follow Rickards (1974) technique-goal orientation approach.: Problem, Need, Obstacles & Constraints. Problem redefinition & focus on key unanswered questions.

The Research Plan and Proposal A plan is a blueprint for the design, execution and monitoring of a study. Start from unanswered questions. Secondary data Primary Data a) Select methodology: data collection method, means of analysis and sampling frame b) Data Analysis; c) Interpretation of Results; d) Presentation of results and scenario planning. Conclusions

Gantt Charts and PERT Tools to aid effective management of market research projects. PERT - Project Evaluation and Review Technique. Tool to monitor and organise resources to complete on time and within budget. PERT 3-part technique a) Planning: identify all the stages and tasks involved in the project (work packages). b) Scheduling: determine start and finish times for phases c) Controlling: Schedule to monitor progress (milestones) & outputs (deliverables).

Project Management Case Study Feasibility Study for a herbal based revitalising fruit juice A Flow Chart of the Methodology Work Package Outlines - assign responsibility SWOT Analysis FCB Grid

Example of Workpackages

Gantt Chart

Herbal based revitalising fruit juice: S.W.O.T Analysis Strengths  Perceived High quality.  Revitalising.  Natural.  Fresh.  Supermarket interest - distribution outlets.  Young professional segment positive.

Integrating Research and Promotional Activity (FCB Matrix) HABITUAL SATISFACTION INFORMATIVEAFFECTIVE >> HIGH LOW Involvement > >

Conclusions Conceptualisation of problem. For example is there a gap in the market for a low fat cereal or is the present marketing mix for Clarks’ shoes satisfactory? Specification of information required What information will best meet the research objectives? Use secondary data. If primary data collection, design method. Decide on sampling design / construction of data collection instrument. Data Collection. Analysis and interpretation of results. Communicate the findings and implications. Integrate into decision-making.