Problem Definition Research Methods for Managers

Defining the Problem Area Areas to explore: Problems that are currently existing and need to be solved Areas that the researcher feels need to be improved Concept or theory that needs to be tightened up to bring clarity to a situation Some research question that a researcher might want to explore

Problem Area Definition Existing problem Response to unspecific complaints which lead you to believe that something is going on and needs to be looked at. Requiring Improvement A policy has been put in place but you are not sure if it is really having the impact that it should. Tightening an empirical issue Taking a vague statement and making more precise Broad problem Curiosity about what is working or not working

Problem Area Definition The Statement A good problem statement does the following: Concisely states a situation that needs to be changed. States who/what is affected. Quantifies the problem

Problem Area Definition Causes Consider the following: Why does the problem exist? Is there more than one cause? Are the causes interdependent?

Problem Area Definition Consequences Consider the following: What are the consequences of the problem? How many people does it affect? Are there political, cultural, and economic effects?

Problem Area Definition What is a good problem statement? A problem statement is specific. A good thesis supplies a specific subject and a clear direction for your paper. The specific facts, details and examples that you use will help to clarify the idea that you are trying to express. Poor: Deregulation is good for the telecommunications industry. Better: Deregulation is not only welcomed by consumers as a way to lower prices, but it also serves as a catalyst for innovation.

Problem Area Definition A problem statement is restrictive. A good problem statement deals with restricted "bite-sized" issues, issues that would otherwise require a lifetime of writing. When you restrict the scope of your assertions in the thesis your writing will be more focused. The length of your paper will determine how restricted your thesis will be. Poor: there are many advantages to deregulating local telephone service. Better: Deregulating local telephone service has political, social and economic advantages.