Instructions

The research plan is a formal document that presents the research scope, methodology, and details regarding data collection and analysis. Research plans are crucial because they ensure that all parties involved (e.g., internal or external clients and research team members) are on the same page. When research plans are used as contracts between clients and research firms, they are called research proposals.

Step 1: Review Research Objectives

Review the research objectives below and respond to one.

Company	Research Objective
Sams Club	Will lowering membership fees increase the number of joining members? If so, by how much?
MOD Pizza	How is our brand perceived in midwest American cities compared to our top competitors?
Bath & Body Works	Should Bath & Body Works offer a skincare line that includes cleansers, exfoliators, and anti-aging treatments?

Step 2: Select a Research Method

After reviewing Determining the Research Methodology in Chapter 2, pair the chosen objective with an appropriate research method.

Step 3: Prepare a Proposal

Prepare a brief proposal for the client in a Word document, slide presentation, or infographic.

The proposal should cover these components:

1. Study responsibilities
2. Objectives
3. Methodology
4. Deliverables (e.g., a final report or a data file)
5. Timeline
6. Investment

Research should be conducted on reasonable ballpark costs and timing. Rules of thumb from the textbook can be referenced. It is also encouraged to conduct additional research on cost and timing. Research could include articles regarding the method or information gathered by contacting actual research firms for ballpark estimates on the chosen method or methods.