Question 1

Based on the scenario given, please state how the researcher can devise a research design by looking at each of the criteria listed below. (Please give reason why).

ICBC Computers has been in the computer business for 15 years. The company has 14 branches all over Malaysia. The branches have managers but they do not have the autonomy to determine the price and promotions in their branch. The top management plays an active role in the daily operations of all branches. Recently the company has been incurring losses due to fierce competition.

Following this, the company decides to introduce changes in all branches to increase sales. Before implementing the change in all branches, the management would like to try them in 3 branches first. The Penang branch will try a leasing method, the Kuantan branch will use a cash only system. The Ipoh branch will use a combination of both. The company would like to compare the sales of next 3 months for all the three branches before deciding whther they would implement the change or not. The consecutive sales of three months will be used to reduce the fluctuations in monthly sales.

(a) Purpose of Research. [3 marks]

(b) Extent of researcher interference. [3 marks]

(c) Research Environment. [3 marks]

(d) Time Dimension. [3 marks]

(e) Unit of analysis. [3 marks]