The research methodology proposed for the present research will define logical steps and research methods used to solve the research problem, as well as to achieve the proposed research objectives and to illustrate how the research question(s) will be answered. With the choice of a research philosophy, approach, strategy, and methods, the present research project will aim to answer the study’s key question which is the degree of interdependence between gender and business start up success. More specifically, the following study seeks to answer the research question in two main parts: (i) by understanding the weaknesses or strengths of characteristic gender differences thereby determining the most beneficial traits in creating successful business ventures, and (ii) by identifying individual perceptions and motives impacting on the non-financial success of business start ups between both genders. More specifically, understanding the collection and analysis of data will be underpinned by the assumptions made under the proposed methodological approach which will comprise the following critical research methodology components.
Mono Method
The choice of a mono method in research simply means that the research project employs a single technique for data collection, and a correspondingly single procedure to conduct the data analysis (Saunders, et al., 2009). In this study, an online questionnaire survey will be used in data collection and the collected data will be analysed to formulate a firm conclusion to the subject matter.
Cross-sectional Study
Unlike in longitudinal studies where the research process is focused on development and changes over time, cross-sectional studies, often employing the survey strategy, tend to describe a snapshot of phenomena at a particular time. Cross-sectional studies are also considered ideal for research projects that are time constrained. In general, it is anticipated that the primary research data will identify any links between gender-based entrepreneurial intentions and motivations for starting a business against performance and achievements.
Realism Research Philosophy
In essence, realism is a philosophy that separates the real existence of objects away from the human mind to show that reality is not confined to what an individual or collection of minds perceive, but quite independent of the mind’ conceptions. The realist school of thought is an epistemological branch comparable to positivism, but differs from the idealistic belief that the truth can only be what is contained in or perceived by the mind (Saunders, Lewis, & Thornhill, 2009). Realism can be approached either as direct or critical realism. While direct realism holds the “What You See Is What You Get” paradigm to be true, critical realism asserts that what we see is just a sensational representation of the real world which could possibly (and rightly) be dismissed as deceptive (Saunders, et al., 2009). However, direct realists counter the idealistic point of view by arguing that insufficient information is the cause of such illusions. In simplified terms, the key difference between critical and direct realism is that although direct realism claims that the world is experienced in a single dimension, critical realism claims a two-step view of the natural world. From the critical realist viewpoint, first there exists an object and its associative sensations, and second, each sensation leaves a prolonged mental process that continues after our senses have been triggered by the sensations encountered. Conversely, from the direct realist perspective, the first step is usually deemed to be sufficient on its own (Saunders, et al., 2009).
Deductive Approach to Current Research
The deductive approach is linked to rigorous scientific testing and subjective theory development. Deductive research predominantly allows for the prediction of phenomena occurrence in accordance to natural science laws which present a basis for explaining and controlling phenomena (Saunders, et al., 2009). The progression of deductive research as adopted in the current study follows a systematic 5-step sequential process which comprises of;
i. Hypothesis deduction
ii. Hypothesis expression in terms of operational factors
iii. Testing the outcomes in order to suggest operational hypotheses
iv. Examining outcomes that either confirm or indicate the need for theory modification
v. Theory modification where necessary
The deductive approach uses existing theoretical propositions for the formulation of research objectives and question(s), as well as the devising of data collection and analysis procedures (Saunders, et al., 2009). The current study adopts the deductive approach because although majority of the time is spent on preparing for data collection and analysis, conducting deductive research is relatively quicker since time-to-completion can be predicted and scheduled accurately. Furthermore, with regard to audience, business managers are more conversant with the deductive approach and highly likely to concur with conclusions assumed through this approach Saunders, et al., 2009).
Survey as a Data Collection Strategy
Usually associated with the deductive approach in descriptive and exploratory research projects, survey strategies are popularly used to answer questions of where, how many, what, who, and how much. Surveys are preferred because of their facilitation in economical data collection from sizeable population samples, as well as the ease in comparison and understanding of standardised data (Saunders, et al., 2009). Moreover, survey data can be analysed through inferential and descriptive statistics to explain or model particular relationships between variables thereby handing the researcher more control of the study results and findings.
Study Sample Population
The survey focuses on a population of 322 respondents (Facebook Group members). The study sample is part of a small community based in Portsmouth that helps and supports new or pre-start up companies. The “Start Up Disruptors” have a closed group on Facebook used as an ideas sharing platform. A sample of 50 men and 50 women will be randomly selected within the dedicated Facebook group. The sample size is only 30% of the population which makes it more achievable. Obtaining results from 100 participants makes it easier and sufficiently possible for the researcher to map out any differences or similarities between both genders. It is very important that the sample is 50/50 in terms of gender representation in order for the results to be fair, valid, and reliable.
Online Questionnaires
An online questionnaire was identified to be the most appropriate data collection tool for this research project. Internet-mediated questionnaires are either conducted from a website, or through email (Saunders, et al., 2009). However, it is important to note that internet browsers, display screens, and alternative operating systems on computers can result to different displays/presentations of the questionnaire design (Saunders, et al., 2009). Using online questionnaires, researchers are effectively and efficiently able to obtain results from a range of respondents (study participants) that differ in sex, age and the industry they work in. The data retrieved using this method will contribute towards a deeper investigation of the subject matter within the study’s main focus on the impact of gender on business Start Up success. Online questionnaires can reach out to a wide range of respondents meaning there will be more accurate data which can identify any patterns or correlations which in turn can assist in answering the research questions or achieving the objectives of the research.
Most importantly, good responses depend on the level of motivation on the respondents and the attractiveness of the questionnaire design (Saunders, et al., 2009). Therefore, a good questionnaire can help identify any trends that can help answer the research questions. The questionnaire can also clearly identify whether the intentions of starting a business differ between genders, as well as show to what extent these differences occur. Results from the questionnaire analysis may show other variables that may not have been identified in the literature review. An analysis on gender similarities or differences can be made with regards to each respondent’s perception on success and by “how much” they consider themselves to be successful in terms of their business.
Ethical Issues
A post asking for start-up business owners to participate in the online questionnaire survey will be made on the Facebook group wall in order to recruit and select the online questionnaire survey respondents. Interested respondents can either comment or send a direct message.
Before any participants are asked to complete the questionnaire, they will be required to complete a participation consent sheet which will include details about the faculty’s main contact person(s) at the university, the purpose of the questionnaire and a section explaining anonymity of the respondents. Every participant will be required to agree and give consent in order to participate in the questionnaire survey. The consent forms also assure the respondents that everything shared with the researcher is confidential and that all information is safely stored.
Data Handling
The research data will be stored on a password protected Microsoft Word document stored only on the researcher’s personal computer. This reduces risks of both online or offline breaches or unauthorised access. After the research project’s completion, the university will hold the report for grading purposes, and thereafter the dissertation, all consent forms, and the research data will remain in the University’s possession for a minimum of ten years. The password protected MS Word Document with the study’s findings will be retained on the researcher’s personal computer until September 1st 2018 in case any disputes concerning the collected data arise. The document(s) will duly be deleted permanently from the personal computer and other media (USB thumb drives or external Hard Disks) used by the researcher to store or transfer data.
Dissemination of Sensitive Research Data
Research data (including any document passwords) will only be shared with the faculty’s project supervisor. No part of the research will be shared with unauthorised external parties, including the questionnaire respondents or Facebook Group administrators.
Risk Assessment
Using the deductive approach is considered less risky (Saunders, et al., 2009). A common risk associated with the current research project is the “non-return” of fully completed online questionnaires especially in a “one-take” data collection exercise, or the dishonesty of respondents.
Importantly, although organisational or company data will be collected for analysis, all research standards and confidentiality factors will be considered to ensure informed consent. Therefore, information will only be obtained from respondents who agree to and successfully fill the consent form. Any respondent who does not comply will not participate in the questionnaire. Furthermore, the study’s sample population will not include vulnerable groups unable to give consent, no sensitive topics will be discussed, and there will be no intrusive questions resulting to anxiety or psychological stress. In this regard, no harm to the questionnaire respondents or the university as a result of participation in this research is anticipated; whether physical, reputational, or otherwise.
References
Saunders, M. N., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2009). Research methods for business students (5th ed.). Harlow, Essex, England: Pearson Education Limited.
