Procurement Research Methods

Evaluation and Suitability of Quantitative and Qualitative Methodologies in Undertaking an Empirical Study into Procurement Practice

Introduction

In research, there are procedures that should be followed in order to capture the essence of the study. Usually, the beginning of the investigation starts in recognizing the questions ascertained to the main topic and then finding responses. Because of the technologies and availability of large amount of information, there is significant reduction of burden in research studies. In the meantime, the ongoing process of research should be explored, such as the use of the book and online-published studies (websites and Internet). There are two recognized effective strategies that are part of a researcher/s’ study – quantitative and qualitative methods. However, in what ways did the two methods are effective, in terms of its application in a same practice. In order to answer this question, the paper will adopt the studies prepared by the various writers regarding the features of quantitative and qualitative methods. This is provided to be a simple guide for the future researchers by exploring the appropriateness of a method.

Quantitative Method

In general, the quantitative method is focused on the statistical process in which the study promotes the sample and then, matched to the study population. This is for the aim to ensure the comparability of demographic characteristics. The sample population is however, assumed to represent the entire population (Horsburgh, 2003). It is based on the positivism perspective and because of the strict formula or procedures, the judgment are created (Dray, 2004). Quantitative method is described as a powerful technique applied in research, particularly in human issues and geography because it can provide the valuable and accurate insights. However, the researcher/s must understand that this method should be appropriately used with the provided limitations (Marshall, 2007). Scientific methods are used as an approach in science oriented cases, and formal systematic process in terms of data findings. Clearly, the quantitative method possesses the ability to generate an analysis by describing, testing, and examining (cause and effect relationship) the subjects. The combination of the knowledge and developing the hypotheses the outcome can be determined. Apparently, both methods are using the sampling as their reference but must meet the criteria of data collection strategy. The difference is that quantitative method demands from the random selection of sample population. The advantage is that the findings are generalized. However, the random selection process is time consuming which is one of its drawbacks (Charoenruk, 2006).

Qualitative Method

In general, the qualitative method is focused on the participants who were chosen through the means of theoretical sampling. The process of selection is based on the ability of the participants to provide information. Furthermore, the application of theories and academic findings are also applied in this process, which is suitable to provide the explanations in terms of comparison of experiences or situations. This method is commonly used in nursing studies, managerial approach, communication issues, etc (Horsburgh, 2003). Qualitative research is also considered as interpretive research, naturalistic research, phenomenological research and descriptive research (Dray, 2004). Qualitative research method has a characteristic to develop the theory according to its findings. Usually, the qualitative method is used as a vehicle to study the various perspective of the subject. It has a system of enquiry which is concerned with the humans (for an instance) and the environment. It creates the understanding regarding the relationship of human and the associated aspects such as work, transactions, social being, and many others. This action is through the purpose of describing the empirical aspects that can be in a phenomenon and explaining the subject itself. The data can be obtained from the wide arrays of academics such as history, philosophy, anthropology, sociology, and psychology. In the deeper investigation of qualitative method, the historical foundation is recognized as one of its great disadvantages (Charoenruk, 2006).

Conclusion

The methods, qualitative and quantitative although with the obvious differences, compliment with each other. Because of this fact, most of the researches are facilitated with the combination of two methods in order to capture the true essence of their study. The use of the methods depends on the way on how to obtain the information; therefore, it is important to create decisions on what research method is suited for the paper, as well as the particular requirement that should be considered (Dray, 2004). In addition, it is important that the method is according to the complexity of the research and the generated analysis is based on the interpretation of the facts or data presented.

References:

Charoenruk, D., (2006) Communication Research Methodologies: Qualitative and Quantitative Methodology [Online] Available at: http://utcc2.utcc.ac.th/localuser/amsar/PDF/Documents49/quantitative_and_qualitative_methodologies.pdf [Accessed 12 July 2010]

Dray, L., (2004) Research Methods [Online] Available at: http://www.lamp.ac.uk/mit/pdf/report6.pdf [Accessed 12 July 2010].

Horsburgh, D., (2003) Evaluation of Qualitative Research, Journal of Clinical Nursing, Vol. 12 [Online] Available at: http://www.ruralhealth.utas.edu.au/gr/resources/docs/horsburgh-qual-research-evalution.pdf [Accessed 12 July 2010].

Marshall, A., (2007) A Critique of the Development of Quantitative Methodologies in Human Geography [Online] Available at: http://www.radstats.org.uk/no092/marshall92.pdf [Accessed 12 July 2010].