BMGT2400 Consultancy and Research Methods 

Assignment 001

Comparative Analysis Report

Word Limit or equivalent (e.g. time)

1500 words

Weighting

50%

Learning Outcomes Assessed

2. Compare and contrast the merits and limitations of different research approaches and how they inform a research proposal

3. Demonstrate awareness of issues related to the practice of management consultancy, business research and professional conduct.

What do I need to do to make a success of this assignment?

Choose one of the research or consultancy topics supplied to you by the module team.
Compare and contrast two methodologies you could use to investigate the topic further:

• Introduce the topic you have chosen and the key issues in this area. Justify why you have chosen the two methodologies you have.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of each methodology?
• What types of analysis could be conducted with each methodology?
• What ethical considerations are there when using each methodology?
• What practical considerations are there when using each methodology?
• Overall, which methodology would you suggest is the most appropriate to investigate the topic you have chosen?

How should I present my work?

On the title page list the following:

• Module name and code
• Student number
• Submission date
• Assignment Number/Title
• The topic you have chosen

Introduction (suggested word count 200 words)

• Introduce the topic you have chosen and two specific issues in this area that you think needs to be researched, with a brief description of the proposed methodologies for each one.

Quantitative study (suggested word count 500 words)

• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the methodology?
• Comment on how data would be collected to ensure best practice
• Describe how analysis would be conducted, detailing the types of tests and variables.
• Ethical and professional considerations 

Qualitative study (suggested word count 500 words)

• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the methodology?
• Comment on how data would be collected to ensure best practice
• Describe how analysis would be conducted
• Ethical and professional considerations

Recommendation (suggested word count 300 words)

• Overall, which study do you think would produce the most valuable findings.

How can I obtain guidance on my assignment?

You can submit an assessment plan of your work in progress or a short piece of text (no longer than one side of A4, no smaller than Font 11) to enable you to obtain guidance on the overall structure and direction of your assignment. You should bring this plan/page to your assignment tutorial (taking place in week 15).