Empirical Survey

Abstract

The research process can be structured along several stages which have to be completed in order to ensure that the research project meets the qualitative requirements that enable scientific progress (Schnell et al., 2005): Starting with the research question (chapter 1.1), theoretical hypotheses about cause-and-effect-chains have to be developed (chapter 3 and 4). Then, based on the research model (summarized in chapter 4.4), the selection and development of an appropriate research design (chapter 5.1) have to take place. Subsequently, the sample of units of analysis in the empirical setting (chapter 5.2) has to be chosen in interaction with the data collection method and the development of the operationalization of the constructs (chapter 5.3 and 6.2) to finally analyze the collected data with the according data analysis methods (chapter 5.5).