Research Data Analysis, conclusion and recommmendations

Chapter 4: Data Analysis and Findings This chapter should present and interpret the data collected during the research. 2.10. Recommended Structure i. Introduction Provide a brief introduction to the chapter. ii. Data Analysis Briefly explain what data analysis means and its purpose in research. iii. Data Analysis Techniques Used Explain the analytical techniques used in the research, such as: • Frequency tables. • Percentages. • Mean. • Graphs and charts. • Other appropriate statistical techniques. iv. Analysis of Primary Data Present the analysis: • Question-wise, where appropriate. • Research-objective-wise. • Using suitable tables, graphs, charts and calculations. All tables and figures should have appropriate titles and numbering. Example of a Mean Calculation Lower Limit (LL) Upper Limit (UL) Midpoint (X) Frequency (f) Frequency × X 20 25 22.5 4 90 26 30 28 5 140 31 35 33 8 264 36 40 38 1 38 41 45 43 2 86 Where applicable, calculations should be clearly presented and explained. 2.11. Findings The findings should be organised according to the research objectives. A useful approach is to convert each research objective into an appropriate subheading, while removing the introductory phrase such as "To study...". For example: Research Objective: To study the impact of customer satisfaction on customer loyalty. Findings Subheading: Impact of Customer Satisfaction on Customer Loyalty The findings section should normally be approximately 3–5 pages, although it may be extended where the research requires additional discussion. All external sources used to explain or support the findings must be appropriately referenced. Chapter 5: Conclusion and Recommendations 2.12. Conclusion The conclusions must be based directly on the findings and data analysis presented in Chapter 4. The conclusion should: • Summarise the major findings. • Relate the findings to the research objectives. • Clearly indicate whether the research objectives have been achieved. • Avoid introducing new information that was not discussed earlier in the report. 2.13. Recommendations Provide practical recommendations based on the research findings. Recommendations should be: • Specific. • Realistic. • Relevant to the research findings. • Actionable. • Directed towards appropriate stakeholders. The combined Conclusion and Recommendations section should normally be approximately 3–5 pages, where appropriate. 6. Significance for Stakeholders Explain how the research findings may benefit relevant stakeholders. Depending on the research topic, stakeholders may include: • Employers. • Employees. • Businesses. • Customers. • Managers. • Government organisations. • Industry bodies. • Other relevant organisations or groups. The discussion should clearly explain how the research contributes to or supports these stakeholders.