This document discusses defining a research problem and its key components. It notes that a research problem involves an issue, objectives to achieve, alternative means of achieving the objective where there is doubt about which alternative is most efficient, and an environment where the problem exists. It provides tips for selecting a problem such as choosing a new topic, avoiding controversial or too narrow/vague problems, and considering feasibility and resources. Steps in problem definition include broadly stating the problem, conducting a pilot survey and expert interviews, redefining any ambiguities, and understanding the problem's nature. The document also includes an exercise asking to redefine sample research topics.

1. Defining Research Problem Upendra Lele January 2011

2. What is a Research problem? Components of a Research problem An individual or a group which has some issue or a problem Some objectives to be attained at Alternative means (or courses of action) to achieve the objective Existence of some doubt regarding selection of an alternative, i.e. there is difference in relative efficiency of the alternatives to achieve the objective Existence of some environment to which the problem pertains Selecting the problem Select new subject instead of one which is overdone Be careful in selecting a controversial subject Too narrow or vague problems should be avoided Subject should be familiar and feasible (within one’s reach) Consideration of time and budget constraints Availability of support from all concerned

3. Steps in problem definition Statement of the problem in a general way Pilot survey, Seek Expert opinion Assess feasibility, Remove ambiguity, redefine the problem Understanding the nature of the problem Discuss the problem with those who first raised it Literature survey Identify applicability or gaps in the existing theories Whether existing theories are inconsistent with each other References for studies on related problems Develop ideas through discussions Experience survey – discussion with experts and colleagues Rephrasing the problem Rephrase into specific operational terms Should lead to the development of working hypotheses

4. An Exercise in problem definition Redefine, if necessary and Identify the type of research problem in each of the following cases: Challenges and Problems of Transition from Unorganized to Organized Retailing What are the Salary Hikes for Professionals in Globalized Business? Claims of Automobile Owners-Revenue and Cost to Insurers Socioeconomic Profile of Shoppers Malls Patronizing & Plazas/Multiplexes Offer of Incentive Schemes As Marketing Strategy Customer Relationship Management- the future. Determining Optimal level of Inventories in Globalized Business High Manpower Turn-over - Causes and Consequences for Indian Corporates The role and impact of Franchisee Marketing. Foreign Direct Investment-Role and Impact Inter-Generation Transfer and Break-ups of Family Business Professionalization and Success of Family Business Privatization of Banks and Technological Transformation of Banking Service Impact of Income Tax Rebates and Exemptions on Household Savings Effect of House Loans on Construction Industry Availability of Finance and Consumers: Decisions to Purchase Durables. Impact of Privatization of Insurance Sector on the Business of LIC