RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

The research process or methodology usually includes formulating and clarifying a topic,

reviewing the literature, choosing a strategy, collecting data, analyzing data and writing up

(Saunders et al., 2003). The research process is not strictly sequential in reality; the researcher

often needs to revisit each stage many times in order to refine the ideas.

Saunders, Lewis and Thorn hill (2003) define business and management research as undertaking

systematic research to find out things about business and management. Business and

management research not only should provide findings that advance knowledge and

understanding, it also should address business issues and practical managerial problems

(Saunders et al., 2003).

Thus in this chapter the research design and approach will be explained in brief and the

appropriate and the most suitable research strategy will be selected to carry out the research on

the analysis of the inventory management of the Koshi Zonal Hospital.

3.1.1 Research Model

The current research follows following research model and guidelines which form the basis for

the research methodology:

Stage 1

Research Question

Stage 2

Instrument Development

Stage 3

Data gathering

Stage 4

Analyze data

Stage 5

Disseminate

3.2 Research Design

Research design is a plan to answer the research question. A research method is a strategy used

to implement that plan. Research design and methods are different but closely related; because

good research design ensures that the data you obtain will help you answer your research

question more effectively. A research design is a framework that has been created to find

answers to research questions. The function of a research design is to ensure that the evidence

obtained enables to effectively address the research problem as unambiguously as possible.