Research methodology is a scientific and logical technique that helps you decide on

an appropriate research method to collect data. When you start your research, the first
question that hits your mind is “What type of research do I need to meet my research
objectives?” Selecting a research methodology is one of the most critical factors that
can make or break your research project. Following are the factors to be considered
while deciding your research methodology:  

Research Goal

Think of your research goals. Consider what your research project wants to
accomplish which will help you to decide the research design. Do you need to find out
all the information at one fell swoop, or you want to conduct follow-up research? If
you have an outline of the information that you need at the end of the research project,
you will be able to use the right methodology to choose the right research method.  

Statistical significance

Another essential factor to consider while choosing the research methodology is

statistical results. If you need clear and highly data-driven research results or
statistical answers, you will need quantitative data. However, if your research
questions are based on the understanding of reasons, opinions, perceptions and
motivations, your data will be less statistical and more thematic.

Quantitative vs qualitative data

Your research methodology will decide whether you need qualitative or quantitative
or both methods. If you want to capture insights into a problem to develop ideas for a
solution, you will use qualitative data. You will use qualitative tools such as open-
ended interviews to collect data from the target audience. However, if you have any
questions, quantitative tools such as surveys can be the best approach to achieve
desired results.

Sample size

While considering a research methodology, the sample size is an important

consideration. How big does your sample size need to be to determine answers to
research questions and meet research objectives? Will you prefer surveying 50 or
1000 people. If you need a large sample size, you do not need time-consuming
methods such as face-to-face interviews.

 
Timing

The availability of time is another crucial factor that comes into play at the time of
deciding on research methodology. If you need results within the research frame, you
might consider using tools and techniques that allow data collection in just a few
days. For instance, random or convenience sampling can be your preferred data
collection technique. However, if your prescribed data collection period is relatively
long, you can organise in-person interviews with your samples.  

All in all, choosing the right research methodology is quintessential for any research
in any subject domain.