Business School
Business School
BUSINESS MASTERS
DISSERTATION GUIDELINES
Revision March 2018
CONTENTS
TOC o "1-3" h z INTRODUCTION PAGEREF _Toc314491810 h 2Aim of the dissertation PAGEREF _Toc314491811 h 3Learning Outcomes PAGEREF _Toc314491812 h 3Guidelines PAGEREF _Toc314491813 h 4The Dissertation Calendar PAGEREF _Toc314491814 h 4Please see OnlineCampus syllabus for the up to date deadlines. PAGEREF _Toc314491815 h 4The Dissertation Process PAGEREF _Toc314491816 h 5Timings and Deadlines PAGEREF _Toc314491817 h 5Dissertation Proposal Form PAGEREF _Toc314491818 h 5Proposed Topic PAGEREF _Toc314491819 h 5Submitting Your Dissertation Proposal PAGEREF _Toc314491820 h 5Supervision PAGEREF _Toc314491821 h 6Dissertation Tutor PAGEREF _Toc314491822 h 6Initial Contact with Supervisor PAGEREF _Toc314491823 h 6Continuing Contact with Supervisor PAGEREF _Toc314491824 h 6Supervision Time Available to Students PAGEREF _Toc314491825 h 6The Nature of Supervision PAGEREF _Toc314491826 h 6Problems with Supervision PAGEREF _Toc314491827 h 7Selection of Topic PAGEREF _Toc314491828 h 7Changes in Topic PAGEREF _Toc314491829 h 7Originality PAGEREF _Toc314491830 h 7Dissertation Structure PAGEREF _Toc314491831 h 8Length PAGEREF _Toc314491832 h 8Structure PAGEREF _Toc314491833 h 8Preliminaries PAGEREF _Toc314491834 h 8Body of Work PAGEREF _Toc314491835 h 9End Material PAGEREF _Toc314491836 h 9Presentation PAGEREF _Toc314491837 h 10Legibility PAGEREF _Toc314491838 h 10Page Layout PAGEREF _Toc314491839 h 10Tables, charts, diagrams, photographs etc PAGEREF _Toc314491840 h 10Footnotes, Endnotes, Headers and Footers PAGEREF _Toc314491841 h 10Writing Style PAGEREF _Toc314491842 h 11Submitting Your Work PAGEREF _Toc314491843 h 11Confidentiality PAGEREF _Toc314491844 h 11Academic Misconduct - Protecting Yourself PAGEREF _Toc314491845 h 11Plagiarism PAGEREF _Toc314491846 h 12Referencing PAGEREF _Toc314491847 h 12Other Academic Misconduct PAGEREF _Toc314491848 h 13Retention of Working Papers PAGEREF _Toc314491849 h 13Assessment PAGEREF _Toc314491850 h 13Assessment Criteria PAGEREF _Toc314491851 h 14Disclosure of Marks PAGEREF _Toc314491852 h 14Failed Dissertations PAGEREF _Toc314491853 h 14Appendix A - SPECIMEN TITLE PAGE PAGEREF _Toc314491854 h 15Appendix B - SPECIMEN ABSTRACT PAGEREF _Toc314491855 h 16Appendix C - SPECIMEN DECLARATION OF AUTHENTICITY PAGEREF _Toc314491856 h 17Appendix D - SPECIMEN DISSERTATION PROPOSAL FORM PAGEREF _Toc314491857 h 18Appendix E - CRITERIA FOR ASSESSMENT PAGEREF _Toc314491858 h 19
INTRODUCTIONThese guidelines are your handbook for the module and should provide you with much of the information you need to produce your dissertation. Anything you are uncertain about, or any points of interpretation that may arise should be initially discussed with your dissertation supervisor.
Business Masters Dissertation, 60 Level 7 Credit Points
The dissertation module is the single most important module you will take for your Masters degree. Not only is it worth 60 credits, but also, as you are required to work on a topic of your choice with minimum supervision, performance in and experience gained during its completion can often prove invaluable when applying for jobs. It is therefore vital that:
You follow these guidelines, and obtain guidance from your supervisor on any points about which you are not sure.
You allocate sufficient time to complete the dissertation thoroughly - it is worth a third of your marks - you should aim to spend about 600 hours working on it.
Aim of the dissertationThis module provides an opportunity for students to use and extend the knowledge and skills that they have acquired during their programme of study. Using appropriate research methodologies and data collection methods, students will critically synthesise a body of knowledge relevant to the taught programme (Extract from Module Descriptor)
Learning OutcomesAt the end of this module, the student will be able to:
Collect, critically analyse and synthesise data and ideas.
Present findings and recommendations in writing that confirm their understanding of the subject under investigation.
Address and satisfy their specific research aims and objectives.
Engage in critical reflection on the research process and the issue(s) under investigation.
Identify both personal and professional learning and development outcomes emanating from the research process and written dissertation.
You should also be able to demonstrate
A systematic understanding of relevant knowledge about organisations, their external context and how they are managed
Application of relevant knowledge to a range of complex situations taking account of its relationship and interaction with other areas of the business or organisation
A critical awareness of current issues in business and management which is informed by leading edge research and practice in the field
An understanding of appropriate techniques sufficient to allow detailed investigation into relevant business and management issues
Creativity in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to develop and interpret knowledge in business and management
Ability to acquire and analyses data and information, to evaluate their relevance and validity, and to synthesise a range of information in the context of new situations
In your dissertation you should
Evaluate the rigour and validity of published research and assess its relevance to new situations
Extrapolate from existing research and scholarship to identify new or revised approaches to practice
Conduct research into business and management issues that requires familiarity with a range of business data, research sources and appropriate methodologies, and for such to inform the overall learning process
Communicate effectively both orally and in writing, using a range of media
GuidelinesThe dissertation is an individual piece of work, and there is no intention to unduly restrict students in their approach. In addition disciplines, even within the broad fields of Business and Management differ in their traditions.
These dissertation guidelines are therefore designed to:
Inform students, staff and external examiners.
Provide a common standard across School of Business and Enterprise Masters dissertations.
Provide appropriate flexibility between topics, approaches and disciplines
Failure to comply with these guidelines (e.g. completion of calendar tasks by the appropriate deadline) may cause the final mark to be reduced or may invalidate, delay or prevent the award of a dissertation mark.
It is the YOUR responsibility to comply with the instructions laid out in these guidelines. Any variation from these guidelines will only be valid and binding if they are committed to writing and signed by you and your Dissertation Supervisor before submission of the final work. Such amendments may also require the agreement of the Dissertations Co-ordinator, Programme Leader and/or External Examiners.
The Dissertation Calendar*****************************
The Dissertation ProcessTimings and DeadlinesWith the exception of the hand-in deadline which except in the case of previously agreed, documented Personal Extenuating Circumstances cannot be changed or re-negotiated, the other timings suggested in the calendar are for your guidance.
However if you fail to hand in a proposal form on time the allocation of a supervisor may be delayed, similarly, if you fail to meet with your supervisor before the specified date, your schedule will be put back. Missing the other suggested deadlines are clearly likely to have similarly negative consequences for the quality of your final submission. Given the importance of the dissertation module you are strongly advised to meet all of these deadlines.
Dissertation Proposal Form
The Dissertation Proposal form has three main purposes:
To provide the Dissertation Co-ordinator with information about proposed projects so that appropriate dissertation tutors may be appointed.
To help students formulate ideas about their dissertations and get them off to a quick start
To help dissertation supervisors advise on the practicality and suitability of your ideas. In this respect the dissertation proposal is a form of formative assessment, which if advice is heeded, can improve your final product.
Proposed TopicOn the Dissertation Proposal Form we are looking for a brief summary of your topic.
The topic must lie within the field of Business and/or Management and:
Be sufficiently focussed to be achievable with the time and resources available.
Be linked to the availability of information. If such information is not available then that topic is not feasible. Make sure that information which is required is likely to be available. This will involve some time in the library and for checking that outside information sources are available. We suggest that you do this very early on in the process
Submitting Your Dissertation ProposalYour Dissertation proposal must be submitted via the OnlineCampus platform.
Important:
Students who submit their proposals late will find in consequence that the allocation of their supervisor will be delayed - and that the supervisor is less likely to be the person suggested/requested.
Where proposals are submitted incomplete they will be returned. Again, this will necessarily delay the appointment of a supervisor.
The University can accept NO RESPONSIBILITY for the consequences of late or inadequately completed proposals.
SupervisionDissertation TutorDissertation tutors are appointed to supervise the process of a dissertation as much as the subject matter. Tutors cannot necessarily have specialist knowledge in all aspects of all topics, although we try to match supervisor with topic area as closely as possible and where there are a number of projects on a similar theme or area, group tutorials/supervisions may be arranged by an appropriate specialist in addition to your learning set arrangements.
Initial Contact with SupervisorIt is YOUR responsibility to make and maintain contact with your supervisor.
First contact should be made within 14 days of the allocation of a supervisor. If you have difficulty in making contact with your supervisor please email studentcare@college.ch
It is not acceptable to telephone and, upon finding the supervisor unavailable at that instant, to leave a phone number for the supervisor to make the first contact. If difficulty persists the student should speak immediately with StudentCare via LiveSupport (available via the OnlineCampus) or by email to studentcare@college.chContinuing Contact with SupervisorIf you are prudent, always ensure that at the conclusion of one tutorial, arrangements are made for the next contact.
Supervision Time Available to StudentsYou can expect 5 hours of your supervisors time, spread appropriately over the time available but be aware that they will not be able to make all of that time available in the final weeks before submission. And dont forget that your supervisor is entitled to annual leave: make arrangements accordingly. To get most benefit from supervision you should ensure that you keep in contact regularly with your tutor. The time available is limited, and you are strongly advised to prepare thoroughly for tutorials to avoid unnecessary waste of contact time.
The Nature of SupervisionThis is your dissertation, not your supervisors. Your supervisor is there to give you advice and guidance, not to tell you what to do or to write your dissertation for you. Most supervisors will look at sections of your dissertation to advise whether style and content are appropriate but you must not expects supervisors to read and comment on something as substantial as a final draft not least because the final submission would then no longer be your own work.
Problems with SupervisionProblems should be reported to the StudentCare services (by either student or tutor). Difficulties can usually be resolved informally, but in some cases a new supervisor may be allocated.
Selection of TopicResponsibility for selection of a suitable dissertation topic rests with you.
Ideas for topics may come from many sources, but your proposal for research
Must be related to subject matter relevant to business and management.
Must be achievable as a Masters dissertation within the time-frame and resources available
May be sourced from within your own work practice
Is likely to evolve as the project progresses - talk with your supervisor, but dont worry that your original submission topic will be set in stone.
Changes in TopicAlthough forward planning is essential, many good topics evolve as the project progresses. This is normal, and even to be expected. Dont worry if you feel your work is moving away from the topic you originally submitted. However the final title and topic should not be changed without the consent of your supervisor and any major change of topic (for example, to another subject area) must be made only after detailed discussions with your supervisor, and depending on the degree of deviation from the original, may require a resubmission of a proposal form.
OriginalityIt is the students responsibility to verify that the approach to the dissertation topic is original and unique. It is the students responsibility to verify that the title and the approach of the dissertation are original.
Original, in the context of a Masters dissertation, means that it is the work of the student (e.g. it is not a collaborative project with another student or the supervisor), and that where content originates elsewhere such sources are identified and properly referenced.
Originality in the context of Masters level work might include
Testing an existing theory/idea in a new/different context/location
Generating data to compare/contrast with existing work
Extending an existing study or applying several related existing ideas/theories to a problem.
The emphasis for a Masters level student must be in demonstrating mastery of existing knowledge bases. The formulation of substantially novel ideas is the basis of a PhD, not a Masters dissertation.
Just how much originality is sufficient for the dissertation must be negotiated between the supervisor and student in each case, but it is wise to check that your project, or something similar, has not been previously submitted - lists are available via the library.
Dissertation StructureThe format below is that which is considered conventional for most dissertations. Substantial deviations from this format must, if they are to be valid and binding, be committed to writing and agreed by both student and supervisor before submission of the final work. Such amendments may require the agreement of the Dissertations Co-ordinator and/or external examiners.
LengthThe expected length of the full dissertation is 15,000 words of what is called body-text, meaning the text of the dissertation not counting the abstract, list of references and/or bibliography (there is actually a technical difference between these two things noted below). The body-text does not include the abstract, bibliographic entries, figure captions, tables, lists of abbreviations, appendices or any declarations or acknowledgements. The figure of 15,000 is approximate, and students need not make exceptional accommodations to fit the dissertation precisely into 15,000 words. The guidelines state that a 10% leeway from the suggested figure will be acceptable. The University Guidelines state, The word limit is designed to protect you from attempting over-ambitious projects, not to penalise initiative, so the University denotes a fine line between prescription and recommendation. However, the Cumbria University Academic Handbook is prescriptive, as follows: where the word count exceeds 10%, the full assignment will be marked following which the appropriate penalty will be applied.
Where the word count exceeds the limit, the penalties detailed below will be applied:
0% - 10% - No penalty
Over 10% - 10 marks deducted, or pass mark awarded (whichever is the higher)
Over 30% - Mark capped at pass mark
StructureThe submitted dissertation will include 5 components:
Preliminaries
The body of work
The evaluation
End material
Mandatory records
PreliminariesTitle Page
See format shown (Appendix A).
The title should be succinct yet clearly specify the content of the dissertation. Twelve words is normally the maximum length. It should be agreed and finalised as part of the final draft. It may be different from the original proposed title, but this must be agreed with your supervisor.
Abstract
100 500 words. See format shown (Appendix B)
Acknowledgements (Optional)
The student may wish to thank those people who have been particularly helpful in the preparation of the dissertation.
Declaration of Authenticity
(See Appendix C)
Table of Contents
Glossary (optional)
If a dissertation contains unfamiliar abbreviations or technical terms it is helpful to include a glossary at this point.
Body of WorkUsually presented as a series of chapters
A conventional form, suitable for many dissertations might be:
Introduction
Aims and Objectives
Literature Review
Methodology
Results
Conclusions
Although all these elements must be present in every body of work it is not essential that they are presented either under those headings or, necessarily, in that order. It will very much depend on your subject and your approach - for example, for some topics it may be more appropriate to combine literature review and results, while for dissertations investigating how a topic might be best investigated the methodology(ies) used may also be the results!
It is important to discuss your proposed structure with your supervisor, especially if you feel the conventional approach is not appropriate.
Evaluation
You should, at some point in the work, comment on the limitations of what you have done, and, if appropriate, indicate how improvements might be achieved. This part may also include suggestions for further work, recommendations etc as appropriate to the research questions posed.
End MaterialEnd material should include:
References: Citations of specific works referred to directly in the text. Make sure you use a conventional referencing system - Harvard or British Standard for example, see the University Publication Getting it Right! viewable on the MD4801 BlackBoard page.
Bibliography: List of additional material consulted, but not directly cited in the text. Use Harvard system for this.
Appendices: (optional) charts, graphs, additional data, photographs, videos, maps, sample instruments etc which support the text, but are sufficiently marginal not to be included in the body of the work. Appendices are usually labelled alphabetically, although if there is little such material and it is all of a similar nature, it may all be included in one appendix.
PresentationLegibilityThe dissertation should be typed or word-processed. Spacing may either be set at double or one and a half line spacing. Spacing greater than double spacing is not acceptable. The body of the dissertation should be in a conventional Font (such as Arial, Times New Roman or Garamond, not a fancy font) size 12 (Most of these guidelines are written in Arial Font Size 12).
Submitted copies of the dissertation must be produced in such a manner that the text is entirely legible. This means an image suitable for good reproduction from a photocopier.
Page LayoutPages should be numbered in sequence at the bottom right hand corner, starting with and including the title page.
Margins and headings: Use substantial margin (+ 3cms). The right margin should be unjustified (left ragged), since the spacing between words used to make the right margin align often inhibits readability, while adding little aesthetically.
Tables, charts, diagrams, photographs etc
Conventionally, lists of numbers are regarded as tables, visual representations, such as charts, graphs, maps and diagrams are figures and photographs plates. Each category should be numbered separately in sequence by chapter; e.g. Table 3.1 is the first table in Chapter 3. Each figure should be accompanied by a descriptive title, which completely explains the contents of the figure, and should have reference to them in the text.
It is not acceptable to insert photocopies of tables into the body of the dissertation. Tables should be word processed into the text. Generally this also applies to diagrams - no photocopies or scans from books. There may be occasions where photocopies are appropriate - to illustrate original historical material, or advertisements under discussion in the text, for example - but the use of these should be cleared with your supervisor.
Footnotes, Endnotes, Headers and FootersThere is no definitive ruling on the use of footnotes and endnotes. In some cases use of British Standard referencing can render footnotes unnecessary, in others the Harvard system with footnotes is more appropriate (see section below on referencing). Similarly, in some disciplines footnotes/endnotes are discouraged, while in others they can form an integral and important part of the narrative. It very much depends on your discipline, your subject matter, and the presentation of the work. If you decide that footnotes/endnotes are important for your work you should discuss with your dissertation supervisor which approach is most appropriate for your discipline and topic.
Please do not include your name, file name or similar in any header or footer
Writing StyleThe level of writing must be appropriate to the level of the Masters degree. Specifically, attention should be paid to correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure and clarity of style. The acid test is that it must maintain the confidence of the reader. Sloppy presentation may well be interpreted, if only subconsciously, as indicative of sloppy research. It is your responsibility to edit the text for errors - of fact, presentation, compilation and typing. Note particularly that spellchecker programmes do not always uncover homonym usage errors, such as principal / principle, there / their, or simple typographical errors that produce valid words (eg accidentally hitting s, f, g or h instead of d when trying to write date.
In general, formal academic work is written in the third person, and first- and second person references (to I, you, we and us) are avoided. However, conventions are changing, and in some areas of some disciplines the use of the first person may be more appropriate. Seek the guidance of your Supervisor if you wish to depart from the third-person convention.
Students who wish to develop their English style and grammar may wish to make use of the support available to both domestic and international students. Contact Student Services if you want to take advantage of this support.
Submitting Your WorkSubmit the electronic copy of your dissertation via the OnlineCampus.
Breathe a sigh of relief!
THIS ELECTRONIC COPY WILL BE SUBMITTED TO PLAGIARISM DETECTION SOFTWARE. NON-SUBMISSION, OR SUBMISSION OF A CORRUPT OR BLANK FILE WILL BE REGARDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO AVOID ELECTRONIC SCRUTINY FOR PLAGIARISM AND TREATED AS ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT.
ConfidentialityConfidentiality of dissertations is regarded as an exceptional circumstance, which may arise for example, if a student is given access to commercially sensitive material. Normally use of such material in the final submission is discouraged, but in individual circumstances this may be agreed by the Dissertation Supervisor and declared by the student to reception on submission. In these circumstances both copies of confidential projects will be pulped after a mark is agreed.
Academic Misconduct - Protecting YourselfAlthough the vast majority of dissertations are completed without incident, every year there are a small number of cases subject to enquiries under the heading of Academic Misconduct. By far the most common irregularity, often inadvertent, but nevertheless potentially damaging to your academic reputation, is Plagiarism.
PlagiarismPlagiarism is the unacknowledged incorporation in a students work of material derived from the work (published or unpublished) of another. Examples of plagiarism include
The inclusion of more than a single phrase from another persons work without the use of quotation marks and acknowledgement of the source
The summarising of another persons work by simply changing a few words or altering the order of presentation without acknowledgement
The use of another persons ideas without acknowledgement.
Copying the work of another student, with or without their knowledge or agreement.
Thus, the intellectual work of others summarised in the dissertation must be attributed to its source. It is assumed that all ideas, opinions, conclusions, specific wordings, quotations, conceptual structures and data, whether reproduced exactly or in paraphrase, which are not referenced to another source are claimed as being the work of the student. If this claim is false then an act of plagiarism has occurred which may result in disciplinary action at the course or University level. This may mean that your mark is reduced - perhaps to zero, or in severe cases you may not be allowed to graduate.
It is important that the work you submit:
Is original in the context of a Masters project
Gives proper acknowledgement to any work by others which is used in completing your project
In this context originality means that the project subject is presented in a way which differs from any other:
Published works
Study guides (including handouts from lectures etc)
Projects of past or present students
This does not preclude the use of the same material from wider reading (to support it with examples, or relevant opinions and ideas, or to place it within the context of existing knowledge). In fact, credit is given for this kind of material - but it does mean that the sources of this kind of material must be identified.
ReferencingThe best defence against accusations of plagiarism is scrupulous, accurate and detailed referencing of all your sources. Two styles of referencing are in common use: the British Standard (Numeric) System and the Harvard System. Either is acceptable: your choice may be informed by the nature of your narrative, your personal preferences or the traditions of your discipline.
In particular, you must ensure that:
Words or phrases taken verbatim from published works are placed in quotation marks and the source acknowledged.
Quotations take the form of brief and relevant extracts, which only exceptionally exceed about 100 words
Where longer use of anothers work is appropriate, you summarise or paraphrase the actual words - but you must still reference the source.
Sources of ideas as well as actual words are acknowledged.
Other Academic MisconductOther, more rarely encountered, areas of academic misconduct include
Collusion - where a student submits, as entirely their own, work done in collaboration with another student.
Ghosting - where a student submits as their own work something that has been produced in whole or part by another person on their behalf.
Falsification - the invention of data, information, references, or any other work claimed to have been carried out as part of the dissertation.
Retention of Working PapersIn order to protect yourself from any accusation of Academic Misconduct you should retain all working documents e.g. notes, any photocopies of articles used, drafts etc until you have been formally notified of the award of your degree.
In rare cases the sources of information in a dissertation may not be entirely clear to the Examiner (Internal or External), or the originality or authorship of the work may be in doubt. When that occurs the student is notified by letter and asked to attend the University so clarification may be obtained. It is to your advantage to be able to easily demonstrate at such an interview the source(s) of your material. Being able to produce working papers may conveniently do this. We also reserve the right, as part of our quality assurance system, to ask a stratified sample of students to submit their working papers after projects have been submitted.
You dont need to keep every scrap of paper, but we do expect you to keep the bulk of the important working papers. For example, if youve conducted a survey or questionnaire the originals should be kept - along with names and addresses of any firms, institutions or individuals involved. Keep all computer-based material on several media CD-R/memory stick etc - not on a hard disk - hardware failure will not be accepted as an excuse for not being able to produce evidence.
If it is not possible to establish the sources of material in the dissertation the award of the degree will be delayed until the matter is resolved.
AssessmentYour Dissertation Supervisor and at least one other member of academic staff will mark the dissertation independently. They will then meet to agree an appropriate mark. If there should be an irreconcilable difference of opinion, adjudication of the mark will take place by another member of staff and/or one of the external examiners. In any case, a sample of dissertations representing the range of marks awarded are scrutinised by the external examiners.
Assessment Criteria
!!!! Caution !!!!
The Dissertation Assessment Criteria are included as Appendix E of these guidelines as an aid to students in the preparation of their work, and as a guide to markers. Experience shows that a minority of students misinterpret such marking schemes. They are not writing guides - the criteria can be met in a variety of ways.
It is not expected that any single piece of assessed work will necessarily fall into the same category in all of the areas identified, so the mark awarded will normally reflect an averaging process, where a poor performance in one area can be compensated by better performances in others. However, the areas are clearly not independent, and it is, for example, very unlikely that an answer, which shows poor clarity of expression, or that failed to address major aspects of the issues under consideration would be awarded a high mark.
Disclosure of MarksMarks awarded for dissertations are not available until AFTER the relevant Progression and Awards Board has met and approved them. Furthermore, you should note that predicting a potential mark before a dissertation is formally marked is very difficult - and tutors (including dissertation supervisors) are not allowed to do so. Please dont cause embarrassment by asking.
Every dissertation is marked twice (by the supervisor and another member of University staff). Some are marked a third (or more) time(s) either by External or Internal Examiners. The mark attached to a dissertation is a result of this complex process. It is therefore impossible, and indeed extremely foolhardy, for a supervisor to give a definitive view as to the standard a dissertation might reach. This does not, of course, preclude a supervisor giving general guidance as to the calibre of student work, but such guidance should be given and taken with due consideration to the above.
Failed DissertationsYou cannot be awarded a Masters degree if you fail the dissertation module (although, depending on your performance in other modules you may still be awarded a Post Graduate Diploma or Certificate). Unless Academic Misconduct has been demonstrated you will normally be given ONE further opportunity to re-submit a failed dissertation. The College may charge a fee for the repeat supervision being provided for the resubmission.
If this situation should arise students will be advised about their options after the Progression and Awards Board has considered the case.
Appendix A - SPECIMEN TITLE PAGE
Note: This information must fit within the outline shown so that it will be visible through the window in the front cover
NAME Thomas JONES
DEGREEMBA
SUPERVISOR Dr Helen Smith
TITLE Marketing Practices In Singapore And The UK - A Comparative Study
DATE August 2004
STUDENT no 03/123456
Project submitted in partial fulfilment
of the requirements of the
Master of Business Administration
of the
University of Cumbria
Appendix B - SPECIMEN ABSTRACTSTUDENT NAME Thomas Jones
DEGREE MBA
SUPERVISOR Dr Helen Smith
TITLE MARKETING PRACTICES IN SINGAPORE AND THE UK - A COMPARATIVE STUDY
DATE May 2007
KEYWORDS MARKETING
SINGAPORE
INDUSTRIAL-SERVICES
ABSTRACT
Marketing has always been regarded as an important activity in business organisations, however, its practices vary among different types of industry. Specifically, the marketing of industrial services has received limited attention, and is a comparatively unexplored field of research. This thesis analyses the extent to which the application of marketing techniques and practices are carried out in the plant hire industry in the United Kingdom and Singapore and their customers' perception of this approach. An attempt is also made to establish any significant differences in practices between the two countries. Accordingly, the study examines two major groups of factors. These are: First, the use of marketing principles related to the marketing mix elements, i.e. product, price, promotion and place. Second, customers' perception of this approach, as well as the decision making process as well as buying factors of customers. A thorough examination of literature pertaining to these factors has also been carried out. The empirical investigation was carried out in two stages: firstly, plant hire companies and the same number of hirers in the UK were chosen as the samples for the study. Structured questionnaires were administered to them by post. The second stage was carried out in Singapore over a period of three months, during which time plant hire companies were contacted by means of personal interviews, and hirers by telephone, both with structured questionnaires. Frequency and cross-tabulation methods were used to analyse the data collected, while presentation takes the form of tables. The findings of field research are conclusive, in spite of a number of limitations which were examined, together with proposals for further research. In general, it would appear that, apart from a few notable differences, the prevailing marketing practices within the industry in the two countries are very similar.
NB Where key words are two or more words they must be hyphenated
Abstracts are to be written in the present tense.
Appendix C - SPECIMEN DECLARATION OF AUTHENTICITYDECLARATIONS
I declare that the material contained in this project is the end result of my own work and that due acknowledgement has been given in the bibliography and references to ALL sources be they printed, electronic or personal.
And that:
The Word Count of this Project is ..
SIGNED:.
DATE: :...
Appendix D - SPECIMEN DISSERTATION PROPOSAL FORM
Business School
BUSINESS MASTERS DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
The procedure for submission of this proposal is given in the Dissertation Guidelines
Please Type in the appropriate spaces. Boxes will expand as you type.
Name Thomas Jones Student Number S0080133
Course MBA
Provisional Title of Your Dissertation.
Marketing Practices In Singapore And The UK - A Comparative Study
Describe the topic(s) or issue(s) you wish to investigate for your Dissertation.
These must relate to the subjects that comprise your programme of study, and must clearly indicate what your aims /objectives / research questions will be.
AIM - to compare marketing practices in the plant hire industry in the UK and Singapore
This project will investigate differences in the application of marketing principles in two countries - the UK and Singapore.
It will analyse the extent to which theoretical practices are followed and attempt to explain any differences found
Dissertation to be mainly concerned with industrial service sector.
The project will use the plant hire industry as a case study. The subject will be analysed from the perspective of both hirers and hireesWhat facts or information will you need to gather? How will you access these?
Current thinking on marketing practices - particularly in industry services sector - current textbooks and recent journal articles
Information on actual practices in the industry in Singapore and UK
Methodology to be developed, but likely to include questionnaire or interviews with both suppliers and hirers of industrial plant.
Analysis of visible marketing strategies, eg at trade fairs, trade journals etcPossible opportunities to conduct interviews with selected managers in both countries
Analysis likely to be largely statistical
To which subject area(s) is this proposal - in your view -most strongly related?
Marketing, Strategy, OrganisationsName any tutor(s) you think might be appropriate to supervise your dissertation.
John Doe, Dr Helen Smith.
Appendix E - CRITERIA FOR ASSESSMENTMark and Award Criteria
70 and above
Masters with Distinction Performance at Distinction level, surpasses that associated with the 6069 level in several areas, such as the following
originality in conceptual understanding; critical insight; hypotheses; use of methodology, or application of knowledge
subtlety of interpretation
power of critical analysis
critical evaluation of current research
understanding of research methodology and its implications
mastery of a significant body of data
Such work will be written and presented to high academic standards. A dissertation gaining this mark indicates very strong potential for pursuing research at doctoral level.
An outstanding dissertation, for which a mark of over 80% may be awarded is likely to include work of such a high quality that it either falls comfortably within the level of performance characteristic of a degree at a still higher level, e.g., PhD, or would merit publication in a refereed publishing venue of professional standing. Such work will be exceptionally well written and presented.
6069
Masters with Merit Performance at Merit Level, which may well include superior achievement in areas such as those designated above for the 7079 level, but which will not be as consistent, as widespread, or as fully demonstrated. Performance at this level surpasses the quality of work in the 5059 range in several areas, such as the following
information deployed (normally going beyond reliance on standard secondary sources)
clarity and coherence of argumentation
critical insight or evaluation
analytical power
control of data
Such work will be written and presented to good academic standards. A dissertation gaining this mark suggests definite possibility of pursuing research at doctoral level.
5559
Masters Pass Good Performance at Pass Level. This work will
demonstrate a good grasp of all the principal materials relevant to the subject and link them into sustained argument from premises to conclusions
have an overall structure which is logical if not fully thought through.
display evidence of analytical or critical ability in the handling of sources and evidence
be unlikely to show originality beyond that required at Masters level
be written and presented to adequate academic standards, showing no serious faults.
5054
Masters Pass Pass Performance. This work may
contain almost all the basic materials necessary for a satisfactory masters-level treatment of the topic
be limited in the way in which basic materials are marshalled effectively in terms of overall structure or sustained argument
demonstrate acquaintance with key literature but is unsophisticated in using it
be marred by easily rectifiable defects in presentation (e.g. bibliographical incompleteness or inconsistency).
MASTERS PASS CRITERIA In order to achieve a pass at Masters level the dissertation must minimally demonstrate:
Appropriate structure and presentation
That appropriate aims and objectives have been set and that the major objectives have been achieved
A clear explanation/evaluation of the project
Adequate justification of research method/approach taken
Clear evidence of theoretical understanding of course material and relevant literature
Sensible conclusions
Adequate and appropriate referencing of sources
Evidence of self learning
ALL CRITERIA FOR MARKS OF 50% AND GREATER ASSUME ACHIEVEMENT OF AND ARE RELATIVE TO THESE BASIC CRITERIA
4049
Fail Failure. This work may
present some, but not enough, material relevant to the subject
be significantly incomplete or unbalanced in judgement
fail to structure the work through argument from premises to conclusions
rely too heavily on secondary/anecdotal sources
contain partially garbled information, or present statements of opinion inadequately supported by evidence
be scrappily presented with inadequate citation.
39 and below
Serious Fail Serious Failure. This work may
display minimal knowledge of the subject
show major errors or omissions, or substantially irrelevant material
lack overall structure
be characterized by unsupported assertion rather than argumentation
lack critical appraisal of material, verging at worst on plagiarism
not acknowledge its sources adequately or use large amounts of directly quoted referenced sources
be sometimes unintelligible in expression
Robert Kennedy College
University of Cumbria
Dissertation Proposal
Digicel St. Lucia Limited
Dissertation ID:22424CRKC7030
Class #6614
August 1 2023
Supervisor
Ruth Sarah
Proposal
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TOC h u z t "Heading 1,1,Heading 2,2,Heading 3,3,"INTRODUCTION3BACKGROUND LITERATURE4AIMS AND OBJECTIVES7Aim7Objectives7Research Questions7RESEARCH METHODOLOGY7Research Type7Research Approach8Research Philosophy8Data Collection8Sampling9Data Analysis9Research Limitations9Reliability and Validity10Ethical Considerations10CHAPTER OUTLINE11TIMELINE12CONCLUSION14REFERENCES15
Chapter one guideChapter One: IntroductionIntroduction: Provide a brief introduction of the work. This should seek to identify from the outset what you are doing, why you are doing it (in terms of importance) and potential benefits (in terms of contribution). Ensure the introduction contains an overview vis a vis the country/company context can you include this and justify the research focusing on any peculiarities within the country/company setting which prompt the current researchBackground:Provide a brief outline of the main concepts you will be focusing. Identify prominent academic scholars or debates that will be the focus of later chapters.Rationale for Engaging with the ResearchWhat is the rationale for carryout the research for the industry and the country?Problem Statement What is the problem statement as it applies to the industry and the country context?1.5 Aim and Objectives: Provide one main aim, the usual practice is to revisit your project topic and then turn this into the aim using action phrases such as to explore, examine etc. Identify 3-4 research objectives, which flow from the main aim. Ensure there is a thread that flows from the topic to the aim and research questions and objectives. Also ensure that the literature review carried out supports the main aim of the project. It is better at this juncture to spend time mulling over this as it saves time and effort later on.Example Topic: A comparative analysis of the impact of gender differences on pay and career progression among male and female employees in the UK IT industry 1.5.1 Research aim: To explore the impact of gender differences on pay and career progression among male and female employees in the UK IT industry1.5.2 Research objective:To ascertain if female employees receive comparative pay and career progression compared to their male counter partsTo explore gender differences on career progression of male and female employeesTo examine which gender has better career progressTo explore if factors other than gender affect male and female career progressionTo assess strategies which can be adopted to bridge the gender gap between male and female employees1.5.3 Research Questions:Do female employees receive comparative pay and career progression compared to their male counter parts?Are there gender differences on career progression of male and female employees?If so which gender has better career progress?Are there factors other than gender, which affect male and female career progression?What can be done to bridge the gender gap between male and female employees?1.6 MethodologyProvide a brief overview of the methodological consideration of the project. Ensure you are clear about the types of research and which you are using. The type of techniques and the methods you will be adopting. Consider any ethical issues and confidentiality where primary research is used. 1.7 Project Outline: Provide a 2 line summary of the content and purpose of each chapter1.8 Conclusion: Provide a summary of the chapter (what have you covered in the chapter), introduce the next chapter.Some of the information in the proposal can be utilized in developing chapterTopic: An exploratory study of the impact of globalization on multinational telecommunications companies- Digicel St. Lucia
INTRODUCTION
Beyond borderlinesalong with transforming sectors all around worldwide, globalizationhas become a dominating factor in modern times. Such aworldwide craze had a big impact on the field of telecom, which is essential for networking as well as information. Having aparticular emphasis on Digicel, the current investigation seeks to examine the effects of globalizationon worldwide telecombusinesses (Simmons, 2023). Globalizationbrought about economic interconnection, technical development as well as free trade overthe years, encouraging multinational telecommunication companies to broaden their businesses outside countries in pursuit of emerging markets along with business possibilities. It operates in several nations as a prominent player in the communication sector and a member of the worldwide Digicel group. With its significant worldwide activity, Digicel is exposed to a wide range of opportunities and risks associated with globalization, involving increased rivalry, shifting customer tastes and the need to negotiate a variety of legislative frameworks.
Digicel is subject to a wide range of effects from globalization, including changes to its worker factors, organizationalatmosphere and efforts to expand the marketplace. Foreign wireless carriers such asDigicel must adjust the way they operate, practice and competeif they want to succeed in a further unified cost-cutting measure. Knowing how globalizationaffects the telecoms sector and the way organizationsincluding Digicel adjust to such rapid shifts, requires a thorough analysis of the implications and modifications. It uses qualitative techniques to get a thorough grasp of the intricacies and subtleties in which globalization affects the company's activities and its wider commercial climate (Soyer, 2019). The investigation involves approaches like focus teams, questionnaires, along with literature studies to look at how well the organization can adjust to the benefits and problems that come with globalization. The results of the investigation help shareholders and individuals by providing useful information to the academic community and the telecoms sector. The firm may enhance its rivalry position, hone its plans and thrive on long-term success. The paper examines how international telecommunication businesses and globalization interact, using Digicelto serve as an engaging scenario.
Digicela well-known corporation in the telecommuting sector serves as such abusiness. Due to it operates in various countries; Digicel possesses both opportunities and challenges as a result of globalization.
BACKGROUND LITERATURE
According to the views of Soroui (2021), globalizationproved to be a powerful driver for change in this century, having a significant impact on international wireless carriers all around the globe. Digicel is a Caribbean based telecommunications and audiovisual equipment company; operating in 25 countries throughout the world. It gives wide-ranging items and offerings, including streaming media, broadband connectivity, phone and telephone interactions, and online databases. It offersclient service via a variety of mediums, guaranteeing continuous communication and meeting client requirements in the area. The company has increased their activities above national lines, in search of novel marketplaces and business possibilities as a result of the expanding economic interdependence, technological development, and trade liberalization. Andreev, Zinkina and Petrovskaya (2022) the firm should alter its overall business plan, operations, and market tactics in response to escalating competition, shifting consumer preferences, and its requirement to conduct business in a variety of legal contexts. The current study intends to investigate how Digicelsprocedures, efficiency and general business environment have been impacted by globalization. The study will throw insight into the business's adaptability to worldwide developments. Further, Qin, et. al, (2023) depicted the significance of innovation in its development, the impact upon the region's staff, as well as the measures used to preserve rivalry in a globe that is becoming more linked by performing a thorough examination. Knowing all of this provides insightful information to academics and the telecoms sector, assisting investors in making choices that can assist them toprosper in the globalizationage. Using the hyperglobalism theory, the complicated phenomena of globalizationaremade clear. According to this perspective, borders will disappear as a result of economic integration and advances in technology. It highlights the rise of multinational enterprises and international organizationsand predicts a world society based on common principles and commerce. This perspective emphasizeshow state authority is eroding as a result of growing connections and promotes an ideal of continuous international contacts that transform societies' economies, societies, and political systems. Even if this viewpoint is important, it must be balanced with others, taking into account the continuous importance of public interests along with the complex interactions of the factors that shape the linked global.
Schmalz (2021) assessed that companies operating in telecommunication sector have been dramatically altered by globalization, which has also influenced its strategy and internal processes. To stay cutting-edge and take advantage of possibilities, firms with operations in several nations, needed to adjust to an increasingly linked world economy. A modification of the organization's logistics and purchasing procedures, serves as one of the noticeable effects of globalization on its business activities. To secure an ongoing source of items and amenities, it was able to streamline its buying procedures, looking for affordable alternatives and working with vendors from various geographical areas. The speed of technical development increased due to globalization, forcing Digicel to make investments in modern technology to compete in the market. AlHamad, et. al, (2022) stated that the corporation's development into new nations has been fueled by globalization, demanding market study as well as legal and societal adaption. To gain a foothold in such areas, coordinated efforts were developed. A global staff necessitates an inner emphasis on encouraging mutual respect and comprehension. According to the transformational theory viewpoint sheds light on the complex topic of globalization. It emphasizes the importance of organizations in influencing world events as acknowledging both economical as well as change in culture. It acknowledges that although there are shifts in every community as a result of globalization, they remain all the same. Rather, local settings and systems of power have an impact on them. This perspective thought emphasizes the intricate interaction across international pressures along with national reactionsand stresses the significance of flexible systems. In addition to acknowledging the power of different parties in affecting its effects, it provides a comprehensive view regarding the way globalization alters economies, customs, or governing organizations.
Hajar et. al, (2022) investigated in their study that the rise of the Digicel business and foray into international foreign markets were significantly influenced by globalization. The Company took chances provided by globalization to broaden its scope as well as enter novel sectors to become a global telecom provider. Accessibility to a larger client base was among the primary means that globalization influenced its' market expansion. Sawhney (2019) found in their study that the development of computer technology and the connectivity of markets contributed to the business's capacity to communicate with prospective clients in many places. Despite it, the firms became able to provide its offerings outside of its hometown and in uncharted areas with great development possibilities. The company's growth into newly developed nations was made easier by globalizations favorable trading and investing regulations (van Kessel, et.al, 2022). The items it offers are being improved because of targeted expenditures in popular sectors and the incorporation of international techniques for luring customers and fostering devotion in emerging economies. However, on the critical note, Ramazanov et. al, (2021) said that globalization brought about difficulties, though, like heightened rivalry between domestic as well as foreign competitors. To be successful in such sectors, companies need to make focus on creating cutting-edge campaigns and modify its cost structure and advertising tactics to fit the unique characteristics ofevery marketplace. By focusing on the skepticalmodel viewpoint is used to examine the diverse issue of globalization. This aspect perspective opposes the idea of a totally linked worldwide and raises issues about the scope of barrier fusion. It emphasizes the ongoing importance of national benefits along with sovereign rights within the context of international contacts. Although economic linkages are growing, societal as well aspolitical variables still affect the world, according to critics. This viewpoint offers an important contrast to unduly pessimistic opinions regarding globalization by pointing people that governments remain in power as well as the effects of international cooperation may not be constant but instead dependent on different circumstances.
Tang et.al, (2020) studied that the organizations' business climate and workforce have had substantial effects from globalization about both possibilities and difficulties. Due to the interconnectivity of industries and the variety of countries it services, firms which function in a globalizedenvironment have experienced changes in workers as well as organizationalnorms. As per the views of Ahmedov (2020) the development of distinct cultures inside the firm represents one of the benefits of globalizationfor the work environment. The firmutilizesa varied staff from a range of traditions, linguistic experiences and nationalities due to its activities throughout several nations. The workplace atmosphere can be improved by this variety, which may encourage inventiveness, originality and a wider viewpoint. Nevertheless, Andreev, Zinkina and Petrovskaya (2022) argued that maintaining a multicultural staff may be difficult. For maintaining a pleasant welcoming workplace environment, competent interpersonal skills and awareness instruction are necessary. Disparate social standards and ways of speaking might result in errors or confusion. Makris (2019) entailed in their study that possibilities for upward mobility as well as job progressionhave also been made possible by globalization. A worker's knowledge base and adaptability might be improved by the opportunity to participate in worldwide tasks, engage with coworkers from various locations, and become exposed to various corporate procedures. Conversely,Massaro, et. al, (2021) criticized that greater job rivalry might be one of the effects of globalizationon staff members, particularly when a firm looks to acquire expertise worldwide. Workers might feel obligated to adjust to evolving customer requirements, necessitating ongoing education and abilitydevelopment to be competitive in the fast-paced telecom sector. According to the AlHamad, et. al, (2022) Marxism theory, globalization is a result of industrialist interests and sustains existing economic disparities. In this situation, MNCs undermine regional industries bymaximizing profits by taking advantage of the inexpensive labor in emerging countries. Due to the concentration of power and riches brought about by monopolies, equal competition is hampered. International markets' support for the commercialization of commodities and services ensures that social inequality and class conflict will continue. This theory argues that in order to secure a fair allocation of resources, eliminate theabuse of workers, and promote true competitiveness that prioritizes human necessities instead of profit motivations, a socialist reconstruction of the world's economy is required.
In accordance with Qin et. al, (2023), companies within telecommunication sector may carry out survey results, customizegoods, and make investments in technological advances to increase adaptability and competition. A company must form advantageous relationships with regional stakeholders in selected areas, use their knowledge and connections, to hasten market entrance and promote development. Along with this, AlHamad, et. al, (2022) mentioned in their study that the company'sdevelopment can be fueled by maintaining a talented staff via ongoing training as well as promoting a climate of creativity. Effective consumerinteractions originate from placing a high priority on client happiness and participation via personalizingoperations and responding to input. Author assessed in their study that financial technology, electronic media and other similar industries may be diversified to increase earnings and resiliency. Hajar et.al, (2022) presented that companies must fund social responsibility as well as renewable energy projects that are compatible with regional principles to improve its image. Market agility requires quick decisions and simplified processes. Clients are attracted and kept through aggressive, adaptable costs and routine evaluations. Maintaining an unfair edge requires ongoing analysis of world events and information. By putting these rules into practice, the organization can compete more effectively in an ever-evolving globe.AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
Aim-
The purpose of this investigation is to learn more about how globalizationhas affected the international telecomgiant Digicel St. Lucia Ltd.
Objectives-
To study the concept and factors which led to globalization. To evaluate opportunities and challenges associated with globalization.
To study the impact of globalization on sales and competitiveness of Digicel.
To recommend competent strategies to Digicel for attaining success in the globalized business arena.
Research Questions
By taking into account above aim and objectives following questions have been drafted:
Q.1 Which factors led trends pertaining to globalization?Q.2 What are the opportunities and challenges facing by Digicel in globalized environment?
Q.3 What is the extent to which globalization impacts performance of Digicel?
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Type
Analyzingemotions, beliefs, and perspectives is the main objective, frequently via interviewing and observing. The plan uses aqualitative methodology, including surveys; focus groups and literature analytics for comprehensiveknowledge, to examine the effects of globalizationon Digicel Crow (2022). It intends to investigate the intricate and subtle facets of how globalizationhas affected Digicel's company procedures, market expansion, business environment and staff.
Research Approach
To investigate and comprehend the effects of globalization on worldwide telecommunication firms, with an emphasis on the firm, an Inductive methodology will be used (Maarouf, 2019). It enables the researcher to gather and examine information from a variety of sources like questionnaires, interviews, as well as findings, without enforcing any prior assumptions or preconceptions. The study seeks to get a thorough and objective knowledge of the way globalization affects Digicel's activities, market development, corporate atmosphere, and rivalry in an international telecoms environment. This is accomplished by permitting concepts and trends that naturally arise from the information.
Research Philosophy
In the current research, to address research aim and objectives interpretivism philosophy will be followed (Tamminen, 2020). The plan incorporates qualitative technique such as survey to examine various points of view and observations to investigate the effects of globalization on Digicel.
Data Collection
For assessing the impact of globalization on Digicel, both primary and secondary data collection tool will be considered (Lobe, 2020). Survey will be conducted on the Executives of Digicel to gather primary data in line with the research objectives. With the aid of a survey research questions will be addressed. Along with this, periodicals, books, as well as academic publications referred to the topic will also be estimated for mountingshort-lived thesis in LR section.
Sampling
In primary research, sample selection is highly required to conduct study in the best possible way (Berndt, 2020). A selection of respondents from a group ischosen randomly, by using simple random sampling, a sort of statistical sampling. In the context of current research, 20 employees of Digicel will be chosen for the survey by utilizing a simple random sampling method. It provides objective and trustworthy information collecting for the investigation of the effects of globalizationon the telecoms sector.
Data Analysis
To evaluate and find trends, concepts, and similarities in qualitative information acquired from surveys, focus teams, as well as additional reports, a thematic approach will be employed throughout this study (Hariri, 2019). Through methodically organizingand analyzingthe information according to recurrent themes as well as theories, helps in the exploration of the effects of globalizationon Digicelalong with international telecommunication firms.
Research Limitations
Lack of financial resources can result in research difficulties in this investigation, restricting the extent of collecting information and evaluation (Ross, 2019). Time restrictions might influence the breadth of the investigation, as well as accessibility to pertinent corporate data could prove limited, which would have affected the conclusions' accuracy.
Reliability and Validity
Information is being gathered from reliable and trustworthy sources to increase dependability (Fuller, et.al, 2020). To deliver timely as well as reliable outcomes, reliability may be preserved by the adoption of the most current study methodology, the incorporation of appropriate terminology, along with the utilization of severe ways to analyze information.
Ethical Considerations
Concerns with ethics shall take precedence when citing any sources of information in the current investigation on the consequences of globalizationin international telecom businesses, particularly Digicel (Suri, 2020). It is done to recognizeefforts and safeguard proprietary information. Specific security guidelines are being observed, protecting delicate data along with the identity of respondents.
CHAPTER OUTLINE
Chapter 1: Introduction
The investigation ofthe effects of globalizationon foreign telecom businesses is introduced in that section, having an eye onDigicel. It draws attention to the supremacy of globalization, its bearing on telecom companies, as well as the possibilities and problems it presents. Despite Digicel serving provided the basis for examination, the aims, qualitative evaluation strategy, and importance of the analysis are described.
Chapter 2: Literature review
It focuses on Digicelas it examines the effects of globalizationon worldwide telecommunication firms. It talks of the way the sector has changed as a result of globalization, including how corporate plans, expanding markets, and employee relations have changed. The part further discusses the potential problems brought on by globalizationand lays the groundwork for a probing investigation.
Chapter 3: Research methodology
The intentions and goals of the in-depth investigation ofthe effects of globalizationon worldwide telecoms corporation Digicelare described. The goalsfor the project involve examining its activities, investigating market expansion, identifying effects on the company culture and workforce, and offering helpful advice to improve adaptability and rivalry. The targets centeron comprehending the ways globalizationimpacts Digicel. Its inquiries look specifically at Digicel's adjustments, the growth of the sector, worker views, and maximizingthe possibilities while limiting them posed by globalization. Third chapter presents methods which will be helpful in dealing with concerned problem.
Chapter 4: Data Analysis & Findings
It is highly significant as it contains outcome of the research problem or issues. Several themes will be added along with the graphs and tables to develop better understanding about findings.
Chapter 5: Conclusion & Recommendations
Final chapter of dissertation concludes findings about the extent to which globalization has an impact on the performances of Digicel. It also presents strategies which will help Digicel in meeting business goals.
TIMELINE
Actions / Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Outlining main points Drafting aims and objectives Assessment of secondary sources Selection of research methods Questionnaire designing Data gathering via survey Data structuring and analysis Concluding findings and recommending Doing formatting Taking feedback from a tutor Doing changes and final submission
CONCLUSION
The purpose of the researchintends to carry out a scoping investigation on the effects of globalizationon major telecom businesses, with a particular emphasis on Digicel. Globally, multinational networks are being impacted by globalization, which has already shown to be a potent changer. As a major participant in the field of telecommuting, firms had to deal with both benefits and problems imposed by globalization. The proposal's goals include determining the extent to which globalization has impacted the organization's activities and business practices. Investigating the way it may have impacted the business's expansion and entrance into new countries. Assessing the effects of the firm's culture and workforce and providing useful advice to help it become more adaptable and a threat despite ongoing globalization trends.
Utilizingquestionnaires, and empirical study, the method used for qualitative studies provides adeep understanding ofwhy Digicel is affected by globalization. The problem of reliability is going to be tackled concerning constraints on time, money and information availability. Privacy, open communication, and values of ethics are given top priority. Its results should give insight into the way the company's commercial strategy, competition, corporate atmosphere, and employee demographics have changed as a result of globalization. The knowledge acquired may prove helpful for scholars, telecom firms, as well as shareholders looking to prosper in the stage of evolving. Acknowledging the effects of transformationwill help Digicel make tactical adjustments, improve activities, andpromote an equitable and welcoming work culturewhile maintaining its lead in the quickly changing worldwide telecommunications market. Its suggestions can help Digicel take advantage of possibilities associated withglobalizationand navigate obstacles to guarantee sustained development and accomplishment within an ever-more-connected world.
REFERENCES
Books and Journals
Ahmedov, I., 2020. The impact of digital economy on international trade.European Journal of Business and Management Research,5(4).
AlHamad, A., Alshurideh, M., Alomari, K., Kurdi, B., Alzoubi, H., Hamouche, S. and Al-Hawary, S., 2022. The effect of electronic human resources management on organizational health of telecommuni-cations companies in Jordan.International Journal of Data and Network Science,6(2), pp.429-438.
Andreev, A.I., Zinkina, J.V. and Petrovskaya, I.G., 2022. Globalization Impact on Project Management.Journal of Globalization Studies,13(1), pp.60-72.
Berndt, A.E., 2020. Sampling methods.Journal of Human Lactation,36(2), pp.224-226.
Crow, Y.J. and Stetson, D.B., 2022. The type I interferonopathies: 10 years on.Nature Reviews Immunology,22(8), pp.471-483.
Fuller, D., Colwell, E., Low, J., Orychock, K., Tobin, M.A., Simango, B., Buote, R., Van Heerden, D., Luan, H., Cullen, K. and Slade, L., 2020. Reliability and validity of commercially available wearable devices for measuring steps, energy expenditure, and heart rate: systematic review.JMIR mHealth and uHealth,8(9), p.e18694.
Hajar, M.A., Alkahtani, A.A., Ibrahim, D.N., Al-Sharafi, M.A., Alkawsi, G., Iahad, N.A., Darun, M.R. and Tiong, S.K., 2022. The effect of value innovation in the superior performance and sustainable growth of telecommunications sector: Mediation effect of customer satisfaction and loyalty.Sustainability,14(10), p.6342.
Hariri, R.H., Fredericks, E.M. and Bowers, K.M., 2019. Uncertainty in big data analytics: survey, opportunities, and challenges.Journal of Big Data,6(1), pp.1-16.
Lobe, B., Morgan, D. and Hoffman, K.A., 2020. Qualitative data collection in an era of social distancing.International journal of qualitative methods,19, p.1609406920937875.
Maarouf, H., 2019. Pragmatism as a supportive paradigm for the mixed research approach: Conceptualizing the ontological, epistemological, and axiological stances of pragmatism.International Business Research,12(9), pp.1-12.
Makris, D., Hansen, Z.N.L. and Khan, O., 2019, April. Adapting to supply chain 4.0: an explorative study of multinational companies. In Supply Chain Forum: An International Journal (Vol. 20, No. 2, pp. 116-131). Taylor & Francis.
Massaro, M., Secinaro, S., Dal Mas, F., Brescia, V. and Calandra, D., 2021. Industry 4.0 and circular economy: An exploratory analysis of academic and practitioners' perspectives. Business Strategy and the Environment, 30(2), pp.1213-1231.
Qin, Y., Wang, X., Xu, Z. and Skare, M., 2023. The effects of globalization on family firms' business model in Europe.International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research,29(1), pp.27-48.
Ramazanov, I.A., Panasenko, S.V., Cheglov, V.P., Krasilnikova, E.A.E. and Nikishin, A.F., 2021. Retail transformation under the influence of digitalisation and technology development in the context of globalisation.Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity,7(1), p.49.
Ross, P.T. and Bibler Zaidi, N.L., 2019. Limited by our limitations.Perspectives on medical education,8, pp.261-264.
Sawhney, H., 2019. Global economy and international telecommunications networks.Global Communication: A Multicultural Perspective, p.21.
Schmalz, U., Paul, A. and Gissibl, V., 2021. An explorative study of corporate travellers perception at a German airport. Journal of Air Transport Management, 92, p.102040.
Simmons, A. and Simmons, A.A., 2023. Capacity-Building at the International Level: Stories from the Field. In Building Institutions for Resilience: Combatting Climate Change (pp. 115-166). Cham: Springer International Publishing.
Soroui, S.T., 2021. Understanding the drivers and implications of remote work from the local perspective: An exploratory study into the dis/reembedding dynamics. Technology in Society, 64, p.101328.
Soyer, B. and Tettenborn, A. eds., 2019. New technologies, artificial intelligence and shipping law in the 21st century. Taylor & Francis.
Suri, H., 2020. Ethical considerations of conducting systematic reviews in educational research.Systematic reviews in educational research: Methodology, perspectives and application, pp.41-54.
Tamminen, K.A. and Poucher, Z.A., 2020. Research philosophies. InThe Routledge international encyclopedia of sport and exercise psychology(pp. 535-549). Routledge.
Tang, S., Wang, Z., Yang, G. and Tang, W., 2020. What are the implications of globalization on sustainability?A comprehensive study.Sustainability,12(8), p.3411.
van Kessel, R., Wong, B.L.H., Rubini, I., ONuallain, E. and Czabanowska, K., 2022. Is Europe prepared to go digital? making the case for developing digital capacity: An exploratory analysis of Eurostat survey data. PLOS Digital Health, 1(2), p.e0000013.