A note on research theme formulation requirement for making an MBA dissertation proposal

A note on research theme formulation requirement for making an MBA dissertation proposal (information from perplexity.ai)

My question 1: "For MBA students making their dissertation proposals, is it important or desirable that they be clear in stating their research theme, to start with, and that their research theme is associated with the perspective of one or at most two business management subjects (or a specific topic of the subject)?"

The reply: "For MBA students making dissertation proposals, it is both important and highly desirable to clearly state their research theme at the outset. This clarity in the research theme serves as a guiding thread for the entire research process, ensuring the study is focused, specific, and manageable. Aligning the research theme with one or at most two business management subjects or a specific topic within the subject enhances relevance and academic rigor.

Importance of Clarity

A clear research theme or question is foundational for an MBA dissertation proposal. It directs the research by providing a focused and concise issue to explore, which helps maintain coherence and clarity throughout the dissertation. Clear articulation of the research theme also helps to demonstrate the significance and originality of the study, which is critical in justifying the research project’s value.

Alignment with Business Management Subjects

Choosing a research theme associated with one or at most two business management subjects ensures the study stays within a well-defined academic domain. This makes it easier to design research objectives, methodology, and to conduct a literature review relevant to those subjects. The focus on a specific area, such as marketing, finance, leadership, or strategy, helps manage the scope and enhances the contribution to existing knowledge.

Research Proposal Best Practices

• Start with a clear problem statement that is specific, relevant, and researchable.

• Ensure the research theme fits with academic goals and can be practically investigated.

• Narrow the research focus to a specific business management area or topic to avoid vagueness.

• Align research questions and objectives with the chosen theme and subjects to form a coherent plan.

In sum, clear statement and thematic focus on specific business management areas are crucial for MBA dissertation proposals to be effective and academically sound. This approach aids in research design, clarity, and the overall success of the dissertation."

My question 2: "Please provide 3 illustrative examples of such a research theme when making an MBA dissertation proposal."

The reply: "Here are three illustrative examples of clear research themes for MBA dissertation proposals, each associated with specific business management subjects or topics:

1. Benefits and Challenges of Inter-Cultural Team Working in a Virtual Environment

   • Subject: International Business / Organizational Behavior

   • Focus: Examines communication barriers, leadership challenges, and cultural synergies in virtual intercultural teams, aiming to identify how diverse teams can collaborate effectively online.

2. The Impact of Motivational Practices on Employee Performance in Software SMEs

   • Subject: Human Resource Management / Leadership

   • Focus: Investigates how different motivational methods affect individual employee performance, looking at monetary rewards, workplace relationships, employee development, and emotional support.

3. Assessing the Financial Performance and Skills Shortage in the UK Real Estate and Facilities Management Sector

   • Subject: Financial Management / Human Resource Management

   • Focus: Assesses financial ratios and company performance in the sector while exploring how skill shortages impact organizational outcomes and the role of alternative recruitment strategies.

These examples clearly state a focused research theme and align with one or two specific business management subjects or topics, making them suitable models for MBA dissertation proposals."

A collection of blog notes on using chatgpt for research purpose.