ABSTRACT
The research process begins with a definition of the research problem. A research problem may be viewed as a situation when something needs to be corrected, such as regaining lost market share. Research problems may also represent opportunities to improve, such as searching for new ideas to maintain or increase a competitive market position. Students of business research often need to identify research topics to complete a thesis or dissertation. Methods for identifying and selecting a quality topic are described. The role of research questions and theory is summarized, and an overview of the nature and relevance of a literature review is described. A process for planning and conducting a literature review, including major sources, is summarized.
