ABSTRACT
To a significant extent, success in any research project begins with a clear definition of the research problem. While this may seem self-evident, defining the research problem is often the most difficult part of the research process to execute properly. Researchers should avoid being too rigid at this early stage. A poorly defined problem results in lack of direction and purpose that may become apparent only after considerable time, effort, and money have been spent pursuing nonproductive avenues. For example, a poorly defined research problem is likely to result in an incorrectly structured field study that does not deliver the required data.
