ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the meaning of research, how it contributes to theory and practice, why is research done and what is good research. It examines the fundamental standpoint that research aims at the creation and development of knowledge. The aim of this chapter is to establish a context for the theme of the book through discussions of what is meant by research and what is the area of operations management (OM), as well as what qualifies as good research. The chapter deals with fundamentals of research concepts and philosophies addressing mainly the potential, new or early-stage researcher. As such it is an introduction to research and to how to do research. However, the concerns of experienced researchers and professionals are also addressed in relation to the contributions of research and how quality is assessed.
