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Chapter Three : Research Methodology

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Chapter Three: Research Methodology 3.1 Introduction Having recognized the theoretical framework in relation to the research purpose, the following procedure is to identify, analyze and evaluate research techniques required for data collection. In order to meet the objectives set out by this study, one must ensure that the appropriate research methods have been adopted. This chapter critically analyses the available research methods; while providing justification for the approach used in this research. The research methodology of this study will be built around Saunders et al. (2007) framework; the ‘Onion Model’ (Figure 1), which shows highlights a number of philosophical approaches. Figure 1: Saunders’ onion model of research philosophy (Source: Saunders: et al. 2009). 3.2 Research Philosophy An interpretivist research philosophy has been adopted throughout this study, as the challenges of small business remain a subjective matter, which differ from one person to another. Interpretivism draws on the importance of understanding and interpreting the participants’ actions and social world from their point of view (Bryman & Bell, 2007). This study emphasis on understanding the challenges in small business in contrast to predicting the challenges which would otherwise require a positivist stance, hence a positivist philosophy was avoided. Positivists believe that research should be undertaken in a value-free way; by simply searching for facts in order to test hypothesis

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