Introduction
Research is a process where the problem definition, methodology, and solution are the major components that cannot be ignored. To solve the problem of drug use among Boston’s students, the field study group of Harvard Business School chose the focus group method as the best compromise due to the inappropriateness of other options. In this paper, the Boston Fights Drugs case will be analyzed in terms of the research problem, objectives, and a corresponding management decision to understand if the chosen methods were appropriate.
Methods Analysis
The problem of the case under analysis is that the population of Boston is challenged by the access to illicit drugs. A research objective is to identify factors that may influence the decision of school-goers to use drugs. Despite the already taken steps of enforcement and education, Boston’s mass media resources have to be involved in producing commercials and informing people. A managerial decision to create a communication program on the basis of analyzing and interpreting data was made by Sullivan and Zegans to decrease drug demand.
To create an effective solution to the problem, it is important to gather enough information and opinions. Among the existing qualitative and quantitative methods, the focus group method was offered. This alternative was more appropriate than surveys (subjectivity) or interviews (time-consuming) for this task. Its pros were the possibility to obtain detailed information about participants, save money, and promote insightful discussion about the topic. The major con discovered at the end of the study was the fact that not much new data was actually added to existing knowledge. The absence of financial backup and time resulted in poor outcomes and the inability to continue the study at the necessary level.
Conclusion
Regarding the fact that this project had the research objective (to understand the factors) and the decision (to decrease drug use), a mixed research methodology may be recommended. Direct communication with participants and questionnaires would help to combine qualitative and quantitative facts and create a solid background for the creation of new programs and steps.