Quantitative research involves gathering data for a research project using analytical, mathematical, statistical and computational methods. Quantitative research is considered more valuable and accurate when compared to qualitative research. This research method is ideal for projects where the anomalies need to be measured. Also, the outcome of this research is projectable to the rest of the population. With quantitative research, you can connect the relationship between a problem and its cause. And if you have already identified the problem, it is possible to pin-point the factors associated with the problem. With measurable numbers, it is possible for the researcher to prove the correctness of a hypothesis in marketing, psychology and sociology.
Unlike qualitative research, quantitative research is geared to finding the facts before using them to produce results that are scientific based.
The benefits
There are many benefits that come with quantitative research. This includes:
- Raises company’s self esteem. When doing quantitative research, you will handle computations and complex data analysis that makes the process priceless. When a company uses this research method, it will reflect their great values and esteem. This makes customers trust their services.
- Faster data collection. Data collection in quantitative research is done in real time to allow for immediate processing. This saves a lot of time and money as the researcher will not spend a lot of time on the ground. However, the researcher just needs to prepare questionnaires, budget and have a target group before beginning the process of collecting data.
- You can use random models. Quantitative research uses randomized styles when collecting data. This eliminates the aspect of favoritism and segregation and these results in a more accurate picture of how things are on the ground. Also a randomized model gives assurance that the information gathered reflects the opinion of the rest of the population.
- Repeatable procedure. The result of a quantitative research remains the same even when the procedure is repeated and this gives validity to the facts gathered. Also, the data collected is trustworthy and thus, can help the management make an informed decision on different matters in an organization.
Conclusion
Quantitative research enables a researcher to find accurate information on the ground. This is because the respondents are promised that their feedback will not affect them in the future. As a result, people will be willing to provide authentic opinions. Although quantitative research is tricky to do, it gives high-quality data that will help make better decisions for your business.