Open AccessSources of Research Topic Generation: Lessons From Proficient Researchers of Business Management Disciplines
Author(s) -
Adrian France
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
electronic journal of business research methods
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.181
H-Index - 23
ISSN - 1477-7029
DOI - 10.34190/jbrm.17.2.03
Subject(s) - process (computing) , outcome (game theory) , work (physics) , engineering ethics , knowledge management , psychology , public relations , sociology , computer science , political science , engineering , mechanical engineering , mathematics , mathematical economics , operating system
Abstract: Journal publications are an output of researchthough there is little research into the process that led to theoutcome and the lack of discussion and debate surrounding theprocess leads to an allure of mysticism. This paper studies thenorms of research through investigating how successful businessresearchers choose their research topics. In‑depth semi‑structuredinterviews were conducted with business researchers. Generatingtopic ideas by successful researchers were separated into twogeneral sources: ‘Professional Capacity’ and ‘IndividualMotivators’. The main Professional Capacity sources were studentsand previous research. These Professional Capacity sources can beused by an established researcher. The most valuable IndividualMotivator is to read. Researchers also revealed that they chosetopics they found intrinsically interesting rather than topics thatwould necessary have a significant impact on the literature. Toachieve research and publication success, it is important to makeresearch part of your routine and read, attend conferences, submityour work for review, and persevere.