Learn the major types of research—Basic Research and Applied Research—in Business Research Methods for BITM, BBA, and BBS courses in Nepal. Understand definitions, characteristics, differences, and real-world examples.
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Research plays a critical role in solving business problems, generating new insights, and expanding academic knowledge. For students of Business Research Methods in BITM, BBA, and BBS programs in Nepal, understanding the types of research is essential for preparing high-quality assignments, reports, and exam answers.
Research is a systematic and organized process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information in order to increase understanding, solve problems, or discover new facts.
Types of Research includes:
- Basic or Fundamental Research
- Applied or Action Research
1.) Basic Research:
Basic research is conducted to gain a deeper understanding of fundamental principles and theories without any immediate practical application in mind. The main goal is to expand knowledge.
- It is also know as Pure or Fundamental Research.
Key Characteristics:
- Theoretical in nature.
- Seeks to generate new ideas, theories, or principles
- Not immediately applicable to real-world issues.
- Helps build a foundation for future applied research.
- Helps to understand the problems in depth.
- Develops various alternative solutions of various problems.
Examples:
- Studying consumer behavior theories
- Exploring how memory influences decision-making
- Researching leadership psychology models
- Understanding how organizational culture impacts motivation
Advantages:
- Leads to the development of new theories
- Enhances scientific knowledge base
- Helps in educational development
2.) Applied Research:
Applied research is conducted to solve specific, practical problems using scientific methods. It is focused on real-world applications.
Key Characteristics:
- Practical in nature
- Directly applicable in business, industry, education, and government
- Problem-oriented and solution-driven
- Often conducted in industries, businesses, and organizations
- Bridges the gap between theory and practice
- Helps in decision-making and organizational problem-solving
Examples:
- Finding ways to reduce employee turnover
- Identifying why sales are declining in a specific region
- Improving customer satisfaction using surveys and analytics
- Developing marketing strategies based on consumer data
Advantages:
- Directly benefits society
- Solves immediate issues
- Promotes innovation and development
- Encourages partnerships between industry and academia
Comparison Table: Pure vs. Applied Research:
| Basis of Comparison | Basic Research | Applied Research |
|---|---|---|
| Objective | Develop theories and expand knowledge | Solve practical problems |
| Nature | Theoretical | Practical |
| Application | Not immediately useful | Directly applicable |
| Focus | Understanding “why” | Understanding “how” |
| Outcome | New principles and laws | Actionable strategies |
| Common Setting | Academic institutions | Business & industry |
This distinction is often tested in BITM, BBA, and BBS exams, making it crucial for students to clearly differentiate between the two.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of research—Basic Research and Applied Research—is essential for building a strong academic foundation in Business Research Methods. Basic research helps expand knowledge and develop theories, while applied research focuses on solving real-world business problems.
For students in BITM, BBA, and BBS courses in Nepal, mastering these research types will improve your project quality, enhance your analytical skills, and strengthen your academic performance.
If you’re preparing for exams or writing a research proposal, use these insights to craft clear, professional, and academically strong answers.
FAQs
1. What is the main difference between basic and applied research?
Basic research aims to generate new knowledge, while applied research focuses on solving specific practical problems.
2. Which type of research is used in business organizations?
Applied research, because it provides actionable solutions for decision-making and problem-solving.
3. Is action research the same as applied research?
Yes. Action research is a form of applied research conducted to solve immediate organizational issues.
4. Why is basic research important if it has no direct applications?
It builds theoretical foundations that guide future applied studies and innovations.
5. Which research type is more common in academic institutions?
Basic research, as it focuses on theory development and expanding the knowledge base.