Marketing 494-120489

Solution 1:

The steps for conducting quantitative research are:

1. Develop the research methodology: A basic methodology is essential in determining the method for that can vary as per the need
2. Developing the sampling frame: The sampling frame helps in determining what exact number of people are needed to complete the research
3. Determine the resources needed i.e. people, equipment, etc.: All the resources need to be listed and considered along with costs
4. Developing the Timeline: A timeline helps in understanding the position at which project currently is
5. Developing the budget: Budget development ensures that total cost remains within bounds
6. Conducting a pre-test before fielding the survey and revision of questionnaire if needed: A pre-test helps in error rectification and improvement of data collection process
7. Programming the computer for data entry: A computer program ensures that data entered is in order and can be easily processed.

Solution 2:

A stratified sampling technique is preferred because it offers greater precision for the same sample size taken. This leads to a reduction of costs significantly over the other techniques and makes the technique advantageous over the other techniques.

As the error is +/-5% and the confidence level is 95%

The number of the Ford users in the US in 2014 was about 15%

Sample size, n = 196.

Solution 3:

The factors involved in managing workers in the call-center:

1. Selection of field workers: Selection should be appropriate as per the needs of customer group
2. Training of field workers: Selected candidates undergo training for easily handling the operations
3. Supervise the field workers: The workers need to be supervised on the spot in case mistakes happen for more effective working
4. Validate fieldwork: The performance of each worker gets validated against a pre-set standard
5. Evaluate field workers: The workers evaluation for improvement, feedback as well as appreciation in the form of monetary and non-monetary benefit.

Solution 4:

1. ANOVA: It is used in hypothesis testing about mean of a dependent variable that is measured across different groups. It produces an F-statistic which generates a p-value. Validity is ensured when p > 0.05.
2. Stepwise regression analysis: It is used where a selection is to be made from a great number of predictor variables. The program calculates an F-to-enter value for non –existent variable and F-to-remove for the existing variables & removes them to achieve the result.
3. Stepwise Discriminant Analysis: It is used in determination of discriminatory variable in two or more than two groups that are naturally occurring. Wilks Lambda is used as a test statistic and values like between -.1 to .1.
4. Correlation Analysis: It is used to show whether the two pairs are strongly or weakly related. Again, values lie between -1 to 1. R-statistic are calculated for this purpose; and +1 signifies high correlation and -1 signifies low correlation
5. Factor Analysis: It is a tool employed in investigation of relationships between variables which are complex concepts like status of socio-economic type, usage patterns etc. The basic statistic used is the correlation coefficient and  r > 0.3 for a strong relationship
6. Cluster Analysis: This statistical technique employs identification of units which are grouped due to characteristics commonly shared. It uses the same statistic as a factor and discriminant analysis for data clustering.
7. MDS: The primary goal is detection of underlying dimensions allowing the researchers for explanation of similarities or dissimilarities which are observed in the objects under investigation. An r-square statistic is used for computation and value above 0.6 is acceptable.
8. Co-joint Analysis: It is a statistical technique applied in determination of attribution of values by people. Maximum likelihood estimation statistic is used in the range of -0.1 to 0.1.
9. MaxDiff Analysis: This approach is in general used in obtaining importance scores or the preference scores across multiple items. Here, analysis using best and worst cases using paired combinations is used
10. Sem/Path Analysis: It is a multivariate statistical analysis technique analyzing relations of structural nature between latent constructs and measured variables. It is a confirmatory technique and focuses on linear constructs and covariance among variables. Here numerical variables indicate the strength.

Solution 5:

The questionnaire is:

Questionnaire for online retailing:

1. What is your age?

• 12 to 19
• 20 to 28
• 29 to 38
• 39 and above

2. Which mode of shopping do you prefer?

• Normal standalone shops
• Shopping malls
• Online Shopping
• Other:

3. Do you buy your stuff online?

• Yes
• No

4. For how long have you known about online shopping?

• 10 and above
• 5 to 9 years
• 1 to 4 years
• Don’t know about online shopping

5. How many online stores have you visited?

• More than 6
• 3 to 5
• 1 to 3
• Never

6. Which online shopping platform do you prefer?

• Amazon
• E-bay
• walmart.com
• Costco.com
• Target.com
• Other:

7. Why do you prefer the above online store?

• Ease of using website
• Better offer
• After sales services, return policy
• Better delivery options
• Others:

8. Which product do you prefer buying online?

• Books & Stationary
• Footwear
• Mobile/ Electronic devices
• Apparels
• Personal Beauty Care
• Other

9. How many times in a week do you visit an online store?

• Everyday
• 5 to 6 times a week
• 2 to 4 times a week
• Once a week
• Not on a weekly  basis

10. Considering the ongoing trend which according to you is the biggest online store?

• Amazon
• E-bay
• walmart.com
• Costco.com
• Target.com
• Other: