Reference no: EM133855490

Discussion Post: Progress and Barriers in the Dissertation Process

The dissertation process has progressed significantly, particularly in the development of a clear research focus and research questions that align with the CDS Dissertation Guide. The study examines the challenges faced by small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing on startup activities, business operations, processes, and financial management. Through an extensive review of the literature, the study identifies key factors affecting SMEs, such as limited access to resources, financial constraints, and strategic planning deficiencies (Wiklund & Shepherd, 2023). This research seeks to bridge gaps in the literature by integrating multiple perspectives on the operational and financial sustainability of SMEs.

A significant achievement in the dissertation process has been refining the theoretical framework, which incorporates Resource-Based Theory (RBT), Dynamic Capabilities Theory, and Contingency Theory. This framework provides a structured lens for examining how SMEs navigate market uncertainties, financial management challenges, and strategic decision-making (Barney, 2024; Eisenhardt & Martin, 2023). Additionally, progress has been made in reviewing recent University of Phoenix dissertations to ensure that the research questions and methodological approach align with academic standards.

However, barriers remain in certain areas. One primary challenge has been ensuring that research questions meet the precise expectations outlined in the CDS Dissertation Guide. The research questions must be clearly aligned with the chosen research method and design while remaining specific, measurable, and feasible. Developing well-structured research questions that facilitate empirical investigation has required multiple revisions. Another challenge has been identifying reliable data sources for SMEs, as financial and operational data can be limited or proprietary. To mitigate this, strategies such as surveying SME owners, leveraging secondary data sources, and utilizing financial performance reports are being explored.

Alignment of Research Questions with CDS Dissertation Guide Requirements

The CDS Dissertation Guide provides explicit guidelines for crafting research questions based on the chosen research method and design. The research questions in this study adhere to these guidelines through:

The research questions directly address the core areas of SME success and failure, including startup management, operational efficiency, financial resilience, and strategic decision-making. By integrating multiple factors affecting SMEs, the study contributes to a holistic understanding of business sustainability.

I. Methodological Consistency

1) The study employs a quantitative correlational research design, making it necessary for research questions to be structured around measurable variables and relationships.

II. Example Research Questions:

1) To what extent do financial management practices impact SME survival rates?

2) How do market dynamics influence the strategic decision-making of SMEs?

3) What is the relationship between operational efficiency and SME profitability?

4) These questions facilitate statistical analysis and align with best practices for quantitative research (CDS Dissertation Guide, 2024).

III. Ensuring Clarity, Feasibility, and Measurability

1) Each research question is framed in a way that allows for data collection through surveys, financial records, and statistical analysis. Avoiding broad or vague wording ensures that the research remains focused and practical.

IV. Building on Existing Literature and Theoretical Framework

1) The research questions draw from established theories (RBT, Dynamic Capabilities, Contingency Theory) and align with peer-reviewed studies to ensure academic rigor. This alignment reinforces the study's contribution to existing knowledge.

V. Feasibility of Data Collection and Analysis

1) The study acknowledges barriers to accessing SME financial data and explores alternative strategies, such as self-reported surveys and publicly available financial reports. Ensuring that the research questions are feasible for empirical investigation is critical.