What Is Observation In Research?

Observation is the first stage in which one senses that certain changes are occurring or that some new behaviors, attitudes and feeling are surfacing in one's environment. When the observed phenomena are seen to have potentially important consequences, one would proceed to the next step. How does one observe phenomena and changes in the environment? The people oriented manager is always sensitive to and aware of what is happening in and around the workplace.  Changes in attitude, behavior, communication patterns and styles and a score of other verbal and nonverbal cues can be readily picked up by the manager who sensitive to the various nuances.

Irrespective of whether we are dealing with finance, accounting, management, marketing and administrative matters regardless of the sophistication of the machines and the internet, in the ultimate analysis, it is the people who achieve the goals and make things happen. Whether it is the installation of an effective management information system a new manufacturing technology, distribution channel, strategic plan, cost accounting system, investment plans or training scheme, it is mainly through the efforts of the employees that the goals are attained. The vast majorities reacts and respond positively or negatively to various factors in the work environment and knowingly or unwittingly transmit cues, which the manager can easily pick up.