What Is The Importance Of Exploratory Study In Research?

An exploratory study is undertaken when not much is known about the situation at hand, or no information is available on how similar problems or research issues have been solved in the past. In such cases extensive preliminary work needs to be done to gain familiarity with the phenomena in the situation and understand what is occurring before we develop a model and set up a rigorous design for comprehensive investigation.

In essence exploratory studies are undertaken to better comprehend the nature of the problem since very few studies might have been conducted in that area. Extensive interviews with many people might have to be undertaken to get a handle on the situation and understand the phenomena. More rigorous research could then proceed.

Some qualitative studies where data are collected through observation or interviews are exploratory in nature. When the data reveal some pattern regarding the phenomena of interest, theories are developed and hypothesis formulated for subsequent testing. Exploratory studies are also necessary when some facts are known but more information is needed for developing viable theoretical framework. When we want to get at the important factors that influence the advancements of women in organizations, previous studies might indicate that women are increasingly taking on such as assertiveness, competitiveness and independence.