Research methods in business: Quantitative and qualitative comparative analysis

Abstract

Research in the social sciences is built on either quantitative or qualitative analysis, depending on the research context. Using both quantitative and qualitative analyses in the same study presents major obstacles. In the real business world, empirical studies could benefit from using multiple research methodologies. Thus, this editorial presents an overview of the literature on quantitative and qualitative research methods in business research to clarify some key issues on the subject. The following section introduces the papers included in the special issue on “Research Methods in Business: Quantitative and Qualitative Comparative Analysis” and highlights several novel ideas, emerging trends, and uncharted territory for future research.