The Use of Experiments in Business Research

Abstract

This chapter provides an understanding of what experiments are and how to use this research method in business research. More specifically, the chapter explains how to (1) conduct experiments, (2) identify the different focuses of experimental studies, (3) position qualitative experiments as a research method, (4) discuss action research in relation to experiments, (5) relate experiments to scientific paradigms and (6) discuss ethical aspects of conducting experiments. The chapter may serve as inspiration and guidelines for business students, researchers and managers considering using experimental studies. Furthermore, the chapter’s positioning of qualitative experiments as a research approach may increase the appeal of experiments for those not subscribing to the more positivist approaches to research.