Research Methods for Strategic Managers: Asda Leadership Study

This report presents a research proposal and analysis of leadership effectiveness and its impact on decision-making processes at Asda, a major UK retail chain. The study investigates various leadership styles employed by managers, with a specific focus on the democratic leadership style of middl...Read More

Research Methods for
Strategic Managers
(Word Count: 4520)

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................3
LO 1......................................................................................................................................................3
1.1: Research question.................................................................................................................3
1.2: Factors that contribute to the process of successful research question selection.................4
1.3: Justify their choice of research question...............................................................................4
LO 2......................................................................................................................................................6
2.1: Conduct research to find literature relevant to the research question...................................6
2.2: Undertake a critical review of the key literature for inclusion in a research proposal.........8
LO 3......................................................................................................................................................9
3.1 Evaluating techniques for use with quantitative data in a research proposal........................9
3.2 Techniques for use with qualitative data in a research proposal.........................................10
LO 4....................................................................................................................................................10
4.1: Evaluating appropriate research methodologies in terms of the research question............10
4.2: Choosing an appropriate methodology in terms of the research question..........................11
4.3 Justifying the methodology selected in terms of the research question...............................12
LO 5....................................................................................................................................................13
5.1: Record findings on a research question, literature review and methodology in an agreed
format.........................................................................................................................................13
5.2: Summarize the findings using suitable methods................................................................14
5.3: Present the findings using suitable methods.......................................................................15
5.4: Critically analyse the findings............................................................................................15
CONCLUSION..................................................................................................................................17
REFERENCE.....................................................................................................................................18
2

INTRODUCTION
Leadership is considered as significant variable in business organizations. It is defined as
a process to appeal and influence the activities of employees working in a firm with an objective
to achieve organizational goals. Managerswork to develop positive relationship with their
manpower in a firm (Franke and Felfe, 2015). Retail industry of UK has been showing
tremendous growth. This is because of leadership and its impact on organization which tends to
deliverexcellent outcomes.Asda is the retailer firm which is the second largestsupermarket chain
of the nation. With the manpower of 180,000 employees,Asda has been known for effective and
efficient management (Asda Stores Limited, 2016). Asda is proposing to introduce a company-
wide leadership programme. It is due to the fact that as it was evidenced thatone in four
managers of Asda from thepast hadknowingly breached professional conduct guidelines at work.
Looking at this, there raises emergence need of taking action for implementation of appropriate
leadership styles. Asda providesmanagementtraining to variousmanagers who are working as
leader.They are trained for adopting effective leadership styles in an organization for managing
the workforce. Hence, the programs run with association withAsda Leadership Event and
management training specialist Cirrus.Moreover, the rationale behind using the retail sector is
because of the fact that maximum job opportunities for employees in UK and cross border
arisein retail sector only.
However, there is need to focusvarious aspectson how leadership activities influences
the employees of Asda. Along with this, there is need to find out the role of leadership strategies
and activities in supporting effective decision making at the organizations.The given research
study is on evaluation of leader effectivenessand its role in decision making at Asda. Project
report thus, comprises of Research Proposal followed by formulation of aims, objectives and
research questions. Evaluation of research has been provided with the use of various techniques
to present the outcome of current investigation.
LO 1
1.1: Research question
Aim of the Research
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“To evaluate the effectiveness of leadership style in decision making process at Asda in
UK”
Objectives of Research
 To analyse various leadership styles used by different managers at Asda.
 To evaluate the effectiveness of leadership style in decision making at Asda.
 To identify the impact of democratic leadership style of middle manager on decision
making process at Asda.
 To recommend effective leadership style which provides more career growth
opportunities for middle managers in Asda
Research Questions
 What are the various leadership styles used by different managers at Asda?
 How democratic leadership style affects the decision making process at Asda?
1.2: Factors that contributeto the process of successfulresearch question selection
Given below factors has been discussed which contribute to the successful selection of
research questions: Suitability of research questions:The formation of research questions must be clear and
authentic. In the present research, leadership style has been focused as it plays effective
role in leading workforce at Asda. It needs to be properly investigated for ascertaining the
outcome of more appropriate and suitable decision making at Asda. Valid and clear formation:The research objectives must be clear and valid. Aims and
objectives defined must be clear and concise (Carroll and Levy, 2010). For instance, in
the present research report, the core of framing effective objectives should meet the
demand of research undertaken. As in present case, when there is need to find out the
more future benefits for the organization in UK, the in-depth efforts are employed to
frame the questions in a clear and precise manner. This has been done by using the
particular study on leadership style used at Asda. In depth structure: The first task of the assignment is the selection of the research
question (Perkins and Arvinen-Muondo, 2013).It should be appropriately taken into
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account as selection of proper questions based on leadership style used at Asda will help
to gain the effective outcome. Variables:The role of variables is significant while making selection of research
questions. There are two types of variables which are namely, dependent and independent
variables. In practical context, dependent factor taken is effective style of leadership
chosen by manager of Asda and independent factor is appropriate decision making
aspect. In order to achieve the better outcome for the present research project, there will
be used proper research methodology, literature review, scope and appropriate data
analysis. Selection of topic:The rationale behind choosing leadership style as a research topic
related to ASDA for the current study so as to know more about the success factor and
growth of the employees and company in UK.
1.3: Justify their choice of researchquestion
The management of Asda is known for developing relationships thatfosters itsgrowth and
success (Asda leadership, 2016).In this regards, leadership as a trait, attribute and style is very
vital as managers who are acting as leadersin this firm works to influence the employees. This is
all done to achieve the organizational outcome and productivity. On the basis of stated objectives
above, the need has been required to evaluate the effectiveness of leadership style in decision
making process at Asda in UK. Asda is one of the largest retailer organizations of UK.
In order to design and formulate the research questions, there are two ways which are
generally adopted. These are firstly,collection of data, which are relevant to the study and
secondly, analysis of data which has been gathered (Forman, Jones and Thistlethwaite, 2015).
These activities are essential in order to assess the impact of leadership activities in taking
effective and efficient decision for the benefit of individual and organization as a wholethat are
undertaken at Asda. Along with this, by answering the research questions, anattempt to
buildstrong influence of the research objectives will be met.
Research Objectives
On the basis of study made, the following research questions have been formulated as
follows:
 What are the various leadership styles used by different managers at Asda?
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 How democratic leadership style affects the decision making process at Asda?
The points given below will justify the selection of research questions formulated:
 Using Variables:With the use of two types of variables namely, dependent and
independent variables, research questions for the present study have been formulated. In
the present study,dependent variable is traits of democratic leader such as team work,
critical thinking, creativity and communication whereasdecision making process is the
independent variable.
 Suitability: The suitability of the research questions defined must be effective in terms of
authenticity. According to the current investigation,growth of ROI has been significant
for every company (Christison and Murray, 2012). This is same for Asda as well. This is
the onlyreason which enables its managers to make use of effective ways of leadership
and its styles. The evaluation of how they are so successful and able to influence the
employee is the majorproblem. This will beneeded to be solved out.
 Precision and Clarity: The collection of appropriate and reliable data is very imperative.
In present case,formulation of properquestions is the evidence of how well it will be
successfully attempted by the researchers.
 Completeness: The accomplishment of research questions is required to be properly
assessed. It is made with respect to both dependent and independent variables that are
used in the study.
 Validity: The next consideration which is taken into account is the validity. It is related
with the information which will be sourced out from Asda in order to meet the demand of
present research outcome will be on all grounds. Hence, there is need to get assured with
both types of sources used namely primary and secondary data for assessing the
effectiveness of leadership style for making suitable decision making at this retail
organization.
LO 2
2.1: Conduct research to find literaturerelevant to the research question
Leadership
As per the view of Hackman (2013), leadership plays a key role in success of every
organization. Leadership is considered as an activity that plays a key role in employee’s morale
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advancement. In the support of this, it can be said that the leaders are individual that motivates
employees to have efforts in collective manner (Hackman, 2013). In other aspect, it is an activity
of leading a group of people or an organization towards integrated work style. Lankes (2011) has
asserted that the leadership involves diverse activities such as establishment of clear vision so
that business firm can easily design strategies to meet goals. It is also necessary for leaders to
ensure that the organizational culture is having proper sharing of information, knowledge and
methods that can render a support to development activities (Lankes, 2011).
In business, leadership is a key function of management and any organization cannot
operate its activities without it between levels, departments and employees. Donahue (2011) has
critically explained that it is necessary for leaders to have effective interaction with employees in
order to create positive work environment. Leadership is one of most significant factor for every
organization and without existence of leaders business cannot be run in appropriate manner. In
the support of this, it can be said that the work force requires leadership in order to have
improvement in skills and experience level (Donahue, 2011). Leaders are accountable to provide
proper guidance and direction to employees in order to accomplish task effectively. Moreover,
the leadership is also significant for business organization as it plays a key role in creating trust
among all members (Yang, 2012).
Factors influencing democratic leadership style
It has been identified that there are number of factors that can influencedemocratic
leadershipstyle within organization. According to Andressen (2011), the behaviour and needs of
leaders can influence the leadership style. For example, manager of retail firm is frustrated from
the work culture and he has decided to adopt autocratic leadership style. In this situation, it is
possible that business firm can face various issues due to wrong selection or perception of leader
(Andressen, 2011). Selection of leadership style mainly depends on the perception of leaders so
it is necessary for business firm to ensure that the leader’sbehaviour is positive and it is
beneficial for diverse improvements (Blaschke, 2012). Van Aelst (2012) has critically founded
that the behaviour of employees also impacts leadership styles. In the support of this, it can be
said that if employee’s perception towards leadership system is negative then it will impact other
operational activities in negative manner. Positive behaviour of employees motivates
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management to take various initiatives that can improve overall organizational system (Van
Aelst, 2012).
Moreover, García-Morales (2012) have argued that the cultural diversity is one of the key
factors that impact the effectiveness of leadership style. It has been identified that retail firm is
consisted of diverse employees that belong from different culture. Diversification in culture also
leads to differences in language. These kinds of differences can impact leadership style and
motivational process in negative manner (García-Morales, 2012). Forexample, if democratic
leaders are not having correct information about common language then it is possible that
guidelines cannot be provided in better and may not necessarily takes right information from its
involving employees and team members. De Vries (2011) has asserted that, it will impact the
effectiveness of firm’s system as well as selection of leadership style. It is necessary for leaders
to have improved identification of employee’s needs and perception so that business can have
effective selection of leadership style and method (de Vries, 2011).
There are various studies made by authors where papers are related with the existing
framework of leadership in the retail industry of UK.According to Jonathan and Michael (2013),
Price leadership is another concept which defines a situation where change is created by
dominant firm. In that case, power of managerworking as a leader declines.
Bolden and et.al (2003)has focused on leadership stylesthat are used by managers inretail
sectors of UK. Task-motivated style leader experiences fulfilment and self-importance in the
jobdone for the companies. However,relationship-motivated style seems to develop interpersonal
dealings and enlargemoresupport for the team development in the retail firms.
Democratic leadership style affects the decision making process at Asda
Selznick (2011) has critically stated that democratic leadership has great relationship and
both factors impacts operational activities in diverse manner. In the support of this, it can be said
that the effectiveness of democratic leadership system impacts decision making in diverse
manner. If business organization is having efficient leadership system then it will assist leader to
convey message in better that leads to better decision making of the manager who is acting as a
leader(Selznick, 2011). With an optimistic leadership system, the leader of business firm can also
provide better guidelines and directions to employees. Other than this, Tourish (2014) has
asserted that if managers at Asda use democraticleadership system which is one of thesignificant
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aspects of effective leadership style, then employees will feel motivated and will greatly
participate with their creative and innovative ideas. For example, manager of business firm is
focused on democratic leadership style but interaction system is not much effective then it may
create few issues for leader (Tourish, 2014). On other side, if leadership system of retail firm is
effective and is democratic then employees and leader can have integrated message which is
beneficial for better organizational performance.
Selznick (2011) has contended that the effective leadership skills are an important aspect
of any leader’s portfolio of skills and experience. If leader does not have proper democratic
leadership skills then it is possible that disseminating activity can be occurred within
organization that may influence operational activities in negative manner (Selznick, 2011).
2.2: Undertake a critical review of the key literature for inclusion in a research proposal
According to above study, it can be said that the leadership and its styleshave great
relationship and both factors impacts operational activities in diverse manner. García-Morales
(2012) have concluded that the effective use and implementation of leadership styles is an
important aspect of any leader’s portfolio of skills and experience. Diversification in culture also
leads to differences in language, attitude or behaviour that can influence the leadership activities
in negative manner (García-Morales, 2012). Tourish (2014) has argued that the cultural diversity
is one of the key factors that impacts the effectiveness of leadership style in the organizations
(Cornelissen, 2014). Moreover, with an improved and correct selection and use of style selected
by manager who is acting as a leader can help in making decision in favour of company, its staff,
resources etc. Along with this, it may also support indoing of diversified job at the workplace
without any barrier and as per the consent of each and every individual of the firm (Tourish,
2014). It also assists in accomplishing diverse leadership activities in better way and lead
business to impressive success
Summarizing the above presented literature review, it can be said thatselection of
effective leadership style is a key essence to appropriate decision making process of retail firms
which is equally responsible for the accomplishment of job by its manpower. By studying the
various aspects regarding democratic leadership style which was followed at Asda as retail firm
helps in leading manpower more effectively. It has been analyzed from the various traits that are
possessed by the democratic leader such as team work, critical thinking, communication flow
9

etc. which actually enables the participation of employees at work so that more creative and
innovative ideas can be generated which directly favours in the achievement of organizational
goals of the retail firms like Asda.
LO 3
There are two types of techniques which are used for analysis of data collected. These are
namely, qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques.
 Qualitative Research: The significance of qualitative technique is used to conduct the
primary attempt for the research. It is required to do in order to attempt the alternatives,
opinions, and outcome behind the study which are undertaken by the investigators
(Farmer, Yellowley and Smith, 2012). For the present study, qualitative technique has
been selected. In that, thematictechnique will be applied and worked out.
 Quantitative Research: The method which is used for analysis of data is the
quantitativeresearch method. The characteristic of using this technique lies in analyzing
the data such as behaviour, opinion etc of sample population in terms of quantity.
3.1 Evaluating techniques for use withquantitative data in a researchproposal
Questionnaire has been used as a technique where respondents will be surveyed in order
to collect the primary data. This is made in order to meet the demand of present research study.
Below given is a format of questionnaire which will be asked to participants as follows:
QUESTIONNAIRE
(For staffs of relationship management department of Asda, UK)
DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS
Name:
Age:
Email id:
Q 1. How long have you been serving your job in the Sainsbury?
One year ◊
Two to three years ◊
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More than three years ◊
Q 2.Which style of leadership according to you is most preferable in making effective decision
making at Asda in performing retail operations?
Autocratic leadership style ◊
Democratic leadership style ◊
Transformational leadership style ◊
Situational leadership style ◊
Q 3. Which factor according to you is considered by leader while planning to adopt leadership
style for effective decision making?
Workplace culture ◊
Employee’s perception ◊
Organisation’s nature ◊
Type of work ◊
All of the above ◊
Q 4. Do you think leadership style affects the decision making process of the organisation?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Q 5. Do you think leadership style is a key essence to appropriate decision making process of
retail firms and results into accomplishment of employee job?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Q6. Do you think selection of rightleadership style enables to take decision in favor of
employees and management?
Yes ◊
No ◊
Q 7. Do you think it is important to consider employee’s needs and desires while undertaking
any decision in the organization?
Yes ◊
No ◊
11

Kindly mark the following to indicate your level of agreement.
8. Leaders motivate and encourage staff members to participate in decision making process in
the organisation.
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊
9. Employee’s behaviour and workplace attitude directs leaders to adopt leadership style to foster
effective decision making.
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊
10. Ineffective leadership style can affect the decision making and thereby results to hamper the
overall organisational productivity.
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊
11. Implementation of democratic leadership style at Asdaleads to make more creative and
innovative decision making than autocratic leadership styles.
Disagree ◊
Neutral ◊
Agree ◊
Analysis of data obtained through primary research
With respect to above framed questionnaire, staff of relationship department of the Asda
wassurveyed. The sample size taken for the present study was 20 staff members from
relationship department of the Asda. The data obtained from them has been analysed through
thematic technique under qualitative data analysis method. The rationale behind the same is the
selection of research topic which is based on determining the reasons and opinions in order to
meet the demand of present research questions.
12

For the present research study, primary data has been obtained through questionnaire
technique which is a sub part of survey method. The selection of questionnaire method is valid
and reliable with respect to various aspects that made it suitable to meet the demand of present
research outcome.
Validity of questionnaire method infers to the measure of test outcomes which shows the
successful implementation of questions formulated and their matching with respect to formulated
research objectives and aim. Design of questions framed for survey should be specific, clear and
are related to research topic. They must not deviate from the subject concern and in no case
prove harmful to hurt the sentiments and emotions of the participants.
Reliability is all associated with the accuracy in which questions are method is used. The
questions must be authentic and accurate. It is reflected from the questions defined which should
consider the flexibility of participants as such the inclusion of both open and close ended
questions etc.
Thematic analysis:
Theme 1: Democratic style of leadership is the most preferable in making effective decision
making at Asda in performing retail operations.
Results:
Responses Number of respondents
Autocratic leadership style 6
Democratic leadership style 8
Transformational leadership
style
3
Situational leadership style 3
13

Autocratic leadership style
Democratic leadership style
Transformational leadership style
Situational leadership style
0
2
4
6
8
Theme 1: Democratic style of leadership is the most
preferable in making effective decision making at Asda in
performing retail operations.
Number of respondents
Theme 2: There are various factors that are considered by leader while planning to adopt
leadership style for effective decision making.
Responses Number of respondents
Workplace culture 3
Employee’s perception 5
Organisation’s nature 3
Type of work 2
All of the above 7
14

Workplace culture
Employee’s perception
Organisation’s nature
Type of work
All of the above
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Theme 2: There are various factors that are considered by
leader while planning to adopt leadership style for effective
decision making.
Number of respondents
Theme 3:Leadership style affects the decision making process of the organisation.
Responses Number of respondents
Yes 15
No 5
Theme 3: Leadership style affects the decision making
process of the organisation.
Yes
No
15

Theme 4: Leadership style is a key essence to appropriate decision making process of retail
firms and results into accomplishment of employee job.
Responses Number of respondents
Yes 18
No 2
Yes No
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
Theme 4: Leadership style is a key essence to appropriate
decision making process of retail firms and results into
accomplishment of employee job.
Number of respondents
Theme 5: Selection of right leadership style enables to take decision in favor of employees and
management.
Responses Number of respondents
Yes 16
No 4
16

Theme 5: Selection of right leadership style enables to take
decision in favor of employees and management.
Yes
No
Theme 6: It is important to consider employee’s needs and desires while undertaking any
decision in the organization
Responses Number of respondents
Yes 18
No 2
Yes No
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
Theme 6: It is important to consider employee’s needs and
desires while undertaking any decision in the organization
Number of respondents
Theme 7: Leaders motivate and encourage staff members to participate in decision making
process in the organisation.
Responses Number of respondents
17

Disagree 5
Neutral 6
Agree 9
Theme 7: Leaders motivate and encourage staff members to
participate in decision making process in the organisation.
Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Theme 8: Employee’s behaviour and workplace attitude directs leaders to adopt leadership style
to foster effective decision making.
Responses Number of respondents
Disagree 4
Neutral 6
Agree 10
18

Disagree
Neutral
Agree
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
Theme 8: Employee’s behaviour and workplace attitude
directs leaders to adopt leadership style to foster effective
decision making.
Number of respondents
Theme 9: Ineffective leadership style can affect the decision making and thereby results to
hamper the overall organisational productivity.
Responses Number of respondents
Disagree 3
Neutral 5
Agree 12
Disagree
Neutral
Agree
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
Theme 9: Ineffective leadership style can affect the decision
making and thereby results to hamper the overall
organisational productivity.
Number of respondents
19

Theme 10: Implementation of democratic leadership style at Asda leads to make more creative
and innovative decision making than autocratic leadership styles.
Responses Number of respondents
Disagree 2
Neutral 3
Agree 15
Theme 10: Implementation of democratic leadership style at
Asda leads to make more creative and innovative decision
making than autocratic leadership styles.
Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Given below is an evaluation of techniques for the use of quantitative data which has
been used in the currentresearch proposal:
 Presentation of Data:The information which is collected through various sources is
required to be presented effectively. There are various forms in which data can be
properly presented (Carmichael and et.al., 2011). These are tables, diagrams, text, graphs,
charts etc. The idea behind the use of these ways is to clearly depict the information and
show the various trends and relationships. For instance, when there is need to assess the
rise or fall of number of employees working at Asda, the easiest way is to make use of
graph. The rationale behind the same is to easily look and draw conclusion regarding the
same. In this way, qualitative data can be effectively presented and analyzed.
 Forecasting and trend: The term forecast refers to the way in which future trend and
method can be properly analyzed. It is considered into use with the help of data records
20

from the last past years. In the present research,when there is need to find out the past
leadership activities which are responsible for the growth of this firm, the past trends will
be used at the best.
3.2 Techniques for use withqualitative data in a researchproposal
Given below are techniques that will help to assess effectiveness of leadership style in
decision making process at Asda in UK:
 Quantitative methodologies: These are inclusive of various methodologies, such as
closed surveys structured interviews and sociograms. The objective behind the same is to
convert data in the numerical form.
 Observation: The technique which is inclusive of watching the happening of event with
respect to the reality. The role of investigator in this regard is to look, analyse and
evaluate the whole situation.
 Statistical analysis: The analysis of data in the form of numerical fact and figure is very
significant (Kelly and et.al., 2013). It comprises the use of statistical and mathematical
numbers and approaches.
 Presentation:It is imperative as the information which is required to be presented is
made through clarity, openness and appropriately through presentation.
 Analysis of primary data: The next vital technique which is prime most segment of
research study is primary data collection. The rationale behind gathering this non
published data is to acquire the authenticity of research study undertaken as the
respondents are selected with the similar research field. Along with this, the result
obtained from its analysis and interpretation delivers the suitable outcome which helps in
gaining meaningful outcome. Primary data is analysed with the techniques such as
thematic technique where the themes are formulated on the basis of majority of
favourable responses of the participants with respect to current study or research topic. In
this way, through the analysis, the evaluation of primary data is made and conclusion is
obtained.
Qualitative analysis of data collected through primary and secondary research
21

Theme 1: Democratic style of leadership is the most preferable in making effective decision
making at Asda in performing retail operations.
Findings and Analysis: From the above presented data, it has been found that there are 8 out of
20 respondents who believe democratic style of leadership as the most preferable kind for
making effectivedecision making. However, there are 6 who thinks autocratic, 3 to
transformational and 3 to situational type. It has been assessed from literature review conducted
and primary data obtained that when individuals in organisation come and participate with their
valuableviews, democratic style is adopted by leader.
Theme 2: There are various factors that are considered by leader while planning to adopt
leadership style for effective decision making.
Findings and Analysis: With regards to above theme, different respondents servedifferent views.
It was like 5 considers to employee’s perception. 3 to workplace culture, 3 to
organisation’snature and 2 thinksto type of work. However, majority that is 7 out 20 participants
feel that all the stated factors responsible for making effective decision making. As when leader
uses all these factors, then only correct and apt style can be adopted to lead and motivate
employee to do work.
Theme 3:Leadership style affects the decision making process of the organisation.
Findings and Analysis:When asked about the present opinion, it was found that15 favored the
statement. However, 5 said no. This shows that respondents to the high extent believe that
leadership style affect the decision making of the organization. They consider that when the
suitable and favorable leader works, he drives in positive manner as well that enable
theemployees to give theirfull and effectiveinput to gain good output.
Theme 4: Leadership style is a key essence to appropriate decision making process of retail
firms and results into accomplishment of employee job.
Findings and Analysis:In an order to know about the respondent’s view regarding the theme, it
has been found that 18 out 20 were in positive response to the statementwhereas2 said no. IT has
been analysed through primary and secondary findings thatleadership style is selected in order to
conduct effective retail operations that successful achievement of employee’s job could be done.
Theme 5: Selection of right leadership style enables to take decision in favor of employees and
management.
22

Findings and Analysis:With respect to respondent’s view, it has beenfound that majority that is
16 out of 20 supported the statement whereas 4 said no. It has been interpreted that selection of
right style for leading manpower should be made by considering management as well as
employees. It is because they are the majorly responsible for considering the fact that they share
huge contribution in enhancing theorganisation’sproductivity and yielding.
Theme 6: It is important to consider employee’s needs and desires while undertaking any
decision in the organization
Findings and Analysis: According to the findings for the present theme, it has been found
thatmajority that is 18 out of20 supported the statement by saying yes whereas 2 said no.
Through these findings, it can be evaluated thata manager must consider what his/her employees
are demanding from them and accordinglyshould proceed for selecting the leadership style.
Theme 7: Leaders motivate and encourage staff members to participate in decision making
process in the organisation.
Findings and Analysis: The present themes revealedrespondent’sviewpoints where 9 agree, 6
were neutral and 5 disagree regarding the theme. It has also been interpreted that individuals
stronglyfavor that leaders are source of great motivation and encouragement to staff members
and play key role undertaking any kind of decision.
Theme 8: Employee’s behaviour and workplace attitude directs leaders to adopt leadership style
to foster effective decision making.
Findings and Analysis: On account of data collected, it has been found that 10 agree, 6 were
neutral and 4 disagrees to the statement. It can be thus analysed that employee’s behaviour and
workplace attitude directs leaders to adopt leadership style to foster effective decision making.
Theme 9: Ineffective leadership style can affect the decision making and thereby results to
hamper the overall organisational productivity.
Findings and Analysis: According to the findings, it has been foundthat 12 agree, 5 neutral and 3
disagree to that fact that use of ineffective leadership affects the decision making to the extent of
hampering the company’s productivity. Thus, it can be said that leader must chose it
appropriately in order to enhance organisational productivity.
23

Theme 10: Implementation of democratic leadership style at Asda leads to make more creative
and innovative decision making than autocratic leadership styles.
Findings and Analysis:The data collected was found that 15 agrees which shows that majority of
participants feel that democratic leadership style is more favorable in making suitable decision
output. However, theresponse shows neutral response of 3 participants and 2 disagree as well.
LO 4
4.1: Evaluating appropriate researchmethodologies in terms of theresearch question
Given below are different tools of research methodologies which are used with respect to
current investigation:
Philosophy of research:
Philosophies are applied in order to study the rationale behind the study is undertaken.
There are two philosophies of research and are namely, positivism and interpretivism (Anderson
and Anderson, 2010).Interpretivism philosophy approach had been used by the researcher to give
importance to his beliefs. It has further helped in providing adequate justification for the research
problem. This philosophy has assisted the researcher in highlighting real facts and figures as per
the research problem. In contrary to same, Positivism philosophy has also been used in the
present study. Using this approach, the researcher has been able to provide his viewpoint so as to
evaluate social world. The rationale behind selecting the positivism research philosophy for the
present research work is to apply the in-depthaccuracy of right philosophy for ascertaining the
leadership style and its effectiveness at Asda.
Research approach:
Research approach is another tool of methodologies. Generally, there are two types of
research approaches. These are inductive and deductive approaches.Inductive research is
undertaken when the flow ofinvestigation is required to be conducted research move from
particular situations for making or inferring broad general ideas and theories. However,
deductive research approach refers to aspect where theories are studied and detailed in an order
to arrive at a particular solution to meet the desired goal and aspect.The use of this tool in the
present study is justifiable in a sense of knowing the suitable use of leadership theories and its
24

effectiveness in applying the style by the manager of Asda in making effective decision making
process.
Research Study Types
There are two kinds in which research could be carried upon. These are intervention and
non intervention studies. Intervention is applied when researcher is intended to adhere with new
arena for undertaking investigation. For example, when the research is in direction toexplore
some new device or object. Non-intervention study on the other hand is based on responses of
the participants which have been gathered through their behaviour and information.The present
study is based on non intervention study where collected information is used as a part of present
research. The findings will be calculated from the respondents who are associated with
theinvestigation and will be then utilised to gain meaningful outcome.
Research design
The significance of using research design as is to present the layout for the current
investigation. There are used three types of research designs which are, descriptive, experimental
and casual. The selection of and effective use of appropriate design helps in answering the
researchquestionin more effective way to find out the correct layout of undertaking the research
study.
Data collection methods
This is considered as the most crucial part of research study. Generally, there are two
types. They are namely, primary and secondary data collection. These are chosen as the effective
sources of collecting information regarding the use of right andsuitableleadership style at Asda.
Data Analysis methods
When the data is collected through different sources, the next step is to analyse and
interpret the information. There are two methods which are used named as qualitative and
quantitative techniques.Qualitativeanalysis is a way to process the information with regards to
know the opinion and reason of the population and sources taken as a part of study. Quantitative
method is another way where data is measured through figures and quantities in order to gain the
measurable outcome. Qualitative data for example is conducted through the use of thematic
techniques where themes are formulated in order to gain the meaning conclusion through
effective interpretation. However, qualitativeanalysis is done through statistical measure, SPSS
25

etc. For the current research work which is based on ascertaining the opinion of population.
Thence, qualitative techniques sounds to be more favourable proceeded further with thematic
technique.
4.2: Choosing an appropriatemethodology in terms of theresearch question
Research methodology mainly includesqualitative research or quantitative research
methods.In the present study, the researchers will make use of these tools. In the above section,
there has been stated various tools and techniqueswhich are used for research study. In this part,
the selection has been made with respect to appropriate methodology in terms of the research
questions. Following ways have been chosen in terms of research questions formulated:
Philosophy of research
While working on assessment and evaluation of the effectiveness of selecting and using
appropriate leadership style by the manager of the organization for effective decision making
process at Asda in UK, there will be used positivism. The objective behind the same is to find the
ways in which leadership activities at Asda are support in determining leaders’ effectiveness at
Asda. This will help in giving a new way to present the answer regarding the research questions
formulated for the present study.
Research approach
For conducting the study with respect to analysis of effectiveness of style of leadership in
decision making process at Asda in UK, there will be applied deductive research approach. The
motive behind using deductive approach for the current study is to study the flow of
investigation from specific to general level.
Research design
With respect to current study, there will be used descriptive research design. It is feasible
for the present research as it will support in undertaking the study in effective manner.
Data collection methods
In undertaking the present research proposal, there will be used both the methods.
Primary data is taken in the form of survey, focus group, interviews etc. In the current scenario,
survey method will be used for primary data collection. In that, there will be formed
questionnaire which will be asked from the staff of the Asda. Secondary data is another form of
26

data collection. Various sources such as books, journals, articles, research paper and annual
report of Asda, will be utilized to know about the effectiveness of leaders at Asda.
4.3 Justifying the methodology selectedin terms of the research question
In the above section, the tools and techniques which are applied for the current
investigation has been selected. The present section will cover the justification for which
methodology is selected and implemented by the researchers. These are stated in points as
follows:
 Philosophy of research
The objective behind the same is to find the ways in which leadership activities at
Asda are support in determining leaders’ effectiveness at Asda. This will help in giving a
new way to present the answer regarding the research questions formulated for the
present study.
 Research approach
The core behind using deductive research approach is to analyse the different
leadership styles for understanding the practical scenario that exist at Asda. Approach
will help in strengthening the present study so that research questions can be answered
properly.
 Data collection method –The most crucial decision which the researcher is required to
make is in respect of datacollection.In the present study, the survey method has been
chosen. The use of questionnaireis made. It is an instrument which minimizes the tension
of accurate reaction taken from the sample population. It comprises of clear and concise
questions (Amagoh, 2009). These are done with the rationale to conduct research for
collection of datawithout error with easy languageand minimumconfusion. For
conducting the present research project, staffs of relationship management department of
Asda are taken in order to collect primary data as they are well aware regarding the
leadership styles and which are used at the workplace. Further, the rationale is to deliver
the most accurate and reliable information as they are direct intermediate. For this sample
population, the sample size selected is 20 employees. By using appropriate selection of
both primary and secondary data sources, answer to research questions can be effectively
made.
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 Data analysis technique –For analyzing the data, there istaken various ways through
both the variables will be placed. This will be useful to assess the conclusion which will
be found out from the present investigation. Hence, present study will make use ofboth
qualitative and quantitative data analysis technique. In qualitativetechnique, the effective
analysis and application of theories will be utilized. In that thematic technique will be
used. Variousthemes will be formed which will present the short analysis of data
analyzed. This is to arrive at the conclusion. Use of appropriate data analysis techniques,
is a way to show the in-depth study of carrying out appropriate study for the current
research study. In the present study, qualitative technique is undertaken where different
themes on the primary and secondary data have been formed. Here, themes are on the
basis of questionnaires surveyed from respondents who are chosen as a part of present
study. These responses of participants are represented in the form of bar charts, pie
charts, and other graphs. The relevance of using these forms is in order to facilitate
appropriate work presentation so that effective evaluation of the current research can be
worked upon in order to gain successful and meaningful outcome.
LO 5
5.1: Record findings on a researchquestion, literature review andmethodology in an agreed
format
Research project is incomplete without appropriate recording and format presentation. In
this regards, following points have been considered as follows:
 Methodology and methods–In the research project, the work is bifurcated in the
separate section named as methodology and methods.The core aspect which lies behind
the application of methodology and methods is to present the clear justification for the
work done. The effectiveness of investigationundertakenis reflected from the message
that is made for arriving at aconclusion.
 Recording findings–Once the data is collected, the next work is the recording of the
findings which is required to be made (Bush, 2009). This is made in various forms. These
28

are inclusive of tables, charts, graphs, statistical measures etc. If the recording of findings
is made with the help of qualitative technique, it makes the use of descriptive analysis.
 Format–The vital way in which data can be recorded and analyzed is all depends on
format. The most crucial aspect lies in appealing the readers. This comprise of format
which includes proper presentation of work undertaken. It is made in the form of specific
format which is inclusive of style, structure, and content of the work. This is inclusive of
title page, content page, and listof illustrations, acknowledgements, abstract/Summary,
introduction, background, methodology, finding/analysis, conclusions,
recommendations,further Search, references, bibliography and appendices.
5.2: Summarize the findings usingsuitable methods
The research made with respect to above study have been made. The findings have been
made out in the following points given below:
 Leadership is exercised by the manager who acts as a leader towork in order to lead the
effective organizational outcome.
 Role of leadership activities at Asda are majorly responsible for enhancingmorale of
staff.
 These activities play key role in motivating the staff to work more effectively for ripening
organizational benefits.
 Use of different styles of leadership is considered as a consequential activity of in
orderlead and direct manpower that is diverse in nature.
Method that will be used
There will be used two methods which are namely, Deductive and Inductive. In order to
meet the objective ofresearch questions, there will be utilized the deductive method which is the
qualitative approach. With respect to undertaken the current investigation for Asda, there will be
taken qualitative research because of following ways:
 It helps to find out answers to a question.
 It is considered to be systematic as it is inclusive of set of processes and plans to answer
the questions.
 It relies on effective collection of evidences.
29

5.3: Present the findings usingsuitable methods
This is required in order to present the findings of the entire research project by using
suitable methods:
 It is required to start the investigation in proper and appropriate format, style and content
 It must be effective enough to influence the target readers and all those who take active
participation in the study.
 The presentation of report presented should be appropriate enough toexpress the
happening of event and occurrence and application of various approaches. This is highly
taken into consideration (Johansen, Johansen and Ryan, 2011).
5.4: Critically analyse the findings
The primary purpose of this subject is to conduct a research on a research question
selected. As per research study undertaken, the critical analysis has been made. It has been
evaluated from the study made above that leadership at Asda iscrucial and significant. According
to the nature of leader and style which is adopted by him at the workplace, the employees are
guided and are worked. However, in contrary to the same, there may ariseto issues, if the
negative style of leadership is adopted and practiced at Asda.
Given below is aGantt chart which represents the number of weeks in which time
willtake to complete this project:
Activity 1
stWee
k
2
ndWe
ek
3
rdWe
ek
4
thWee
k
5
thWee
k
6
thWee
k
7
thwee
k
8
thwee
k
9
thwee
k
Preparing for
proposal
Formulating aims
and objectives
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Literature Review
for the research
Collection of
primary data
Collection of
secondary Data
Analysis of Data
Conclusions
Recommendations
Revising the
project
RECOMMENDATIONS
With the help of present study on evaluating the effectiveness of leadership style in
decision making process at Asda, an effective conclusion regarding the factors which should be
well considered by leader is understood. However, in this streamline, a recommendation is
provided to a leader working at Asda. Through the present study, it has been concluded that
democratic style of leadership is very effective in course of its working and operations to gain
productive outcome.However, it is suggestible that a leader must try to bring in for the
implementation of other leadership styles as well.The selection should be situation based and
must infer the nature and type of decision making which is required to be undertaken.Through
the help of present study, various aspects regarding what factors should be taken into
consideration by the leader in effective decision making are examined with respect to retail
31

sector. There are also presented different ideas and ways in which better implementation of
leadership actions and plans. Last, but not the least that present study will also help the
relationship and other staff members of Asda to make selection of appropriate leadership style
for taking effective decision making.
Recommendation for further research consideration:
The present research was undertaken on studying the impact of using effective leadership
style on effective decision making in the organisation. The present research proved successful in
meeting the outcome and thereby helps a manager acting as a leader to choose appropriate
leadership style in order to gain effective outcome of taking decisions in favour and benefit of
employees as well as organisation. In light of this, researchers are also recommendable to
conduct future research in direction of other industries such as hospitality, health care etc.
In the present study, evaluation of leadership style used by managers at Asda has been
chosen. For further research, other retail organisations such as Tesco, Sainsbury and Walmart
can also be chosen. Next, research can also be conducted on evaluation of assessing the
effectiveness of using leadership style on increasing the organisational productivity. Moreover,
research on involvement of manpower in selecting appropriate decision making in the
organisation can also be chosen for future course of investigation.
CONCLUSION
From the present research project which aimed to evaluate effectiveness of leadership style
in decision making process at Asda in UK has been assessed. The role played by leaders at Asda
is effective in leading the organization towards positivity. The research has been conducted. This
is achieved by presenting the Literature Review through studies made by number of authors and
scholars. Research Methodology is provided with various tools that show the structure of
carrying out research.
32

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