Research in simple terms refers to search for knowledge. It is a scientific and systematic search for information on a particular topic or issue. It is also known as the art of scientific investigation. Here, we will be discussing the key ingredients and role of research in management. But, first let us understand the meaning of research. It will be clear after going through some important definitions of research.

Several social scientists have defined research in different ways. In the Encyclopedia of Social Sciences, D. Slesinger and M. Stephension (1930) defined research as “the manipulation of things, concepts or symbols for the purpose of generalizing to extend, correct or verify knowledge, whether that knowledge aids in the construction of theory or in the practice of an art”.