The most appropriate research design for our chosen problem is descriptive. Descriptive research is concerned with finding out who, what, where, when, or how much. We chose not to use exploratory research because it is more appropriate for the total study in topic areas where the developed data are limited. We also chose not to use causal research because it focuses on the effect that a variable(s) has on another (or others) or why certain outcomes are obtained. Our study’s method of data collection is communication and the researcher control of variables is the ex post facto design. Longitudinal studies are the time dimension, statistical study for the topical scope, and field conditions for the research environment are most appropriate for our organizational problem. What data collection instrument(s) will be used? Survey? Interview?
There are two methods of research in which we are preparing to use. One method of research is the observation method and the other is the focus group method. Both methods are an excellent choice when trying to take control of the losses of a business do to theft.
The observation method which is sometime referred to as the field method will give Bloomingdale’s loss prevention team the ability to observer and gather first hand information from the loss prevention team on the behaviors of its employees’ theft problems and issues as well as the consumers. The biggest advantage of this method is that is gives the loss prevention teams an opportunity to participate in the survey. It also gives a greater validation to the information that was retrieved.
The focus group works well with each individual loss prevention group because it gives them a opportunity to work closely together in small groups and will limit the amount of information to just the participants in the group. When using a focus group it is a little more expensive than a few of the other methods, but you get your finding and information weeks before you would if you would by using one of the other survey methods.
Will you use an existing instrument or develop a new instrument?

Team B will use a newly developed instrument in order to gather information about the Loss Prevention Department. The Loss Prevention Department is Bloomingdale’s greatest investment that will help the company to prevent internal and external theft and it will also increase Bloomingdale’s revenue. Bloomingdale’s has been the target of theft crimes by its employees and by its customers. Bloomingdale’s has lost millions of dollars in revenue due to this crime. Bloomingdale’s considered cutting pay from management and even cutting some benefits that we offer our employees in order to compensate for the loss in revenue. However, after careful consideration executives felt that those cut backs may cause some ethical issues. Employees may feel that they are being punished for someone elses actions. Bloomingdales has now opened a Loss Prevention Department. After 90 days, Bloomingdales will randomly pick employees from the Loss Prevention Department and from the Inventory Department to discuss whether or not the new department has been successful at preventing theft. Team B will create a new instrument which will be a discussion guide in order to gather the needed information. Team B will create relevant questions that the members of the focus group will answer.