The  last step in determining potential solutions is to conduct external  research. Using Internet and industry resources, research ways other  companies have addressed this issue or one very similar to it. Look for  specific information related to the customer response, efficiency,  quality, employee satisfaction, and cost effectiveness of solutions  others have implemented. Find at least five potential solutions you can  consider for solving the problem you have identified. Your goal in  conducting this research is to find practical examples and measurable  data related to how other companies, and related industries, have  resolved the same problem or one very similar to it. When you have  completed your research, the findings should be summarized in an  illustration using at least one chart or graph, representing the data  you have collected. Use the study materials for assistance with creating  Excel graphs and charts, as this will help illustrate your findings.

Submit  the data collection Excel spreadsheet and the three data summary  charts/graphs you have created from the research conducted to your  instructor.

The three charts/graphs you create will be used again  in your Business Proposal Presentation in Topic 7, as well as within the  Final Business Proposal you will submit in Topic 8. Evidence of  revision from instructor feedback will be assessed on the final business  proposal.

General Requirements:

While  APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid  academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be  presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA  Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

This  assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning  the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful  completion.

You are not required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite.

Benchmark Information

This benchmark assignment assesses the following programmatic competencies:

BS Applied Management 

2.1 Analyze qualitative and quantitative methods of research.

2.2 Develop data collection plans for action research in organizations.