Be able to plan a people practice business research project aimed at adding organisational value

As you develop your career as a people professional you will be involved in solving complex organisational problems. The challenge is to find reliable trustworthy solutions and not be distracted by unreliable facts, outdated and biased opinions or superficial quick fixes. The CIPD promotes an evidence-based approach to people management to enable people professionals to increase their level of influence, making better, more effective decisions, to help organisations achieve their goals.

The purpose of this unit is for you to apply evidence-based practice to a people focused business issue, developing your research skills and ability to write a persuasive business report.

The assessment will address all assessment criteria of this unit, with a mark awarded for each of the four LOs.

Assessment task

Identify a people focused business issue that has strategic relevance to your organisation or one you are familiar with, plan and complete an original business research project that develops a set of business focused recommendations to address the identified people issue. Your research report should be approximately 4000 words and include the sections listed below. You are advised to use the section headings to help structure your report. 

To address Learning Outcome 1: Be able to plan a people practice business research project aimed at adding organisational value.

An introduction

This should provide some background to the organisation, your role within the organisation and a brief explanation of the business problem being addressed.

Terms of Reference

This sets the parameters of your research and should include the research aim, some explanation of where in the organisation the research will take place, along with the resources and timeframes necessary for its completion.  It is a good idea to attach a GANTT chart as an appendix to set out the timeline for each stage of the project.

Literature Review

This is a critical analysis and thematic review of existing published material and reputable on-line sources that directly relate to the research aim and objectives. As knowledge does not exist in a vacuum, your work will only have value in relation to other people’s research evidence.  The literature review should then help to develop the research questions and inform the recommendations you later make as a result of your research.

Research Questions

Drawing upon the review of the published literature, identify one or more meaningful research questions/objectives to help guide your own research.  It is important that these align to the research aim.

To address Learning Outcome 2: Be able to justify the most appropriate research methods to collect data for the chosen project.

Research methodology

This section of the report should explain and justify the research strategy and design for your primary research, the research population and sample, and how this was selected.  In addition, it should critically discuss the potential limitations of the data collection methods and any ethical issues, along with how your research will adhere to the main ethical principles of such research. It is important that research texts are referenced here to further support and justify your methodology.

To address Learning Outcome 3: Be able to analyse data to make decisions and provide business and people management insights.

An analysis and presentation of the data collected from the primary research

Having completed your primary research, you need to analyse the raw data collected, both quantitative and/or qualitative using appropriate methods to present this.

A discussion of the research findings

The purpose of this section is to discuss and make sense of the project’s findings.  You should compare and contrast your research findings with those identified from the published literature, identifying the key themes and their significance to the research aim and strategic implications for the organisation.

To address Learning Outcome 4: Be able to propose recommendations based on conclusions derived from the research and analysis.

A Conclusion

Following on from the discussion, the conclusion should summarise the main threads of the research findings, both primary and secondary and be aligned to the research aim and questions.

Recommendations

A business focused and evidence-based set of recommendations should be developed to address the research aim and initial business issue. The recommendations should be practical strategic actions, supported by an operational implementation plan and a strategic cost-benefit analysis aimed at the decision makers. To create a persuasive business report, it is important to highlight the potential business impact, so for example, any cost savings and/or an increase in revenue that could be associated with the recommendations.

Both the action plan and cost- benefit analysis can be included within an appendix and are excluded from the word count.

Personal Reflections

The purpose of these reflections is for you to critically review your research journey and consider the learning that has taken place. Consider what went well or not so well, what subject knowledge and research skills you have gained, and how you could improve any future research design. You should also identify any learning objectives to include as a part of your CPD.

Declaration of Authentication

Declaration by learner

Marking Grid

Learners will receive a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Refer/Fail result at unit level.

Assessors must provide a mark from 1 to 4 for each Learning Outcome in the unit. Assessors should use the generic grade descriptor grid as guidance so they can provide comprehensive feedback that is developmental for learners.

To pass the unit assessment learners must achieve a 2 (Pass) or above for each of the learning outcomes.

*The overall mark achieved will dictate the Grade the learner receives for the Unit, provided NONE of the learning outcomes have been failed or referred.

Learners’ result should be recorded in a marking grid similar to the example below.

Marking grid:

EXAMPLE Marking grid and feedback for learner – 7CO04

Note to Assessor – Please enter a mark for each LO. You need only provide feedback where you have awarded a mark of 1. This feedback should be developmental.

*This must be a true signature, so a handwritten signature, or a photo or scan of a handwritten signature, or an e-signature. A typed signature is not acceptable.

Be able to plan a people practice business research project aimed at adding organisational value

Business Research Project Report: Addressing Employee Turnover at AKOSZ TEC

1. Introduction

1.1 Organisation Overview

AKOSZ TEC LTD, established in March 2018, is a UK-based IT company providing Software Designing and Development, Web Designing and Development, SEO Marketing Services, and Educational Support Services. With a diverse client base, the company has grown steadily but faces strategic challenges related to employee turnover.

1.2 Identified People-Focused Business Issue

The primary people-focused issue identified is high employee turnover. This issue is of strategic relevance as it impacts organisational performance, customer service quality, and operational stability. High turnover disrupts project continuity and incurs significant recruitment and training costs, affecting the company`s ability to meet client expectations and achieve business goals.

1.3 Justification for Selection

Addressing high employee turnover is crucial for AKOSZ TEC’s long-term success. High turnover rates lead to increased costs related to hiring and training, lower team morale, and potential loss of expertise. By tackling this issue, the company aims to enhance employee retention, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity and customer satisfaction.

2. Research Objectives and Questions

2.1 Objectives

1. To analyse the current factors contributing to high employee turnover at AKOSZ TEC.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of existing retention strategies and identify gaps.
3. To develop actionable recommendations for improving employee retention and reducing turnover rates.

2.2 Research Questions

1. What are the primary factors leading to high employee turnover at AKOSZ TEC?
2. How effective are the current employee retention strategies employed by the company?
3. What additional measures can be implemented to enhance employee retention and job satisfaction?

3. Research Methodology

3.1 Research Design

A mixed-methods research design will be employed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the turnover issue. This approach combines quantitative data from employee surveys with qualitative insights from interviews.

3.2 Data Collection

• Surveys: Distribute a structured survey to current and former employees to gather quantitative data on job satisfaction, reasons for leaving, and perceptions of company policies.
• Interviews: Conduct in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including HR managers, team leaders, and a sample of departing employees, to obtain qualitative insights into turnover causes and retention strategies.

3.3 Sampling

• Survey Sampling: Use a random sampling method to ensure a representative sample of current and former employees. Aim for a response rate of at least 60% to ensure robust data.
• Interview Sampling: Select participants based on their role and tenure within the company to obtain a diverse range of perspectives.

3.4 Data Analysis

• Quantitative Analysis: Use statistical techniques to analyse survey data and identify patterns and correlations related to turnover.
• Qualitative Analysis: Perform thematic analysis on interview transcripts to identify common themes and insights regarding employee experiences and retention strategies.

4. Findings and Analysis

4.1 Analysis of Survey Data

Summarise key findings from the survey, including prevalent reasons for turnover, employee satisfaction levels, and perceptions of current retention strategies.

4.2 Insights from Interviews

Discuss themes and insights from interviews, focusing on organisational culture, leadership effectiveness, career development opportunities, and other factors influencing employee decisions to leave.

4.3 Comparison with Best Practices

Compare findings with industry best practices and benchmarks to identify areas where AKOSZ TEC’s practices may fall short.

5. Recommendations

5.1 Improvement in Employee Engagement

• Develop Career Development Plans: Implement structured career progression plans to offer clear pathways for advancement.
• Enhance Training and Development: Invest in professional development opportunities to improve skills and job satisfaction.

5.2 Strengthen Retention Strategies

• Revise Compensation and Benefits: Ensure competitive salaries and benefits packages that meet or exceed industry standards.
• Improve Work-Life Balance: Introduce flexible working arrangements to support better work-life balance.

5.3 Foster a Positive Work Culture

• Enhance Leadership: Provide leadership training to improve management skills and employee relations.
• Promote Employee Well-being: Implement initiatives that support mental and physical well-being.

5.4 Regular Monitoring and Feedback

• Conduct Regular Surveys: Implement regular employee surveys to monitor satisfaction levels and address issues promptly.
• Establish Feedback Mechanisms: Create channels for employees to provide feedback and voice concerns anonymously.

6. Conclusion

Summarise the key findings and recommendations of the research. Emphasise the importance of addressing the high employee turnover issue and the anticipated benefits of implementing the proposed strategies. Highlight the need for ongoing evaluation and adaptation of retention strategies to ensure long-term success.

7. References

Include a list of references used in the research, including academic journals, industry reports, and other relevant source.