Dr N Balakumar

Once you have decided your project topic, the most critical question that needs to be answered is the size of the sample. Ideally, any researcher would like to study the population data (the universe). However, due to time and cost involved it is not practically possible and/or financially impossible to conduct a survey of this nature with regard to an MBA Project work. Thus, if the sample size is too big it becomes difficult to handle the study for an MBA student.

Therefore, you have left with the choice of arriving at a smaller sample size. But, again if the sample size is too less, your results may have a tendency to tend towards inaccuracy. How do handle the sample size is a big question that needs to be attended to.

Considering the time factor, ideal sample size for an MBA project could be between 70 to100. However, it also depends on the selected topic for research. If you have more segmentation, then a mere 70 samples would not be sufficed.

Let us view this issue with an example.

Assume that the topic of your project work is “Changing attitude of women in urban areas with regard to feminine products (or, sanitary napkins, to be more specific)”. If your target audience is just women then you can settle for a sample size of 50 to 70. However, if you would prefer to have sub-classification of the target segment in order to arrive at a better understanding of the product segment, such as, students, working women and housewives, then you should have at least 25 to 35 samples on each segment, that will make your total sample size around 100.

It is not that very easy to determine the sample size by a beginner of research. It requires academic experience coupled with research expertise. Thus, you must consult your faculty and your connections with reality on sample size prior to continuing your project work.