Demystifying Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide Using Saunders’ Research Onion
Demystifying Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide Using Saunders’ Research Onion
Introduction
Writing a research methodology can feel overwhelming—where do you start? How do you ensure your approach is rigorous and coherent? Saunders’ Research Onion (2007) provides a structured framework to peel away these uncertainties layer by layer. This model guides researchers in making systematic methodological decisions, ensuring alignment with research objectives.
This article will break down each layer of the Research Onion with clear explanations and practical examples.
What is Saunders’ Research Onion?
Developed by Saunders, Lewis, and Thornhill (2007), the Research Onion is a six-layered model that helps researchers design a robust methodology. Each layer represents a critical decision point, moving from abstract philosophical assumptions to concrete data collection techniques.
The Six Layers of the Research Onion
Research Philosophy (What is the nature of reality and knowledge?)
Approach to Theory Development (Inductive or Deductive?)
Methodological Choice (Quantitative, Qualitative, or Mixed Methods?)
Research Strategy (Experiment, Survey, Case Study, etc.)
Time Horizon (Cross-Sectional or Longitudinal?)
Techniques & Procedures (How will data be collected and analyzed?)
Let’s peel each layer one by one.
Layer 1: Research Philosophy
Your research philosophy reflects your beliefs about knowledge and reality. There are three key philosophies:
1. Positivism
Belief: Reality is objective and measurable.
Approach: Uses quantitative data, statistical analysis, and hypothesis testing.
2. Interpretivism
Belief: Reality is subjective and shaped by human experiences.
Approach: Uses qualitative methods like interviews and observations.
Example 2: Exploring community perceptions of disaster preparedness through interviews with flood-affected residents.
3. Pragmatism
Belief: Uses whatever approach best answers the research question.
Approach: Combines both qualitative and quantitative methods (mixed methods).
Tip: Choose a philosophy that aligns with your research question.
Layer 2: Approach to Theory Development
How will you build or test theory?
1. Deductive Approach (Top-Down)
Starts with a theory → develops hypotheses → tests them empirically.
Used in quantitative research.
Decision Tree:
2. Inductive Approach (Bottom-Up)
Starts with observations → identifies patterns → develops a new theory.
Used in qualitative research.
Example 2: Analysing flood survivor interviews to develop new resilience model
Which to choose?
Deductive if testing an existing theory.
Inductive if exploring a new phenomenon.
Layer 3: Methodological Choice
Will your study be quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods?
| Method | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative | Measuring variables, testing hypotheses | Surveys, experiments |
| Qualitative | Exploring meanings, experiences | Interviews, case studies |
| Mixed Methods | Combining strengths of both | Survey + Follow-up interviews |
Example:
Quantitative: A survey on employee engagement (measuring satisfaction scores). / A survey measuring satisfaction with early warning alerts.
Qualitative: Interviews with managers on leadership challenges. / Interviews with municipal officials on DRRM policy implementation.
Mixed Methods: Survey (quantitative) + Focus groups (qualitative) on workplace culture. / Household survey + focus groups with vulnerable communities on disaster awareness and trust in government communication.
Layer 4: Research Strategy
How will you collect data? Common strategies include:
1. Experiment
Tests cause-and-effect relationships.
Example 2: Introducing a new mobile-based flood alert system and measuring the response rate during simulated drills.
2. Survey
Gathers data from a large sample via questionnaires.
Example 2: A survey in high-risk municipalities to assess household disaster preparedness levels.
3. Case Study
In-depth analysis of a single case (e.g., one organization).
4. Ethnography
Observing a group’s culture in their natural setting.
Example 2: Observing community-based disaster committees to understand how traditional beliefs influence preparedness behavior.
5. Grounded Theory
Develops a new theory from collected data.
Example 2: Building a model of community resilience after analyzing post-disaster interviews from earthquake survivors in Sindhupalchowk.
Tip: Your strategy should align with your philosophy and methodological choice.
Layer 5: Time Horizon
How long will your study take?
1. Cross-Sectional (Snapshot Study)
Data collected at one point in time.
Example 2: An assessment of household preparedness after the 2023 monsoon floods.
2. Longitudinal (Over Time)
Data collected over weeks, months, or years.
Layer 6: Techniques & Procedures
The final step—how will you execute data collection and analysis?
Key Decisions:
Data Type: Primary (collected by you) or Secondary (existing data)?
Sampling Method: Random, Stratified, Convenience?
Data Collection Tools: Surveys, Interviews, Observations?
Analysis Techniques: Statistical (SPSS), Thematic (NVivo)?
Example:
Quantitative Study: Online survey (Google Forms) analyzed with SPSS.
Qualitative Study: Interviews transcribed and coded for themes.
Putting It All Together: A Sample Research Onion
Research Topic: "Effectiveness of Disaster Preparedness Programs in Local Governments"
| Layer | Choice |
|---|---|
| Philosophy | Pragmatism (Mixed Methods) |
| Approach | Deductive (Tests theory based on DRR policy) |
| Methodological Choice | Mixed Methods |
| Strategy | Survey + Case Study |
| Time Horizon | Cross-Sectional |
| Techniques | Questionnaire + Semi-structured Interviews |
For detailed Example: Click here to Read
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mismatched layers (e.g., Positivism with Inductive approach).
❌ Overcomplicating methods (keep it aligned with research goals).
❌ Ignoring ethical considerations (consent, confidentiality).
Conclusion
Saunders’ Research Onion is a powerful tool for designing a structured, logical methodology. By carefully peeling each layer—from philosophy to data collection—you ensure a coherent, rigorous study.
Next Steps:
Define your research question.
Work through each layer of the Onion.
Justify each choice in your methodology chapter.
By following this framework, you’ll transform methodological confusion into clarity—one layer at a time!
For More Read:
https://aesanetwork.org/research-onion-a-systematic-approach-to-designing-research-methodology/
https://thephdclub.com/blog/f/saunders%E2%80%99-research-onion
https://thesismind.com/analysis-of-saunders-research-onion/
https://ukdissertationwriters.com/saunders-research-onion-guide-to-structuring-research-methodology/
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