A thesis can take one of many generic forms. Some major ones are listed here.
- I have identified a management theory (or practice or system) that would seem to be useful in my organization (or another for which I can get information). I will analyze whether this theory is useful and what changes in my organization would have to be made for it to be successful. (Classical thesis)
- I have identified a management problem. I will examine possible solutions and recommend the best. (Project report)
- I have, or can get, information on an organization, its decisions, practices, and outcomes over a period of time. I believe this organization's experiences have application to other organizations. I will analyze this experience and distill the lessons that can be learned. (Case study)
- I have identified a possible business opportunity. I will research the issues surrounding this opportunity and determine whether or not it is attractive and what must be done to make a success of it.
- I wish to examine a current management theory (or fad).
- I will compare it to past management theories to determine what is new and what is recycled (thesis using all secondary research), or
- I will examine the track record of organizations that have adopted this theory to see how well it has served them.
- I am interested in a current public policy issue. I will examine this issue to see what light management disciplines can throw on it.
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