Before beginning to compose a successful business message, you need to collect necessary information by conducting informal or formal research. Often the information you collect during the research process helps shape your message.

Which questions should you ask yourself in order to avoid frustration and inaccurate messages? Check all that apply.

a. What action should the receiver take?
b. What will happen if I don’t conduct research?
c. What does the receiver need to know about this topic?
d. Where should I begin my research?
e. How is the receiver to take action?

Long reports and complex business problems often require formal research methods. Consider the following scenario and identify which formal research method would be appropriate.

George has been asked to prepare a presentation documenting customer reaction to his company's recently released hand-held GPS
device. He needs to know what customers think.

a. Conduct primary research for firsthand information.
b. Access traditional sources and electronic sources.
c. Conduct a scientific experiment.