Research Method: Research Processes, Style and Form

On Thursday, July 30, 2026, Dr. Seemi Waheed conducted a workshop on "Research Method: Research Processes, Style and Form" for participants of the 47th Mid-Career Management Course (MCMC) at the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) Lahore. Dr. Seemi Waheed, currently a Professor at the University of Management and Technology, Lahore, is a former Director General of the National Institute of Management (present day NIPA).

The Guest Speaker conducted the workshop in two parts. The first part covered key theoretical research concepts, while the second involved a hands-on exercise. Dr. Seemi Waheed began by explaining the phenomenon of Social Science Research. Then she explained the structure of a Policy Paper (PP), explaining components such as the problem statement or research puzzle, research design, key assumptions, methodology, and methods. She also explained data collection and analysis methods. Following this, she explained how to develop a problem statement, conduct a literature review, design research, and analyze data. She also explained qualitative and quantitative research techniques and the differences between them. She further discussed how to develop and select a research question and how to articulate a research puzzle. She also emphasized the importance of the literature review in producing a strong research paper. The Guest Speaker also discussed the use of Artificial Intelligence in research, explaining its do's and don'ts. She also discussed the writing of case method, explaining the issues that the participants need to take into consideration while writing their Individual Professional Case Study. While delivering her presentation, Dr. Seemi Waheed also answered questions from the course participants.

During the second part of the workshop, Dr. Seemi Waheed gave participants a hands-on exercise. She divided them into four groups, each tasked with formulating a problem statement and research questions related to their assigned topic and devising a tentative research methodology. A representative from each group then presented their work. Dr. Waheed commended the quality of the participants' work.