Everything is Research. Research is Everything.
The Whys, The Hows, The Becauses of the Role of Research in DBA Programs
“Research is seeing what everybody else has seen and thinking what nobody else has thought.” – Albert Szent-Györgyi (Nobel Prize Winner)
Research – the systematic approach towards investigating materials, sources, data and identifying patterns to discover facts, establish conclusions, and develop new knowledge based on the discovery of these facts and established conclusions.
Research – the fundamental aspect and evidence of progress for human kind.
Research – the single most important step towards attaining advancement in anything whether it’s science, medicine, technology, social sciences.
It impacts almost every aspect of our daily lives and influences society, business, healthcare, and education.
In the realm of business, research isn’t just a tool – it’s the foundation. Every decision, every strategy, every breakthrough stems from a process of questioning, analyzing, and discovering. This is especially true in Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) programs, where research is not just an academic exercise but a powerful instrument for business transformation.
The “Whys”
A DBA is designed for experienced professionals looking to bridge the gap between business theory and practice. Unlike a PhD, which is heavily theoretical, a DBA, especially the one at King’s Business School, focuses on applied research – solving real-world business challenges with data-backed insights.
So, why does research hold such a pivotal role in DBA programs?
– In the matters of business, one cannot always go with their gut
Research-driven decision-making is backed by data and evidence, ensures precision, predictability, and performance.
– A well-researched perspective is always the valued perspective
Research equips DBA graduates with a unique perspective – one that is valued everywhere – the conferences, the boardrooms, the academic circles. By contributing new insights and innovative frameworks, DBA professionals establish themselves as industry thought leaders who shape the future of business.
The “Hows”
With a research-driven mindset and structured problem-solving skills, whether a professional is an entrepreneur, a C-suite executive, a consultant, or even a policymaker, a DBA graduate is equipped to navigate their professional journey by:
- analyzing complex business problems
- assessing risks
- developing strategies
…that are rooted in empirical evidence rather than assumptions.
The “Becauses”
Speaking of research, let’s talk numbers:
- DBA graduates see an average salary increase of 13-25% post-completion (BusinessBecause).
- Over 80% of DBA professionals apply research insights directly in their organizations, leading to improved efficiency and profitability (AACSB).
- 65% of business leaders believe research-based decisions outperform instinct-based ones (Harvard Business Review).
- The demand for business research & data-driven insights is expected to grow by 25% in the next decade (US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Regardless of industry, research transforms the way graduates approach challenges and create impact. From academia to advisory roles – DBA graduates use their research expertise to become future leaders and also train the leaders of the future.
Everything in business is research. And research? It is everything.
- Every “Why?” sparks a question
- Every “How?” leads to discovery
- And every “Because” defines progress
A DBA isn’t merely a doctorate; it’s about mastering the art of inquiry, challenging the status quo, and using research to redefine the future of business.
For those considering a DBA, embracing research isn’t just meant for academic credits, it’s a foundation for success.
