The role of supply chain management: a case of outsourcing transport operations in the oil and gas firms in Ghana

A working title:

The role of supply chain management: a case of outsourcing transport operations in the oil and gas firms in Ghana

Introduction

In this section, describe the background of the research problem, such as, how it has been identified and highlighting why you wish to pursue this project. In this section, describe the background of the research problem, such as, how it has been identified

Key research questions:

State the aim and objectives of the research. What are the questions you’ll be looking to answer? What are you hoping to find out? State two to four research questions which you expect to answer to achieve the aim of your project. For the purpose of clarity, each research question should address one particular aspect of the research problem.

A review of relevant literature:

A brief section about the subject area you are looking at and identifying the subject for research in terms of theoretical and conceptual issues. You must refer to key texts and briefly show that you understand how they are relevant to your research area. You are therefore summarising what has been done before on this topic.

Remember that a PhD is original research, so for PhD proposals you will also need to show that what you’ll be studying hasn’t been done before. In order to demonstrate the originality of your research, explain if your research supports or contrasts the status quo and the gap in knowledge that you are aiming to address.

Key words: Supply Chain Management, Outsourcing, Transport Operations, Fleet management, Oil and Gas Sector

Methodology:

Thoroughly explain how you will conduct your research. What options are open to you or what different methods could you use, and why have you chosen the ones you have. It is expected that you will justify your selection of methodological approach, methods of data collection and analysis. Provide details of the sources of data and any specialised resource and/or training you may require undertaking the research.

Preference:

Multiple case study approach

Qualitative method

Purposeful sampling design

Semi-structured interviews and open-end questions

Data analysis- using NVivo software

Expected results:

In this section, briefly outline what would change or improve on the basis of your proposed research. explain what kinds of results you hope to achieve, such as a greater understanding of the way something works, a new method of doing something and so on.

Explain how the expected outcome will add to knowledge and contribute to the benefit of wider society, academic and/or practice community and economy.

• Academic impact refers to contribution to academic knowledge, advances in theory, methods and application.
• Economic impact includes fostering economic performance and competitiveness.
• Societal impact refers to the improvement in public service and policy, health, quality of life and creative outputs.

Carefully consider which of these apply to your research and indicate how your research will create the benefits.

Timescale:

Include a three year timescale, showing that you understand the need to plan your research and have thought about how long the different tasks might take you.

References:

Provide a list of references which you have cited in your proposal. Use a referencing style appropriate to your disciplinary area.