Question

(Your boss has requested that you have the reception area and your office re- carpeted. You have a budget of R12 000.)

2. (Plan and sequence the research)

a) (Apply the research techniques)
b) (Evaluate the information you have gathered for relevance)

c) (Classify, categorise and sort your information)
d) . (Analyse and present your research findings in the appropriate format

Answers

GPT-4o mini
Sure! Let’s create a structured research plan to handle the request for recarpeting the reception area and your office within a budget of R12,000.

### 2. Plan and Sequence the Research

**a) Apply the Research Techniques**

1. **Identify Requirements:**
- Measure the area of the reception and office to determine the square meterage that needs carpeting.
- Identify the type of carpet suitable for the locations (e.g., durability, style, color).

2. **Market Research:**
- Search online for local carpet suppliers and manufacturers.
- Explore options such as different types of carpet (e.g., tiles, rolls, carpet squares) and their costs.
- Check for customer reviews and ratings on various carpet options.

3. **Request Quotes:**
- Contact at least three suppliers for quotes, ensuring they include all costs (materials, labor, installation).
- Inquire about any potential discounts for bulk purchasing or seasonal sales.

4. **Visit Showrooms:**
- If feasible, visit showrooms of shortlisted suppliers to see the carpets in person and assess their quality and aesthetics.

5. **Consult Experts:**
- If possible, consult with an interior designer or a knowledgeable colleague about the best carpet options for high-traffic areas.

**b) Evaluate the Information Gathered for Relevance**

1. **Budget Compatibility:**
- Compare quotes against the R12,000 budget. Check for hidden costs (e.g., removal of old carpet, furniture moving).

2. **Durability and Maintenance:**
- Evaluate the long-term viability of each carpet option, considering the expected foot traffic in reception and office.

3. **Design Suitability:**
- Ensure that the carpet styles/types align with the brand/image of the company.

4. **Supplier Reputation:**
- Focus on suppliers with good reviews and a solid return/complaint policy.

**c) Classify, Categorise and Sort Your Information**

1. **Carpet Options:**
- **Type:** Shag, Berber, Loop pile, Cut pile.
- **Color/Design**: Neutral tones, Bold patterns, Corporate branding colors.

2. **Cost Analysis:**
- **Quote 1:** Supplier A – R9,000 (Includes installation)
- **Quote 2:** Supplier B – R10,500 (Excludes installation)
- **Quote 3:** Supplier C – R11,000 (Includes installation and removal of old carpet)

3. **Supplier Evaluation:**
- **Supplier A:** 4.5/5, Best price
- **Supplier B:** 3/5, Over budget
- **Supplier C:** 4/5, Good service, slightly above budget

4. **Additional Costs:**
- Furniture moving: (if applicable)
- Disposal of old carpet (if necessary).

**d) Analyse and Present Your Research Findings in the Appropriate Format**

**Research Report:**

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**Project: Recarpeting Reception Area and Office**

**Budget: R12,000**

**1. Area Measurements:**
- Reception Area: 30sqm
- Office Area: 20sqm
- Total Area: 50sqm

**2. Carpet Options Evaluated:**
- **Supplier A:** R9,000 for durable loop pile carpet suitable for high traffic, includes installation.
- **Supplier B:** R10,500 for cut pile carpet, color options suitable for branding (no installation).
- **Supplier C:** R11,000 for a mid-range shag carpet, includes installation and disposal, recommended for aesthetics.

**3. Recommendations:**
- Based on the analysis of durability, cost, and supplier reputation, **Supplier A** is recommended for being well within budget and offers a suitable product for the expected foot traffic in the reception.

**4. Next Steps:**
- Confirm with Supplier A regarding the timeline for installation.
- Schedule the installation to minimize disruption to work operations.

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This structure offers a clear and effective way to collate your research and make a decision based on a systematic evaluation.