Mian Mutti Ur Rehman (2202969)
QUANTITATIVE METHODS
(The Use of Artificial Intelligence in The Fashion Industry to Improve Circular
Economy Cause)
Assignment No. 4
Autumn 2023
SeAMK Business Faculty – Research and Development Methods
Degree Programme MBA - IBM22
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 APPLICATION OF QUANTITATIVE/QUALITATIVE METHODS ON THESIS 3
1.1
Revised Research Problem/Question ...................................................................... 3
1.2
Variables In Research Methodology ........................................................................ 3
1.3
Use of Sampling in Thesis ....................................................................................... 4
1.4
Data Collection Instruments ..................................................................................... 4
1.5
Statistical Methods ................................................................................................... 4
1.6
Ethical Considerations ............................................................................................. 5
1.7
Reflection ................................................................................................................. 5
BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................ 6
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1
APPLICATION OF QUANTITATIVE/QUALITATIVE METHODS ON THESIS
Primarily I am using qualitative methods to conduct research and planning to collect information/data through interviews or focus groups. As per my understanding of styles of reasoning my thesis is based on the induction method. I will cover the reply in this assignment according to the qualitative method requirement because my thesis probably will not cover
quantitative aspects other than estimating/quoting the savings of resources concerning circular economy aspects.
1.1
Revised Research Problem/Question
I have improved the research questions to make the study specific. I will explore the use of
Artificial intelligence in the fashion industry to support circular economy. I will explore the effective use of AI to control the waste of input/raw material in the fashion industry like enhancing the quality control by vision recognition technology etc. AI can also support to reduction of
human intervention in pattern recognition processes and quality control processes.
1.2
Variables In Research Methodology
I have a meeting next week with a medium-sized textile case company which is located near
Frankfurt Germany and will first understand the value chain of the textile industry particularly
the operations of the case company which will give in-depth knowledge to focus on the areas
to use artificial intelligence. For example, my proposed plan is to use deep learning concepts
of artificial intelligence for visual recognition which will train itself to detect the fibre and pattern recognition faults. I will also apply the circular economy principles to estimate the savings that can be made by applying artificial intelligence in the case company. Below are artificial intelligence components/phenomena that will be explored during the study.
Machine Learning
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Computer Vision
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Expert Systems
1.3
Knowledge Representation and Reasoning
Circular economy
Use of Sampling in Thesis
I have plan to involve the head of operations, head of procurement and head of supply chain
along with their top management to interview to learn their current processes and their future.
I will discuss multiple case studies/production batches of operations to replace the current
process with the possibility of using artificial intelligence. Through this process, I will record
the positive effects of the use of artificial intelligence especially which supports a circular
economy cause.
1.4
Data Collection Instruments
I am planning to use interviews to collect input on different aspects of thesis. I Interviews are
a valuable qualitative research method that can provide in-depth insights, perspectives, and
rich data for a thesis. am going to use interviews because my thesis mainly has the nature of
exploratory research and context surrounding a phenomenon of artificial intelligence and circular economy in the textile industry.
1.5
Statistical Methods
I will analyse the interview data according to the information given by Adams et el. (2007,pp.
115-165).
1. Transcription
2. Coding
3. Thematic Analysis
4. Sub coding
5. Mapping Relationships
6. Identifying Patterns
7. Quotations and Examples
8. Reflexivity
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9. Interpretation
1.6
10. Comparative Analysis
Validity and Reliability
12. Reporting Findings:
Ethical Considerations
During my research I will try to maintain confidentiality, will obtain consent to use the case
company sensitive information in the paper, and maintain data security, the use of AI can
eliminate certain jobs, but I will try to provide recommendations that complement the human
factor and promote/maintain the jobs. I will try to engage all the relevel stakeholders for the
sake of unbiased and transparency.
1.7
Reflection
Considering my study as qualitative and using the case company leads to the rationale using
interviews which will give insight into the main phenomenon. My study is based on primary
data/input, so interviews give you a broader spectrum to analyze the situation and practical
aspects of the study.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Adams, J., Khan, H. T., Raeside, R., & White, D. (2007). Research methods for graduate
business and social science students. Response books.