Formulating business problems in research involves identifying and defining specific challenges, issues, or opportunities that a business faces and framing them in a way that guides the research process towards finding solutions or insights. Here are the steps involved in formulating business problems in research:

1. Identify the Business Problem: Start by identifying a specific issue or challenge that the business is facing. This could be related to performance, operations, strategy, marketing, finance, human resources, technology, or any other aspect of the business.
2. Understand the Context: Gain a thorough understanding of the business context surrounding the problem. Consider factors such as industry trends, market dynamics, competitive landscape, organizational structure, and stakeholder perspectives.
3. Clarify Objectives: Clearly define the objectives of the research in addressing the business problem. What specific outcomes or insights does the business seek to achieve through the research? Define the criteria for success and any constraints or limitations.
4. Formulate Research Questions: Develop research questions that directly address the identified business problem and objectives. These questions should guide the research process and help focus efforts on collecting relevant data and information.
5. Consider Alternative Perspectives: Explore different perspectives or angles related to the business problem. Consider the viewpoints of various stakeholders, potential causes or drivers of the problem, and potential solutions or interventions.
6. Define Variables and Hypotheses: Identify key variables or factors that may influence the business problem and formulate hypotheses or propositions about their relationships. Clearly define the independent and dependent variables under investigation.
7. Review Existing Literature: Conduct a literature review to explore what is already known about the business problem and related topics. Identify relevant theories, frameworks, models, empirical studies, and best practices that can inform the research approach.
8. Select Research Methodology: Choose an appropriate research methodology and approach based on the nature of the business problem, research questions, available resources, and constraints. Common research methodologies in business research include quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods, case study, experimental, and survey research.
9. Develop a Research Plan: Outline a detailed research plan that specifies the research design, data collection methods, sampling strategy, data analysis techniques, timeline, and budget. Ensure that the research plan aligns with the objectives and scope of the study.
10. Consider Ethical Considerations: Consider ethical considerations related to the research, such as confidentiality, privacy, informed consent, and potential conflicts of interest. Ensure that the research adheres to ethical guidelines and standards.
11. Seek Feedback and Validation: Share the formulated business problem and research plan with relevant stakeholders, such as management, employees, customers, or external experts. Seek feedback and validation to ensure that the problem is accurately understood and the research approach is sound.
12. Refine and Iterate: Be prepared to refine and iterate on the formulation of the business problem as new information is gathered, insights emerge, or circumstances change. Adapt the research approach accordingly to ensure that it remains relevant and effective in addressing the business problem.

By following these steps, businesses can effectively formulate research problems that lead to valuable insights, informed decision-making, and strategic actions to address their challenges and opportunities.