1. What we want to study (the research question).
2. How do we want to study it (the design).
3. Whom we want to study (the case cases or sample).
4. How best acquire information (the data-collection techniques).
5. How best to analyze or interpret the information that we acquire (the data analysis).
6. How and with whom to share are findings (the dissemination process).
7. How to confirm our findings (the verification process).

To accomplish these tasks researchers have devised a number of organizing frameworks.

Think of an organizing framework as a road map. A road map established for a traveler and possibilities for getting from one location to another. Although a map does not specify the exact route to follow would you ever attempt to drive across the country without a map? Probability not! In the same sense a researcher should not conduct a research project without an organizing framework. This framework establishes the researcher question. Just as a map allows a traveler to make critical decisions regarding his route, an organizing framework allows a researcher to make important decisions that may greatly impact the nature of the research study. Therefore, before conducting a research study, a researcher must be familiar with the most significant organizing frameworks.