What research steps need to take place before you can reach a decision?

For this discussion, imagine you’ve taken on the role of a manager at an engineering company. You have been approached by a supplier of goods—one you haven’t worked with before. The supplier shows you the new software package it is launching in a few months, and it piques your interest. The demo of the innovative technology shows you how it could really help your team design and develop projects faster. It also includes many add-ons for items your company is not working on, but your intuition is telling you that you should be.

The supplier’s study says that 90% of your industry will be transitioning to this innovative technology in a couple of years and that if your company does not move forward with it, you will fall behind. You are eager to grow revenue, develop your team, and impress your clients. The supplier says it is not making the innovative technology available to your competitors because it would prefer to partner with a prestigious company like yours. You think the supplier’s representative is knowledgeable about the new technology and your industry. While you appreciate the conversations you’ve had so far, you still feel uncertain about whether to partner with this new supplier.

In your initial post, address the following questions:

What research steps need to take place before you can reach a decision?
How would you use qualitative or quantitative data to help you decide? Explain the differences between these two methods.
How would you use primary and secondary sources to support your decision? Explain the differences between these two source types.
In your responses to at least two of your peers, address the following point:

Can you spot bias or illogical or unethical arguments in your peer’s initial post? Explain your response and give examples.