A description of research design and methodology detailing the approach to be used, including sampling and interviewing methods, experimental design, and analysis plans as appropriate. A statement of expected outcomes or new knowledge, such as a new definition or framework, a new methodology, a better understanding of how key variables affect the marketing process, or new information to assist managers in making better marketing decisions. Because MSI operates on a monthly review cycle, proposals may be submitted at any time. Proposal Selection Proposals are initially screened by a review committee composed of the MSI executive director and professional staff. Proposals that pass this screening are sometimes sent for further review to academics who have a special expertise in the field and to appropriate member company executives.
Reviews typically take about six weeks.
Researchers may be asked to revise and resubmit proposals. Researchers who wish to access corporate data or to interview executives at MSI member companies must submit proposals and go through the same review process as those applying for financial aid alone. These requests are reviewed carefully, and only those of exceptional merit are approved in order to limit the demands on member company executives. Researchers agree to submit a brief written progress report at the halfway point and a final working paper describing the results of the research cast in managerial terms. Working papers are required to be submitted to MSI prior to submission to journals.