UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA

MINISTRY OF FINANCE

PROCUREMENT AND SUPPLIES PROFESSIONALS AND TECHNICIANS BOARD

CERTIFIED PROCUREMENT AND SUPPLY PROFESSIONAL (CPSP)

RESEARCH GUIDELINES

JANUARY, 2024

Issued by:
Executive Director,
PSPTB,
P.O Box 2663,
DODOMA.

Tel. +255262962415
E-mail: barua@psptb.go.tz and
examinations@psptb.go.tz.

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 TABLE OF CONTENT
DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS AND PRELIMINARY PAGES ........................................................... 1

SECTION ONE ........................................................................................................................................... 3

PSPTB OVERVIEW................................................................................................................................... 3

1.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................................... 3

1.2 Vision and Mission statements.................................................................................................... 3

1.2.1 Vision Statement .............................................................................................................. 3

1.2.2 Mission Statement............................................................................................................ 3

1.3 Core Values ................................................................................................................................... 3

1.4 The statutory functions of PSPTB .............................................................................................. 4

SECTION TWO .......................................................................................................................................... 6

STRUCTURE OF RESEARCH GUIDELINE ......................................................................................... 6

2.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................................... 6

2.2 Objectives of Guidelines .............................................................................................................. 7

2.3 Scope of the Guidelines ............................................................................................................... 7

2.4 Role of Research Candidates and Supervisor ......................................................................... 8

2.5 Organization of the Guidelines .................................................................................................... 9

SECTION THREE .................................................................................................................................... 10

RESEARCH PROPOSAL PROCESS AND FORMAT ...................................................................... 10

3.1 Introduction...................................................................................................................... 10

3.2 Candidates’ Eligibility for Research Proposal ............................................................ 10

3.3 Research Proposal Process ......................................................................................... 10

3.4 Research Proposal Format ........................................................................................... 11

3.4.1 Preliminary information pages ...................................................................................... 11

3.4.2 Chapter One: Overview of the study ........................................................................... 12

3.4.3 Chapter Two: Literature Review .................................................................................. 17

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 3.4.4 Chapter Three: Research Methodology ..................................................................... 19

SECTION FOUR ...................................................................................................................................... 26

RESEARCH REPORT PROCESS ........................................................................................................ 26

4.1 Introduction................................................................................................................................... 26

4.2 Chapter Four: Fact Findings, Analysis and Discussion......................................................... 26

4.2.1 Introduction...................................................................................................................... 26

4.2.2 Respondents profile/ Demographic information ........................................................ 26

4.2.3 Fact findings .................................................................................................................... 26

4.2.4 Findings analysis and interpretation............................................................................ 27

4.2.5 Discussion of study findings ......................................................................................... 27

4.3 Chapter Five: Summary of Fact Findings, Conclusion and Recommendations ................ 27

4.3.1 Introduction...................................................................................................................... 27

4.3.2 Summary of fact findings .............................................................................................. 27

4.3.3 Conclusion ....................................................................................................................... 28

4.3.4 Recommendations ......................................................................................................... 28

4.3.5 Suggestion for Further studies ..................................................................................... 28

4.3.6 References and Appendices ........................................................................................ 28

SECTION FIVE ......................................................................................................................................... 29

RESEARCH EXAMINATION AND GRADING SYSTEM .................................................................. 29

SECTION SIX ........................................................................................................................................... 32

RESEARCH PROPOSAL/PAPER FORMATING, ............................................................................. 32

TYPE SETTING AND REFERENCING ................................................................................................ 32

6.1 Title, typing and Spacing ............................................................................................................ 32

6.2 Fonts ............................................................................................................................................. 32

6.3 Paragraphs ................................................................................................................................... 32

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6.4 Language ...................................................................................................................................... 32

6.5 Treatment of abbreviations ........................................................................................................ 33

6.6 Quotations .................................................................................................................................... 33

6.7 Pagination..................................................................................................................................... 33

6.8 Margins ......................................................................................................................................... 34

6.9 Capitalization and bolding of words.......................................................................................... 34

6.10 Table ............................................................................................................................................. 34

6.11 Figures .......................................................................................................................................... 34

6.12 Footnotes and Endnotes ............................................................................................................ 34

6.13 Length of research proposal and report .................................................................................. 35

6.14 Referencing Style ........................................................................................................................ 35

6.14.1 Author’s name not cited directly in the text....................................................................... 35

6.14.2 More than one author cited in the text .............................................................................. 35

6.14.3 More than one author not cited directly in the text .......................................................... 36

6.14.4 Two authors for the same work .......................................................................................... 36

6.14.5 More than two authors for a work ...................................................................................... 36

6.14.6 No author source .................................................................................................................. 37

6.14.7 Page numbers....................................................................................................................... 37

6.14.8 Several works by one author in different years ............................................................... 37

6.14.9 Several works by one author in the same year ............................................................... 37

6.14.10 Quoting Portions of Published Text ............................................................................... 38

6.14.11 Chapter authors in edited works .................................................................................... 38

6.14.12 Referencing Citation ........................................................................................................ 39

6.14.13 Multiple works by the same author ................................................................................ 40

6.14.14 Website information ......................................................................................................... 43

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 6.14.15 Publications available from websites ............................................................................ 43

6.14.16 Dissertation reference...................................................................................................... 44

6.14.17 Arrangement of references. ............................................................................................ 44

APPENDICES........................................................................................................................................... 45

Appendix I.............................................................................................................................................. 45

Appendix II ............................................................................................................................................ 45

Appendix III ........................................................................................................................................... 47

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 DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS AND PRELIMINARY PAGES

Definition of key Terms

Certified Procurement and Supply Professional (CPSP) Research Guideline: This

is the document that guides CPSP Research Candidates.

CPSP Research: This is the research process conducted in partial fulfilment for the
award of a CPSP pursued by candidates who have completed professional examination
schemes.

Research Paper: A research paper is a written or published research report document

describing original outcome of the subject matter under study. It entails research
problem, review of related literature, methodology, findings and recommendations of the
study. In principle, research paper is a systematic study and writing that provides
analysis, interpretation, and argument based on the subject matter under study. PSPTB
prefers to use research paper in place of thesis or dissertation to mean research work
conducted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of Certified Procurement
and Supplies Professional (CPSP) or any other named awards as may be prescribed by
the Board.

Research proposal: This is a concise and coherent summary of your proposed

research under study. It sets out the central issues or questions that you intend to
address. It outlines the general area of study within which your research falls, referring
to the current state of the body of knowledge and any recent debates on the topic. It is a
document that describes the essential features of a study to be conducted that include
the strategy whereby the inquiry which may logically and successfully accomplished.

Research report: A research report is a well-crafted document that outlines the

processes, data, findings and recommendations of a systematic investigation. It is an
important document that serves as a first-hand account of the research process, and it
is typically considered an objective and accurate source of information. Under this
discourse a research report is considered as a summary of the research process that

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clearly highlights findings, recommendations, and other important details of the research
document. It can also be a publication that reports on the findings of a research project.

Research: This is the process of systematic inquiry that entails proposal development,
collection of data; documentation of critical information, and analysis and interpretation
of that data by suitable methodologies set by specific academic and professional fields.

Thesis/dissertation: A thesis or dissertation is a document submitted in support of

candidature for an academic degree or professional qualification presenting the author's
research and findings. In some contexts, the word dissertation or a cognate is used for
part of a bachelor's or master's course, while a thesis is normally applied to
a doctorate. The word dissertation can at times be used to describe a treatise without
relation to obtaining an academic degree. The term thesis is also used to refer to the
general claim of an essay or similar work.

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 SECTION ONE

PSPTB OVERVIEW

1.1 Introduction
Procurement and Supplies Professionals and Technicians Board (PSPTB) is a
government institution under the Ministry of Finance. PSPTB was established by
the Act of Parliament No. 23 of 2007 to regulate the profession and the conduct
of Procurement and Supply professionals. In implementing its functions, the
PSPTB conducts professional training and examinations leading to professional
awards in which the highest is Certified Procurement and Supply Professional
(CPSP).

1.2 Vision and Mission Statements

1.2.1 Vision Statement

To become excellence in procurement and supply chain practices.

1.2.2 Mission Statement

To oversee the development of Procurement and supply practices by
Regulating the profession and conduct of professionals to achieve best
value for money in procurement and supply chain management.

1.3 Core Values

The PSPTB’s Core values are:

(a) Integrity
We are honest, ethical and transparent in serving our customers
(b) Professionalism
We competently provide quality and reliable services to develop greater
efficiencies in our work for the public
(c) Impartiality
We behave in the best interests of the public by making fair and objective
decisions

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 (d) Accountability
We are answerable and liable for our conduct.
(e) Innovation
We embrace ideas that drive learning and positive changes which add
value and improve our service delivery

1.4 The statutory functions of PSPTB

The functions of PSPTB are provided under section 7 of the Procurement and
Supplies Professionals and Technicians Board Act, No.23 of 2007 as highlighted
here under;
(a) Formulate and advise the government on overall policy relating to the
profession of procurement and supplies;
(b) Plan, directed, coordinate, monitor and controlled personnel requirements
in the procurement and supplies management profession;
(c) Provide professional advice to and recognize all training institutions within
the country offering courses in procurement and supplies, consultancy
services in procurement and supplies management, materials handling,
clearing and forwarding, packaging, professional warehousing
management, contract management and auctioneering;
(d) Formulate, establish and enforce the maintenance of standards and
conduct and regulate the activities of procurement specialists, supplies
professionals, procurements auditors, supplies and stock auditors,
procurement technicians and supplies technicians and the practice of the
profession of procurement and supplies management;
(e) Train or provide opportunities for the training of persons in the principles,
procedures and techniques of procurement and supplies management.
(f) Conduct professional examinations leading to the grant of and to grant
professional certificates and other awards of the board in procurement,
supplies, procurement audit, supplies and stock auditing and other
subjects relating to procurement and supplies management;
(g) Effect registration of procurement and supplies professionals;

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(h) Keep and maintain a register for the registration of procurement and
supplies professionals by this act;
(i) Evaluate academic and practical qualifications for registration of persons
under this act.
(j) Sponsor, arrange and provide facilities for conferences, seminars,
discussions and consultations on matters relating to procurement and
supplies management.
(k) Assist members of the public in matters touching upon, ancillary incidental
or conducive to the practice of the profession of procurement and supplies
management; and.
(l) Carry out such other functions as may be conferred upon the board by any
written law or as are necessary or expedient for the proper carrying out of
its functions under this act.

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 SECTION TWO

STRUCTURE OF RESEARCH GUIDELINE

2.1 Introduction
Research Guideline presents the culmination of a study to be conducted by
professional candidates in partial fulfilment of the award of CPSP. It is expected
that candidates who have completed all professional examination schemes will
be able to fill gaps in research related to professional practices hence grasp
learning experiences and demonstrate competencies of the entire research
process in procurement and supply chain management practices.

Therefore, to maintain consistence in the preparation of the research paper

PSPTB has developed this research guideline to assist its CPSP candidates in
preparing standard research papers. The guidelines provide procedures on how
to carry out a CPSP research study and the means of assessing candidates’
achievement on the ability to demonstrate competencies in the whole research
process.

However, this guideline is not exhaustive in comprehending everything,

therefore, candidates shall be involved in the five days comprehensive research
methodology workshop training to share experiences from experienced expert(s)
and research trainer(s), and grasp guidance from PSPTB Staff. Nevertheless,
candidates will be given supervisors who shall guide them in the entire research
process from the stage of developing the research topic/title, preparation of the
research proposal, and data collection up to writing research paper.

Ultimately, candidates should be proactive in reading different related literatures,

dissertations and other sources of information to be able to conduct their own
and original research work as well as write in the end a standard research paper.

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2.2 Objectives of guidelines
2.2.1. General objective
This research guideline aims to provide a uniform standard format for
CPSP Research Paper including research proposals and research
reports.

2.2.2. Specific objectives

Specifically, the guidelines aim to achieve the following objectives:

(a) To establish a uniform standard in the CPSP research process.

(b) To provide candidates with an opportunity to integrate acquired
knowledge, skills and practical experiences in conducting and
writing research proposals and reports.
(c) To provide candidates an opportunity to conduct research based on
professional practices in procurement and supply management.
(d) To get an insight into the CPSP Research Format and guiding
principles.
(e) To enable candidates share knowledge, skills and attitudes among
themselves and their trainers.
(f) To orient research candidates in integrity, proper communication
and research ethics.
(g) To enable candidates, to understand assessment procedures in the
CPSP Research process.

2.3 Scope of the guidelines

The guideline is delimited to CPSP Research candidates and stakeholders
responsible for the successful conduct of such Research in partial fulfilment of
the award of CPSP. The Guideline will cover but not the following issues:

(a) Candidates preliminary information and awareness on their roles, the role
of the research supervisor and the organization of the guideline.
(b) Research Proposal process and format.
(c) Research Paper process and format.

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 (d) CPSP Research Assessment procedures
(e) Duration for review.

2.4 Role of Research Candidates and Supervisor

2.4.1 The Role of Research Candidates

(a) To formulate a potential sound research topic and research

proposal based on professional practice and guidance on the most
recommended areas,
(b) To liaise timely with the respective research supervisor for
guidance,
(c) To develop own research proposal and be able to present and
defend it,
(d) Ensure the research proposal/report is reviewed and accepted by
the research supervisor before submitting it to PSPTB,
(e) To make data collection, analysis, interpretation, discussion and
make recommendations on the research report,
(f) To abide with all research ethical considerations as recommended
by the relevant authorities,
(g) To write a research paper and be able to present and defend it,
(h) Ensure the research proposal/paper is accepted by PSPTB as per
the set standards,
(i) To report and provide evidence to PSPTB on any incidents of
unusual and unprofessional practices from research supervisors
that may lead to late submission of the research work within the
agreed time,
(j) To submit the research paperwork timely to PSPTB as per the set
timeframe for research work from research workshop training to
research paper defence session,
(k) To ensure the research proposal and report are free from
plagiarism, and

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 (l) To bind black book research document and submit it to PSPTB and
other stakeholders for reference.

2.4.2. The role of the research supervisor

(a) To guide candidates to formulate a researchable topic in
procurement and supply chain management.
(b) To guide candidates in developing Research Proposals, and
writing research paper based on professional practice,
(c) To coach and mentor research candidates on matters related to
research ethics and professionalism,
(d) To critically and timely review the candidate’s research work and
recommend areas for improvement,
(e) To report to PSPTB any unusual and unprofessional practices of
the research candidate that may lead the candidate not finalize the
research work within the agreed time for PSPTB to act accordingly,
and
(f) To sign a research proposal or research report which is within
acceptable standards and in conformity with the PSPTB format.

2.5 Organization of the guidelines

The guideline is organized into four sections in which section one outlined the PSPTB
Overview preceded by preliminary issues including thedefinition of key terms. Section
two details Research proposal process and Format, section three presents research
paper process and format, and ultimately section four presents assessment procedures
for the CPSP research processs endnd up by presenting duration for review.

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 SECTION THREE

RESEARCH PROPOSAL PROCESS AND FORMAT

3.1 Introduction
This segment provides for the procedures of preparing research proposal as per
the PSPTB standards. A research proposal is a structured formal document that
provides a detailed description of the planned research work. It is intended to
convince readers that a researcher has worthwhile research work and that
he/she possesses the competence and a work plan to complete it. Generally, a
research proposal contains all key elements involved in the research process.

The main purpose of a research proposal is to demonstrate that, the candidate

intending to do the research has a clear and systematic conceptualization of the
research problem and the research process. Furthermore, it informs that the
candidate has done adequate reading and is informed of the recent work done in
the area of interest in procurement and supply chain management.

3.2 Candidates’ eligibility for Research Proposal

CPSP Candidates who can be enrolled to start developing research proposals in
partial fulfilment of CPSP must have the following qualification;
(a) Completed PIV/CPSPI or PV/CPSPII.
(b) Has attended a compulsory research training workshop, and
(c) Has been allocated and is guided by the PSPTB research supervisor.

3.3 Research Proposal process

The research proposal process is preceded by five days of Research
Methodology training that covers contents regarding Research knowledge, skills
and attitudes prior to embarking on research proposal development. The
candidates will be required to be proactive in understanding the formulation of a
researchable topic, stating the background of the research problem, being able to
articulate and state the statement of the research problem, stating general

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 objectives, formulate specific objectives and the stating significance of the
research under study.

Furthermore, candidates should get insight into reviewing related literature

including conceptual literature review based on various valid books, reviewing
theories and the ability to review empirical studies including journals, and
dissertations and articulate operationalization of variables about all reviewed
literature.

Moreover, candidates should be able to state the research methodology related

to the proposed Research Study before embark into conducting research study in
the field under the guidance of the Research Supervisor.

3.4 Research Proposal Format

Research proposal knowledge and skills are universal but can be treated and
subjected to various formats depending on the nature of the organizations. Under
this discourse, the proposed PSPTB research proposal entails three chapters
followed by standard preliminary information. Since writing is an art, each chapter
may have its introduction to provide an overview of what that chapter contains
and a small summary at all ends. The order of the suggested sub-themes in each
chapter is subjective depending on the orientation and taste of the mentor and
the candidate in line with this guideline. The proposed contents of a research
proposal are analyzed hereunder:

3.4.1 Preliminary information pages

The preliminary information is standard and will be customized based on
PSPTB standards as highlighted below;

(i) Cover page: This will include a comprehensive research title that
may include a case study or place or institution where the research

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 was conducted, candidate name and candidate registration number
as identity of candidature.
(ii) The preliminary information pages: The research proposal will
have preliminary information pages that include; certification pages,
declaration and right copyright, table of contents, list of tables and
figures if any and a list of abbreviations as will be guided during the
workshop training.
(iii) Proposal layout: The layout of the research proposal will contain
the cover page, preliminary information pages, chapters one to
three and references.
(iv) Appendices: These includes data collection tools such as
questionnaires, interview guide or observation checklist. Also, Gant
charts, budget and action plan of the entire research work.
(v) List of tables and list of figures: This section presents the
specific pages where the tables and figures are located in the
documents. The list of tables and figures should be placed on
different pages.

3.4.2 Chapter One: Overview of the study

An overview of the study provides the general picture of the study. It is the
heart of the research work that justifies the existence of the problem under
study. This chapter entails the following components;

(a) Introduction

This part should introduce the reader to the contents of chapter one
which include the background of the problem, Statement of the
problem, objectives of the study, research questions or hypothesis,
delimitation of the study, significance and organization of the study.
The CPSP candidates will briefly state the content of chapter one in
the introduction part or briefly articulate an opening statement that
introduces the subject matter under study in chapter one.

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(b) Background of the problem

The background of the study clearly defines the relevance of the

study or subject matter to contribute to the body of knowledge
related to professional practice in procurement and supply chain
management or solve the exposed research problem under study.
It is a specific issue or gap in existing knowledge that you aim to
address in your research in an attempt to solve a practical problem
or expand knowledge depending on the topic of interest. A good
background of the study bears the following features;

(i) Demonstrate knowledge of relevant literature.

(ii) Clarify the research proposal to fit into the debate in the
literature.
(iii) Show a clear link between previous work that has been done
in the research field of interest and the contents of the
research proposal.
(iv) The background of the study should foster logical flow from
general to specific such that it is arranged in a funnel shape,
from a bigger perspective (global) to a smaller perspective
(continental, regional and country wise).
(v) Literature should be the point of departure or stepping stone
that depict the fracture which needs to be addressed through
research hence becoming a cornerstone of the problem
statement.
(vi) The background of the problem should be a minimum of
two pages to a maximum of five pages only.

(c) Statement of Problem

A problem statement can be a theoretical or on the state of nature

in which the candidate must be clear on which of these problems to
be invegisted. A problem is the heart of the research and must

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 show the urgency why the candidate must be allowed to conduct
the study. Problem statement is the brief decription that indicate the
descrepancy of the existing context with vivid evidences and what
is expected to be addressed in the prospective study.

Four basic qualities of the research problem needs to be

emphasized namely; researchable, theoretically or practically
significant (should contribute to the improvement of knowledge),
clear and ethical. Candidate should avoid giving the symptompts of
the problem but must give the real problem of the research. A good
statement of the problem bears the following general features;

(i) It should address a gap in knowledge or professional

practice in support with literature or emperical evidences.
(ii) It should be significant enough to contribute to the existing
body of research.
(iii) The statement of the problem should clearly indicate what is
to be investigated, leading itself to data collection.
(iv) The statement should indicate the variables of interest and
the specific relationship between the variables that are to be
studied.
(v) Addresses the researcher’s motive to conduct the study.
(vi) Statement of the problem should be a minimum of half a
page and maximum of two pages only.

(d) Research objectives

Research objective is the ultimate goal or target of conducting the

study. The purpose of the study is driven by the research
objectives. In principle, research objectives should be closely
related to the statement of the problem and summarizes what will
be achieved by the study in the field. The objective should be
addressed in general and specific terms.

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 (i) General objective
The general objective of the study states what is expected to
be achieved in general terms. Principally, general objectives
emanate from the research tittle.
(ii) Specific objectives
Specific objectives break down the general objective into
smaller, logically connected parts that systematically
address the various aspects of the problem to be
investigated. Specific objectives bear the ‘’SMART
Principle’’; Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and
Time bound.

The specific objectives bear independent variables of the

study in line with dependent variable. It should indicate
action verbs for the study being from simple to complex
attribute. Under this discourse, specific objectives should
range from two to four objectives only.

(e) Research questions

The research candidate will have to state the expected research

questions or state the research hypothesis as pinpointed in the
series below;

(i) General question

General research question can be set from general research
objective of the study.

(ii) Specific questions

Specific research questions are drawn from specific
research objectives. Research questions are more useful to
qualitative and blended research study.

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(f) Research hypothesis

A hypothesis is a predicted answer to the research questions.

There are two types of hypotheses namely alternative and null
hypothesis that indicate variable relationship to be tested in the field
for the proposed research work. Principally, the aspects of selecting
whether it is research questions or hypotheses may depend on the
nature of the study (qualitative vs quantitative) or purpose of the
study. Hypothesis is more useful to quantitative research study.

(g) Delimitation of the study

This is a scope of the study; it comprises geographical coverage,

population category, time span of the research, perspective and
subject matter in which the study will be ingrained. It provides the
demarcation or boundary through which the research study will be
conducted.

(h) Significance of the study

This refers to the relevance of the study in terms of knowledge

generation and problem solving. It should address the way the
study is beneficial to policy formulation and review. Also, it can
reflect on knowledge creation, technological or socio-economic
value to the community. Also, this can portray the importance of the
study in solving the existing problem in line with the findings of the
study.

(i) Organization of the study

Candidates should organize the research proposal study into three

chapters and the research report proceeds to chapter four, five or
six depending on the nature of the study. Under the components of
each chapter will be numbered according to the series of chapters.
Chapter one for example its components or subsection will be

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 numbered as 1.1 Introduction, 1.2. Background of the problem 1.3.
Statement of the problem etc. Chapter one will be named as An
Overview of the Study, Chapter Two – Literature review and
Chapter Three – Research Methodology.

3.4.3 Chapter Two: Literature Review

This chapter deals with the review of the related literature to the subject
matter under study that include the following components;

(a) Introduction

This part should introduce the reader on the contents of chapter

two which include Definition of key terms and concepts, theoretical
literature review, empirical literature review, summary of research
gap, conceptual framework and its conceptual model and
operationalization of variables.

(b) Definitions of key terms and Concepts

The key concepts to be used in the research study have to be

clearly defined. The definition should be operational and not a mare
dictionary definition. Candidates should define specific term or
concept according to various scholars and ultimately adopt or
develop one sound definition that suits the respective research
study.

(c) Theoretical literature review

This will be the review of literature on the theory or theories

connected to research objectives, which candidate will have
identified as being the guiding principle of the study. A researcher
will have to review literature with grounded theories for the following
reasons:
(i) Preliminary search to generate and refine research ideas.

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 (ii) Demonstrate awareness of the current state of knowledge in
your subject, its limitations and how your research fits in this
wider context.
(iii) To help refine research problem, objectives and questions.
(iv) To highlight research possibilities that has been overlooked
implicitly in research to date.
(v) Portrays the variable relations pertaining to your study.
It is important to note that, the reviewed theories should
related to the subject matter under study and candidates
shall be required to link each theory with the respective
research study.

(d) Empirical studies

The candidate should demonstrate thoroughness in the field been

investigated by critically reviewing empirical studies that have been
done in the same or related study. This should be done at a global,
African, and Tanzanian context. This analysis should be critically
identifying where the studies were conducted, the sampling issues,
the key findings and observed weaknesses to substantiate the gap
in the current study to justify the conduct of the current study.

(e) Research Synthesis and Knowledge Gap

Candidate should identify the key lessons learnt from the literature
review. The gaps that have been identified in the literature that the
study intend to address have to be highlighted. This part will require
a synthesis of what the general literature reviewed and the key
gaps. The purpose is to show readers that, inspite of all research
already done on the subject area, no one has addressed the
problem in the way that intended in the current proposed study. It
should be noted that, this serves in the research proposal to justify
the conduct of the study.

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 (f) Conceptual framework (conceptual model)

The conceptual framework is used in research to outline the

possible causes of action or present a preferred approach to an
idea or thought. It provides the overall bases of the variable’s
relationships through which objectives and questions will be
operationalized and/or achieved. Its conceptual model framework is
normally presented diagrammatically to indicate relationship
between independent and dependent variable.

(g) Operationalization of Variables

Operationalization of variable is the process of strictly defining

variables into measurable factors. The process defines uncertain
concepts and allows them to be measured empirically and
quantitatively. It is essentially the measurement of a phenomenon
that is not directly measurable rather than defining concept to make
it measurable, stand out and be understandable. The researcher
can explicitly explain the relationship between independent and
dependent variable inline with study findings for the purpose of
determining variable outcome of the study normally stated after the
conduct of the study. The Title of Chapter Two will be named as
Related Literature Review

3.4.4 Chapter Three: Research Methodology

Research methodology intends to provide specific procedures or
techniques used to conduct field research study. It enables to identify,
select, process, and analyze information about a topic. Research
methodology may simply be understood as a science of studying how
research is done with systematic scientific procedures in the field. In
principle, the methodology section allows the reader to critically evaluate a
study’s overall validity and reliability. The tittle of chapter three will be
named as Research Methodology.

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(a) Introduction

This part should introduce the reader on the contents of the

research methodology chapter which include; research design,
philosophy, and approach, study population, sample size, sampling
procedures, data collection methods, validity and reliability, data
management, measurement of scales and data analysis.

(b) Research design

Research design is the framework of research methods and

techniques through which the candidate or researcher will choose
in conducting the study. The research design allows researchers to
sharpen the research methods suitable to the subject matter under
study. A well-planned research design helps to ensure your
methods match your research objectives and that you use the right
kind of analysis for your data. The research design can be
quantitative research design which include but not limited to
experimental, descriptive, correlation research design etc. and
qualitative research design which include but not limited to Case
study, ethnography, grounded theory, explanatory sequential and
phenomenology. A candidate should select and specify a suitable
research design in the respective research study.

(c) Research approach

A research approach provides a detailed overview of the steps and

procedures the researcher plans to execute in data collection,
analysis and interpretation of research outputs. It is the decision or
strategies you make as researcher in undertaking field research
study based on qualitative and quantitative research study ranging
from the strategies or approaches of data collection methods,
research design, analysis and interpretation.

20
(d) Research Philosophy

A research philosophy is a framework that guides how research

should be conducted based on ideas about reality and the nature of
knowledge. Research philosophy is associated with assumption,
knowledge and nature of the study. It is a belief about the way in
which data about a phenomenon should be gathered, analyzed and
used. The research philosophies can be positivism, interpretivism
and pragmatism research philosophy depending on the nature of
the study. With justification well provided candidates should state
clearly which research philosophy has been adopted in the study.

(e) Measurement of variables

Measurement of variables clearly explain statistical guide that will

be used in measuring or testing hypothesis, research question,
and its justification. Measurement of variables are categorized into
parametric and non parametic measurement.

(i) Parametric measurement

This make assumptions about the parameters of the

population distribution from whch the sample is drawn with
the assumption that population data are normally distributed.

(ii) Non parametric measurement

This tests measurements which do not based on data that is

normally distributed.These measurements do not involve
testing of hypothesis related to population parameters.
Candidates may state any kind of measurement depending
on the proposed study.

21
(f) Data collection methods

Data collection is a process of collecting data from all the relevant

sources to find answers to the research problem, test the
hypothesis (if you are following deductive approach) and evaluate
the outcomes. The candidate is required to identify and explain
data collection methods to be applied and justification in the
research work. Data collection methods can be focus groups,
interviews, surveys, questionnaires, observations, etc.

(g) Targeted Population

Targeted Population emanates from study population that the

researcher wishes undertake the study. Study population refers to
the entire group or set of individuals or elements that share a
common characteristic in which target group can be drawn from it.
Therefore, target population represents a specific subgroup within
the population that is the main focus of study and analysis.
Candidates should state the targeted study population and the
reasons thereto in the respective research study.

(h) Sample and Sample size

A sample is a subset of individuals from a larger population or

targeted population. Sampling is the process of selecting the group
that you will actually collect data for your research study. Samples
are used to make inferences about the study population.

If the study will deal with sample and sample size is required then
candidates are required to state the sample size to be used in the
study and the way that size has been arrived.

Sample size refers to the number of participants or respondent

included in a study. This number is usually represented by n. The
size of a sample influences two statistical properties:

22
 (i) The precision of our estimates and
(ii) The power of the study to draw conclusions.

(i) Sampling procedure

Sampling procedure is a process or technique of choosing a sub-

group from a population to participate in the study. It is the process
of selecting a number of individuals (samples) for a study in such a
way that the individuals selected represent the large group from
which they were selected. There are number of sampling
procedures that the researcher may employ in the respective
research study that can probalistic or non probabilistic sampling
techniques. Under each category there a number of procedures
that can be adopted depending on the nature of the study which
may include but not limited to simple random sampling, stratified
sampling, purposive sampling procedure etc.

The researcher must provide justification of the sampling procedure

adopted as well as sample size used in the research study. When
formulae is adopted in obtaining the sample size, justification
should be provided on the reason of adopting a particular formula
which is equally to specific sampling techniques adopted.

(j) Reliability and validity of data

(i) Reliability

The researcher should state how he/she will examine data to

ensure its reliability. Examples of the methods testing
reliability include; Test-retest, Cronbach alpha test and other
scales. Also, justification should be provided to convince the
reader on the appropriateness of the methods adopted to
measure reliability.

23
 (ii) Validity
The researcher should clearly state how data will be tested
and refined to ensure achieve what it claimed to measure.
Examples of the methods of testing validity include; Peer
review, pilot test, methods triangulation, ambiguity removal.
Equally, the researcher should provide justification on the
appropriateness of the methods to measure validity.

(k) Management and analysis of data

(i) Data management

Researcher should clearly state how data will be inspected,

corrected, error cleaned, stored, coded and treatment prior
to analysis and after analysis. The research should clearly
state how well data will be managed in conducting the study.

(ii) Data analysis

A researcher has to state how data will be analyzed
statistically by use of tables, chart, and graphs etc., and
interpreted by relating to the relevant literature (theoretical
and empirical studies).

(l) Expected Results

A researcher may state what he/she expects to achieve basing on

the objectives and research questions of the research study. This
is started only in research proposal as prospective research study.

(m) Limitations of the study

In the limitation of the study, a researcher has to clearly state

anticipated research limitations and proposed techniques or
mitigation strategies in line with research methods adopted.

24
 Likewise, a researcher should explicitly state the jurisdiction and
boundaries of the research study. Unlike limitation of the study, the
research should provide demarcation of the study.

(n) Research Ethics

Researchers should apply fundamental ethical principles to

research activities from design, implementation and reporting.
Good ethical practices include but not limited to respect towards
respondents and society, proper use of resources, good scientific
conduct, integrity, proper use of research outputs, compliance to
laws of the land and regulations.

(o) References

At the end of research proposal, a section where lists of all

references stated in are shown. References should be arranged
alphabetically, be authoritative, relevant to the topic and of recent
years in particular field. References should be within a range of
one to fifteen years old only. The researcher should adopt APA
referencing style.

(p) Appendices

Appendices are vital information relevant to the research study but

are not included in the main contents of the proposal. The expected
appendices to be attached after references include questionnaires
guide, interview guide, observation checklist, documentary review
checklist, work plan, budget etc.

25
 SECTION FOUR

RESEARCH REPORT PROCESS

4.1 Introduction
This section presents the process of preparation of research report which is next
after data collection and management assignment. In this scenerio the research
proposal chapters from chapters one to three are revised in order to be included
in the research report and ultimately is presented as research paper examination.
Therefore, this section will proceeed to Chapters Four, Five and Six chapter
depending on the nature of the research.

4.2 Chapter Four: Fact Findings, Analysis and Discussion

4.2.1 Introduction

This section will present the content of this chapter from presentation of
data, facts findings, analysis and discussion.

4.2.2 Respondents profile/ Demographic information

The preliminary information from the respondents like age range, sex,
working experiences n.k will be presented to back up the study findings
depending on the nature of the study.

4.2.3 Fact findings

The researcher should clearly state the methods of analysis adopted

whether qualitative analysis or quantitative methods and indicate the
means through which analysis was performed prior to discussion. A
researcher has to present findings gathered in the study. The researcher
should know that not all findings are facts, others are only opinions prior to
interpretation and analysis.

26
 4.2.4 Findings analysis and interpretation.

A thorough analysis and interpretation of facts should be performed by the

research qualitatively or quantitatively basing on each specific objective
and make interpretation to provide meaning pertaining to the respective
study.

4.2.5 Discussion of study findings

The analyzed data should be critically discussed based on the specific

objectives relating them to the research questions/ hypothesis testing
proving problem existence. The discussion should be supported by the
reviewed literature from chapter two, management practices and empirical
evidences depending on the subject matter under study. The researcher
may decide whether analysis and discussion to be performed all together
in chapter four or otherherwise, discussion be in chapter five especially if
the research is purely qualitative with many theories and hence having a
total of six chapters.

4.3 Chapter Five: Summary of Fact Findings, Conclusion and

Recommendations

4.3.1 Introduction

This presents the content of chapter five like summary of study findings,
conclusion and recommendations to the study which ends up with five
chapters and discussion of Study findings if the study ends up with six
chapters in order the last chapter six to entail summary of study findings,
conclusion and recommendations.

4.3.2 Summary of fact findings

The researcher should provide an orderly summary of study findings that

bear a logical flow of the study from general study objective to the findings

27
 of each specific objective. The summary may range from half a page to
the maximum of two pages only depending on the nature of the study.

4.3.3 Conclusion

The researcher should draw a brief conclusion of less than half a page to
maximum of one page only not exceeding the summary of study findings.
Usually, conclusion is drawn from the summary of study findings.

4.3.4 Recommendations

The researcher should make brief recommendations of the study to

various stakeholders depending on the nature of the study.
Recommendations should be concise and preciously to specific issue for
respective stakeholder to take action for improvement eg.
Recommendation to Government, to the Organization, Policy makers,
Professionals, Practitioners etc.

4.3.5 Suggestion for Further studies

The end up of one study, culminate the gap of another study. Therefore,
the researcher should pinpoint other areas for further studies as the gap
created by the respective study.

4.3.6 References and Appendices

Ultimately, the researcher should provide list of all references stated or

used in the research paper. The reference should be arranged in APA
Style and in alphabetical order. It is equally important for references to be
relevant to the study and be of recent years in a particular field ranging
from one year to fifteen years only.

Appendices should be provided for information relevant to the research

work and be appended after references such as questionnaires, interview
guide, observation checklist, piece of newspaper etc.

28
 SECTION FIVE

RESEARCH EXAMINATION AND GRADING SYSTEM

5.1 Introduction

This section aims to provide awareness to research candidates on the

assessment procedures for research proposal and the Research Paper to enable
the candidate to be pro-active in the research process.

5.2 Assessment of the research Process

Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of qualitative and

quantitative data to improve candidates learning and development. In practice,
assessment data are used to monitor and evaluate how well the curriculum is
supporting candidates’ learning to identify successful practices or areas of
improvement to guide evidence- based decision making. Under this discourse,
formative and summative assessments will be applied to gauge candidates
progress in the process and evaluate candidates’ achievement at the end of the
research process respectively.

5.2.1 Research Proposal Assessment

The proposal should emanate in any topic within the parameter of

procurement and supply chain management as shall be guided in the
mandatory comprehensive research methodology training workshop.

The research proposal assessment shall consist of formative assessment

based on research proposal that will be own original work prepared free
from pragiarism, approved by the supervisor prior to presentation either
physical or online for grading. The research proposal should score above
average of 50% score prior to field data collection, analysis and report
writing.

Candidates with minor corrections in their research proposal will be

required to make appropriate corrections as guided before been given a

29
 clearance to continue with data collection, analysis and report writing.
However, the failed candidates will be required to re- work the whole
research proposal work.

5.2.2 Research Paper Assessment

The research examination process will consist of both formative and

summative assessment in the ground that, the research paper will be
subjected for for pragiarism testing prior to submission to external marking
for formative assessment grading and ultimately researcher who scored
above average of 50% shall be obliged to defend the research paper
physical or online modes as summative assessment with which
successful candidates shall be eligible for submission of Black ready to
wait graduation ceremony.

5.3 Conditions and Penalty

5.3.1 Conditions

(a) CPSP research candidates of should be submitted researcher

within two years as prescribed in the curriculum after complition of
CPSPII and extension of one year to make a total of 36 months.
(b) Candidates who have passed CPSP research Paper will be
required to submit blackbook as pre- requisite for graduation as
prescribed in the curriculum
(c) CPSP Research Referrals both Propoasal and Research Paper will
be subjected to administrative fee for re- defense.
(d) Research Proposal will not be obliged to submit within
examaination respective examination session after comprehensive
research methodology workshop.

5.3.2 Penalty

(a) Candidates who failed to to submit research paper within three

years shall be obliged to pay a penalty fee each year not

30
 exceeding two years before CPSPII become dormant and start
afresh.

(b) Cadidates who failed to submit blackbook research in the

respective examination session will be obliged to pay penalty fee to
be set by PSPTB and fowarded to the next graduands.

31
 SECTION SIX

RESEARCH PROPOSAL/PAPER FORMATING,

TYPE SETTING AND REFERENCING

6.1 Title, typing and Spacing

(a) Write the main title of the research proposal/paper in bolded capital letters.
All other text after title, such as the author’s name, should be written in
capital letters and of 12 font size, bolded and centered; see attached
sample, Appendix II. There should be space of 1.0 cm between section
or subsection number and its title.
(b) Chapters in the proposal/paper must be capitalized, centered, and bolded
using 12 font size; and each new chapter should begin a new page.
(c) Except for tables, typing space should be 1.5; justified; and printed on one
side of the paper only.
(d) The research proposal/paper must be printed on good quality A4 paper.

6.2 Fonts
(a) All text(s) must be written in Times New Roman.
(b) All text(s) must be typed in font size 12 except for:
(i) Tables whose fonts may vary but not less than font size 8.
(ii) The main title of the research proposal/paper whose font size
should be 14.

6.3 Paragraphs
Begin each paragraph and each sub-heading by hitting the enter key once. The
paragraphs should be indented. Alignment of paragraphs should be below the
first letter of section or sub section title. Moreover, each sub sections in level two
and above should be indented against sections in level one.

6.4 Language
The research paper must be written in English (UK- English)

32
6.5 Treatment of abbreviations
The subject should be stated in full followed by the abbreviation or acronyms
placed in brackets the first time it appears.

Example:

Procurement and Supplies Professional and Technicians Board (PSPTB). In the

subsequent citations only the abbreviation PSPTB should be used in the
research proposal/paper and it should be included in the preliminary pages of the
document. It is not correct to use an ampersand (&) or a number e.g. 4th as part
of word in the text.

Exceptions to this rule include.

(i) Arabic numbers are used with the word percent or the percent sign (%),
e.g. 10%
(ii) Arabic numbers can be used in the following cases: time followed by a.m.
or p.m.; page numbers, designation of figure number, and data quoted
from a table or figure.

6.6 Quotations
Quotations incorporated in the text should have quotation marks be used in
unitalicized manner. Where a sentence or some words in the middle of a
sentence being quoted are omitted it should be indicated by three dots.

6.7 Pagination
(a) Paginate all preliminary pages from title page to be numbered in lower
case Roman numerals, i.e. i, ii, iii, iv….
(b) Page numbers for the research proposal or research paper body should
be in Arabic numerals, i.e. “1,” “2”, “3”, etc., consecutively, and throughout.
(c) All page numbers either in Roman or Arabic numbers should appear at the
bottom of the page, and should be centered.

33
6.8 Margins
(a) The left-hand margin must be 4.0 cm from the left edge of the paper.
(b) The right-hand margin must be 2.5 cm from the right edge.
(c) The top margin must be 4.0 cm from the top of the page.
(d) The bottom margin must be 2.5 cm from the bottom edge of the paper.

6.9 Capitalization and bolding of words

Candidates are allowed to bold or capitalize whenever they fill is necessary but
must be used consistently.

6.10 Table
(a) Candidates may put more than one table on the same page provided they
are separated.
(b) A table cannot be continued (broken) to the next page unless the titles
reappear in each table. The heading and the table itself are inseparable.
(c) Table should be referred to by their numbers and not by a phrase and
must be consecutive within the chapters. For example, the first table under
chapter two could be numbered as Table 2.1 and the second one as Table
2.2.
(d) Title number of the table must appear on top of each table while the
source of the materials in that table, should appear at the center bottom of
that table.

6.11 Figures
Any diagram, graph, or chart (including a photograph) should be referred as a
figure. Example: First figure in chapter 3 to be figure 3.1 while the fourth to be
Figure 3.4.

6.12 Footnotes and Endnotes

Candidates are not encouraged to use footnotes or endnotes in the text unless it
is absolutely necessary in which case they must be numbered sequentially within
the text.

34
6.13 Length of research proposal and report
A research proposal should range from a minimum of 25 to maximum of 50
pages only excluding preliminaries pages and appendices.

Likewise, Research Paper/ Report document should range from minimum of 60

to a maximum of 100 pages only excluding preliminary pages and appendices.

6.14 Referencing Style

There are number of referencing styles the research can adopt in referencing.
Under this discourse we use American Psychology Association (APA) reference
style which is the set of guidelines for effective scholarly communication that
helps writers’ present their ideas in clear, precise and inclusive manner.

When making reference to an author’s work in your text, their name is followed
by the year of publication of their work, and page reference, in brackets
(parentheses) and forms part of the sentence. Example: In general, when writing
for a professional publication, it is good practice to make reference, to other
relevant published work. This view has been supported in the work of Cormack
(1994, pp.32-33).

6.14.1 Author’s name not cited directly in the text

If you make reference to a work or piece of research without mentioning
the author in the text then both the author’s name and publication year are
placed at the relevant point in the sentence or at the end of the sentence
in brackets.

Making reference to published work appears to be characteristic of writing

for a professional audience (Cormack, 1994).

6.14.2 More than one author cited in the text

Where reference is made to more than one author in a sentence, and they
are referred to directly, they are both cited e.g Jones (1946) and Smith
(1948) have both shown……….

35
6.14.3 More than one author not cited directly in the text
List these at the relevant point in the sentence or at the end of the
sentence, putting the author’s name followed by the date of publication
and separated by a semi-colon and within brackets e.g. (Jones 1946;
Smith 1948).

6.14.4 Two authors for the same work

When there are two authors for a work, they should both be noted in the
text: White and Brown (1964) in their recent research paper found
…………………

Or

With regard to PREP and the role of libraries, Crane and Urquhart (1994)
suggest...........

Or indirectly, using an ampersand (&):

During the mid-nineties research undertaken in Luton (Slater & Jones,

1996) showed that……….

Earlier research (White & Brown, 1966) demonstrated that the presence of
certain chemicals would lead to…….

6.14.5 More than two authors for a work

Where there are several authors (more than two), only the first author
should be used, followed by ‘et al.’ meaning ‘and others’: Green, et al.
(1995) found that the majority……………………

Or indirectly:

Recent research has found that the majority of …… (Green, et al., 1995).

36
6.14.6 No author source
If the author cannot be identified use ‘Anon’’ which include the title of the
work and date of publication. The title should be written in Italics. Every
effort should be made to establish the authorship if you intend to use the
work as supporting evidence in an academic submission. Marketing
strategy (Anon 1999)

6.14.7 Page numbers

Including the page numbers of a reference will help readers trace your
sources. This is particularly important for quotations and for paraphrasing
specific paragraphs in the texts:

Lawrence (1966, p. 124)

Or indirectly:

(Lawrence, 1966, p.124)

6.14.8 Several works by one author in different years

If more than one publication from an author illustrates the same point and
the works are published in different years, then the references should be
cited in chronological order (i.e. earliest first):

As suggested by Bloggs (1992, 1994)

Or indirectly:

(Bloggs 1992, 1994) ……

6.14.9 Several works by one author in the same year

If you are quoting several works published by the same author in the same
year, they should be differentiated by adding a lower-case letter after the
year for each item: Earlier research by Smith (1993a) found that……but
later research suggested again by Smith (1993b) that……

37
 If several works published in the same year are referred to on a single
occasion-or an author has made the same point in several publications
they can all be referred to by using lower case letters (as above):

Bloggs (1993a, b) has stated on more than one occasion that….

6.14.10 Quoting Portions of Published Text

If you want to include text from a published work in your essay then the
sentence(s) must be included within quotation marks, and may be
introduced by such phrases as

The author states that ‘…………’ or …the author writes that ‘…….’

In order for a reader to trace the quoted section it is good practice to give
the number of the page where the quotation was found. The quotation
should also be emphasized (especially if it runs to several lines) by
indenting it and using quotation marks. This clearly identifies it as the work
of someone else:

On the topic of professional writing and referencing Cormack (1994, p.32)

states: “when writing for a professional readership, writers invariably make
reference to already published works”.

When the quoted portion contains 40 words and above, the quoted portion
should be indented and line space should be 1.0.

6.14.11 Chapter authors in edited works

References to the work of an author that appear as a chapter, or part of
larger work, that is edited by someone else, should be cited within your
text using the name of the contributory author and not the editor of the
whole volume: In his work on health information, Smith (1975) states….

In the reference list at the end of your document, you should include
details of both the chapter author and the editor of the entire work.

38
6.14.12 Referencing Citation
(a) Books

Use the title page, not the book cover, for the reference details. The
required elements for a book reference are:

Author, initials/First name., Year.

Title of book. Edition. Publisher, and Place of Publication:

Example:
Redman, P., 2006. Good essay writing: a social sciences guide.
3rded. London: Open University in assoc. with Sage.

(b) Books with two, three or four authors

Books with two, three or four authors of equal status the names
should all be included in the order they appear in the document.
Use an ampersand (&) to link the last two multiple authors. The
required elements for reference are:

Authors, Initials., Year. Title of book. Edition. (Only include this if

not the first edition) Place: Publisher.

Example:
Barker, R. Kirk, J. & Munday, R.j., 1988. Narrative analysis. 3rd ed.
Bloomington: Indiana University Press.

(c) Books with more than four authors

Books where there are more than four authors, use the first author
only surname and initials followed by “et al”. The required elements
for a reference are:

Author, Initials., Year. Title of book. Edition. (only include this if not
the first edition) Place: Publisher.

39
 Example:
Grace, B. et al., 1988. A history of the world. Princeton, NJ:
Princeton University Press.

(d) Books which are edited

Books which are edited give the editor (s) surname (s) and initials,
followed by ed. Or eds.
Author, Initials., Year. Title of book. Edition. (only include this if not
the first edition) Place: Publisher.
Example:
Keene, E. ed., 1988. Natural language. Cambridge: University of
Cambridge Press.

6.14.13 Multiple works by the same author

Where there are several works by one author and published in the same
year they should be differentiated by adding a lower-case letter after the
date. Remember that this must also be consistent with the citations in the
text.

Therefore, multiple works required elements for a reference are:

Author, Year. Title of book. Place of Publication: Publisher.
Examples:
(i) Soros, G., 1966a. The road to serfdom. Chicago: University of
Chicago Press.
(ii) Soros, G., 1966b. Beyond the road to serfdom. Chicago: University
of Chicago Press.
Books which have been translated
Works which have been translated the reference should include details of
the translator hence references are written as;
Author, Year. Title of book. Translated from (language) by name of the
translator Place of publication: Publisher.

40
Example:
Canetti, Elias., 2001. The voices of Marrakesh: a record of a visit.
Translated from German by J.A. Underwood. San Francisco: Arion.

E-books
For e-books the required elements for a reference are:
Author, Year, Title of book. [type of medium] Place of publication:
Publisher. Followed by “Available at:” include e-book source and web site
address/URL (Uniform Resource Locator) and routing details if needed.
(Accessed date).
Example:
Carlsen, J. & Charters, S., eds. 2007. Global wine tourism. [e-book]
Wallingford: CABI Pub.

Journal articles and newspapers

Journal articles for journal articles the required elements for a reference
are: Author, Initials., Year. Title of article. Full Title of Journal, Volume
number (Issue/Part number), Page numbers.
Example:
Bougton, J.M., 2002. The Bretton Woods proposal: an in-depth look.
Political science Quarterly, 42 (6), pp.564-78.

Journal articles from an electronic source and news papers

For journal articles from an electronic source the required elements for a
reference are: Author, Initials, Year, Title or article. Full title of Newspaper,
Day and month before page numbers of article.

Example:
Mwakanjata, G, 2005. NBMM to be transformed: A challenge to
professionals. Daily News, 3 Sep. P.4-5

Journal abstract from a database

For a journal abstract from a database where you have been unable to
access the full article, the required elements for a reference are:

41
Author, Initials., Year. Title of article. Full Title of Journal, [type of medium]
Volume number (Issue/part number), Page numbers if available, abstract
only. Available at: include web site address/URL (Uniform Resource
Locator) and additional details of access. [Accessed date].

The URL should be:

Boughton, J.M., 2002. The Bretton woods Proposal: an in-depth look.
Political Science Quarterly, (online) 42 (6) Abstract from Blackwell science
synergy database. Available at: http://www.pol.uoenn/articles, Blackwell
Science Synergy (Accessed 12 June 2005).

Every effort should be made to read the article in full if you intend to use
this work as supporting evidence in an academic submission.

Internet
Websites found on the internet the required elements for a reference are:
Author, Initials, Year. Title of document or page. (type of medium)
Available at: include website address/URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
and additional details of access, such as the routine from the home page
of the source. N.B. the URL should be underlined (Accessed date)

Example:
National electronic Library for Health. 2003. Can walking make you
slimmer and healthier? (hitting the Headlines article) (online) (updated 16
Jan.2005) available at: http://www.hns.uk.hth.walking (accessed 10 April
2005)

E-version of annual reports

For an e-version of an annual report (or other document) the required

elements for a reference are:
Author or corporate author, Year. Title of document or page, (type of
medium) Available at: include website address/URL (Uniform Resource
Locator) and additional details of access, such as the routing from the

42
 home page of the source. N.B. the URL should be underlined (Accessed
date)
Example:
Marks & Spencer, 2004 Annual report 2003-2004 (online) available at
http://www-marks-and-spencer.co.uk/corporate/annual2003/ (accessed 4
June 2005).

6.14.14 Website information

For websites the required elements for a reference are: author or
corporate author, year. Title of document (type of medium) Available at:
include website address/URL (Uniform Resource Locator) and additional
details or access, such as the routing from the home page of the source.
N.B. the URL should be underlined (Accessed date) Note that this
example includes details of when the website was updated:

Example:
National electronic Library for Health. 2003 can walking make you slimmer
and healthier? (Hitting the headlines article) (online) updated (16th
January 2005) available at http://www.hns.uk.hth.walking (accessed 10th
April 2005).

6.14.15 Publications available from websites

For publications found on the internet the required elements for a
reference are:
Author or corporate author, Year. Title of document. (Type of medium).
Available at: include web site address/ URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
and additional details of access, such as the routing from the homepage of
the source. N.B the URL should be underlined (Accessed date).

Example:
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines. 2001. Hypertension in the elderly.
(SIGN publication 20) (Internet). Edinburgh: SIGN (Published 2001).

43
 available at: http://www.sign.ac.uk/pdf/sign49.pdf (accessed 17th March
2005)
OR
Boots Group Plc., 2003. Corporate social responsibility. (Online). Boots
Group Plc. Available at Http://www.Boots-
Plc.Com/Information/Info.Asp?Level1id=447&Level2id=0 (accessed 23
July 2005)

6.14.16 Dissertation reference

Researcher, Initials/First name., (Year). Title of Dissertation. Owner
Institution. Region.

Example:
Sikudhani, D., (2018). An assessment of procurement challenges in Public
Entities: The case of MSD and GPSA. TIA. Dar es Salaam.

6.14.17 Arrangement of references.

All references should be arranged from A to Z. The second and next lines
should be indented one step (2cm) from the first line.

44
APPENDICES

Appendix I
A sample of a cover page

4cm

CHALLENGES OF OVERSEAS PROCUREMENT:

A CASE STUDY OF THE NATIONAL BOARD FOR MATERIAL

MANAGEMENT

4cm 2.5cm

Appendix II
A sample of a title page

2.5cm

45
 4cm

CHALLENGES OF OVERSEAS PROCUREMNET

A CASE STUDY OF THE NATIONAL BOARD FOR MATERIAL

MANAGEMENT

4cm 2.5 cm

BY
MAGOMA MOTO MTONI
CR-0009

Research paper submitted in partial/fulfillment of the requirement for the award of

Certified Procurement and Supplies Professional (CPSP) of the Procurement and
Supplies Professional and Technicians Board

November, 2009

2.5 cm

46
Appendix III
A sample of a spine

47
48