1) The brief states what the research needs to find out.  The brief is written by the client and sent to potential suppliers (up to four is best). 

• How to Write a Research Brief

2) Each potential supplier writes a proposal, recommending how to carry out the research, how much it will cost, how long it will take.

• How to Assess Research Proposals 

3) The chosen supplier conducts fieldwork.  Depending on the type of research, this means designing questionnaires; carrying out interviews, observations or focus groups; gathering data.

4) The supplier analyses the data.  

5) The supplier reports the results.