The combined research approach was applied for this particular business consultancy project – both qualitative and quantitative research techniques are implemented, using a case study research method.
Furthermore, internal data evaluations, participant observations, semi-structured and in-depth interviews and questionnaires were employed throughout the process for the purpose of the research.
Personal and telephone interviews have been conducted by using the questionnaires containing open- ended questions aimed at identification and analysis of customers’ requirements and expectations in MFS field (Appendix No. 1).
On the other hand, the experts from financial field – leading banks and specialists from payment processing and online payment portals, have been also interviewed to obtain information on the current market situation and consumers’ demand for MFS.
Moreover, questionnaires were distributed through the internet to estimate the awareness of potential customers and readiness for the usage of MFS. The analysis of data collected from around 214 respondents shed light on the attitude of potential customers to MFS and degree of understanding and acceptance of this service in Azerbaijan.
Questions contained in the interview forms and questionnaires related to the research topic, including financial and telecom specifics are reflected in the attached interview protocols (Appendix No.1).The list of respondents evolves: CEOs of online payment portals, representative of the payment processing company, experts and managers from the leading banks of Azerbaijan and professionals from Azercell.
Secondary Data was obtained from an array of sources such as, mobile industry reports, reports of World Bank and other data sources reviewed and analyzed by applying of the various academic tools.
Meanwhile, being a participant – observant, implied benefits of obtaining the primary data from the Azercell reports and as a result of formal and informal discussions with colleagues inside the organization.
Hence, semi-structured interviews with colleagues, industry experts, and questionnaires were conducted during the research process.
Furthermore, analysis of current situation including SWOT, PEST, Porter’s five forces and seven pillar model of assessment of the MFS development in the country has been executed relying on the data collected based on close cooperation with colleagues and other related sources.