What is the development of a model that shows variables and their proposed relationships?

The development of a model that shows variables and their proposed relationships is best described as conceptualization. This process involves forming an abstract idea or theory that outlines how different variables connect and interact within a specific context. It serves as a foundational step in research, allowing researchers to frame their studies based on the relationships and dynamics that they anticipate will exist among the variables being examined.

By establishing clear definitions and interactions of the key variables, conceptualization provides a structured way to visualize and communicate the underlying ideas driving the research. It helps in guiding the methodology and enhances the understanding of the concepts being studied, which is essential when conducting marketing analysis and research.

In contrast, while a theoretical framework also serves as a vital part of research by providing a systematic structure for understanding the topic, it is typically broader and might incorporate existing theories rather than just the proposed relationships among specific variables. Operationalization refers to the process of defining and measuring the variables identified during conceptualization. Data analysis, on the other hand, involves examining the data collected to draw conclusions, and it occurs after the conceptualization and operationalization stages.