The Cluster Random Sample and Entering the Golf Ball Market

Question 1
Data about a population that is subject to research can be enormous and difficult to handle, necessitating the use of sampling techniques to narrow down the size of participants. Sampling techniques can be classified into two broad categories: probabilistic and non-probabilistic sampling, which can further be subdivided into numerous other types (Sharma, 2017). Under probabilistic sampling, there are simple-random, cluster, stratified and systematic sampling that one may choose from depending on different circumstances and when deemed fit by the researcher.
Cluster sampling is appropriate when the researcher seeks to establish a fact about a large population provided there are available metrics that can be used for clustering. A perfect example where cluster sampling would be applicable is while researching the prevalence of drug abuse among high school-going kids in a country, say the United States. The population of the United States is quite large, and other techniques such as simple random sampling might not be appropriate. The population can be clustered into states, where a few states that depict the characteristics of most states are selected at random for further clustering. Cities can be used as the subsequent clustering, which can further be narrowed down to schools. This is a typical example of a multi-stage cluster sampling technique. Once the final clustering unit has been established, the different elements of the clusters can be deduced to make substantive researches and observations that would be used in making conclusions.
Cluster sampling demands less traveling and listing, increasing its economical viability (Sharma, 2017). The use of clusters also greatly reduces the time taken during research. With the idea that the clusters are selected at random, there is a high probability that the sample size will reflect the typical nature of the entire population. Selecting more clusters increases the sample size while reducing variability.