Is pursuing a PhD without theoretical and conceptual framework a journey without roadmap?

Theoretical and conceptual frameworks are essential components of the research process, although they are often misinterpreted by doctorate candidates during the development of their dissertation study. The purpose of this paper is to emphasise the critical role that theoretical and conceptual frameworks play in enhancing the rigour and clarity of research. This is an argumentative paper that uses information as evidence to back up its claims. The authors used this methodological framework to espouse the need that doctoral research should have a valid theoretical framework to justify the importance and significance of the work in order to contribute to knowledge in their field of study. The study clarifies two sometimes misinterpreted terms: conceptual and theoretical frameworks. According to the authors, the decision to use a theoretical or conceptual framework is influenced by the research goals, study characteristics, and available literature. Conceptual frameworks are typically used in qualitative and mixed methods research, although theoretical frameworks are used more frequently in quantitative and mixed methods research. Mastery of conceptual and theoretical knowledge in construction management research allows researchers to develop clear, well-structured enquiries, improve methodological rigour, and successfully integrate theory to practice, resulting in innovative ideas in the field. The paper discusses the importance of including a theoretical and/or conceptual framework in a doctoral thesis focussing on construction management research. It states that these frameworks are critical for defining the student's research direction. The study emphasises that understanding 'concept' and 'theory' allows for the successful use of conceptual and theoretical frameworks to provide direction and coherence throughout the research proce