What type of research is conducted on a one-off basis to address a specific issue?

Ad-hoc research is specifically designed to be conducted on a one-off basis to address a particular issue or question. This type of research is typically initiated in response to an immediate need for information, enabling organizations to make informed decisions based on specific circumstances. It focuses on gathering data that is relevant to a single, unique problem rather than following a continuous or repeated pattern of inquiry.

In contrast, longitudinal research involves collecting data over an extended period to observe changes and trends over time, while exploratory research seeks to uncover underlying motivations or reasons behind certain behaviors, typically without focusing on a predefined set of issues. Descriptive research aims to provide a comprehensive snapshot of a situation or demographic, often employing systematic statistics rather than addressing a specific, singular question. All these other types have distinct objectives that do not align with the immediacy and specificity required of ad-hoc research.