Cause Mapping in Strategic Management Research: Processes, Issues, and Observations

Abstract

Our primary objective is to provide method-related broad guidelines to researchers on the entire spectrum of issues involved in cause mapping and to encourage researchers to use causal mapping techniques in strategy research. We challenge strategists to open the black box and investigate the mental models that depict the cause and effect beliefs of managers, “walk” readers through the causal mapping process by discussing the “nuts and bolts” of cause mapping, provide an illustration, and outline “key issues to consider.” We conclude with a discussion of some promising research directions.

Citation

Gnyawali, D.R. and Tyler, B.B. (2005), "Cause Mapping in Strategic Management Research: Processes, Issues, and Observations", Ketchen, D.J. and Bergh, D.D. (Ed.) Research Methodology in Strategy and Management (Research Methodology in Strategy and Management, Vol. 2), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 225-257. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1479-8387(05)02010-2