Putting AIM in context: Retrospective and prospective views on UK management research initiatives

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically review the relationship between management research and practice particularly in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of an historical survey of initiatives and different conceptual approaches.

Findings

The paper reveals a central focus on the role of management consultants in mediating between management practice and management knowledge,

Research limitations/implications

The paper is a partial and limited analysis of a complex process: more work is needed to untangle the various institutional roles and conceptual frameworks.

Practical implications

Re‐framing the relationship between management research and practice to consider a greater emphasis on practice engaged scholarship and the two way process of knowledge translation.

Originality/value

The paper encourages a new perspective amongst policy makers, researchers and management consultants.

Citation

Wensley, R. (2009), "Putting AIM in context: Retrospective and prospective views on UK management research initiatives", Management Decision, Vol. 47 No. 9, pp. 1476-1484. https://doi.org/10.1108/00251740910995675