Building on the past: advancing theory in services through meta-analysis
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to offer a reflection on the role that meta-analysis can play in theory building for service phenomena.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper illustrates the benefits of conducting meta-analysis, presents its basic steps, and then uses an example to illustrate how meta-analytic findings can be used to enrich and develop theory.
Findings
Meta-analytic findings allow identifying gaps in current theories, thereby offering the opportunity to develop new research. Theoretical advancement through meta-analysis can imply theory borrowing, mutual theoretical development with other disciplines, intradisciplinary and multidisciplinary theorizing.
Practical implications
Experienced researchers might use this essay to better understand how meta-analysis can be used to generate new relevant research. Young researchers and PhD students may benefit from a greater use of meta-analysis to gain a thorough knowledge of their research topic and about the areas that require further exploration.
Originality/value
Rather than thinking of meta-analysis mainly as the conclusion of a well-researched domain and a good summary of cites, this essay underlines to the service scholar community how meta-analysis can boost theoretical advancement in services.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Yves Van Vaerenbergh for his suggestions on an earlier version of this paper.
Citation
Orsingher, C., Hogreve, J. and Ordanini, A. (2016), "Building on the past: advancing theory in services through meta-analysis", Journal of Service Management, Vol. 27 No. 1, pp. 37-42. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOSM-04-2015-0126
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited