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Construct Measurement in Strategic Management: Key Issues and Debate

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Abstract

Constructs constitute the building blocks of theories. Construct measurement represents a key task for any scholar attempting to develop a theoretical contribution or an empirical study. In this chapter, we offer an overview of the measurement process, commonly portrayed in terms of technical issues, such as the validity or the reliability. In contrast, we highlight the importance of conceptualizing constructs and see validity as an ontological issue, not a mere technical problem. We also provide a brief reconstruction of the debate among those who state that management scholars should favor precision and those who, in contrast, advocate for openness in construct measurement. We analyze benefits and pitfalls in both position and we embrace a view that balances the two opposing views by seeking for clarity in construct measurement.

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Meglio, O. (2020). Construct Measurement in Strategic Management: Key Issues and Debate. In: Mergers and Acquisitions. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-40459-8_1

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