The scientific theory‐building process: a primer using the case of TQM

This tutorial presents a process map approach to the nature of scientific knowledge, and proceeds through the stages of the theory-building process, using illustrations from OM research in Total Quality Management.

Abstract

Abstract As Operations Management (OM) researchers begin to undertake and publish more empirical research, there is a need to understand the nature of the scientific theory‐building process implicit in this activity. This tutorial presents a process map approach to this process. We begin by defining the nature of scientific knowledge, and proceed through the stages of the theory‐building process, using illustrations from OM research in Total Quality Management. The tutorial ends with a discussion of the criteria for OM journal reviewers to consider in evaluating theory‐driven empirical research, and suggests a number of OM topic areas that require greater theory development.