It is common for researchers in strategy to iterate between theory and data to arrive at hypotheses, as researchers refine ideas, understanding of samples, and measurement. However, these results are often presented as tests of theories even though the iterative research distorts p-values and standard errors. This PDW explores why this is a problem and then explores solutions. We then consider how to restructure and publish papers in a way that more accurately maps to implemented research processes and removes pressure to make hypotheses “work”. Journal editors Rajshree Agrawal (Strategic Management Journal), Gary Dushnitsky (Strategic Entrepreneurship Journal), Alfonso Gambardella (Management Science), and Dan Levinthal (Strategy Science) will discuss editorial policies towards explicitly abductive work. The PDW will conclude with two “transition showcases” where authors report on rewriting their papers for a post-hypothesis world. This presentation was part of the SMS 41st Annual Conference held virtually.
