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A Framework for Management Research
A Paradigm Shift for Managers and Researchers
There are strong arguments for the practice of evidenced-based management. But, currently, most managers do not consistently make decisions on the basis of formal evidence, and, even when they seek it, the availability of systematic evidence is sparse. To remedy this situation - to move toward acceptance and widespread practice of evidenced-based management on a par with evidence-based clinical practice - there must be a paradigm shift in attitude and actions of both managers and researchers.
Managers will need to focus more on using empirical
evidence to make decisions rather than relying solely on consultants
and management gurus without determining if their solutions have been
successful in the past. Reviewing empirically based research can
provide a reference for what has already been shown to be successful
or not. While most healthcare managers do not have a background in
research methodology, they need to be more accepting and willing to
learn from empirical research.
Researchers need to better focus research
questions on the real and immediate needs of organizations. To
achieve this goal they must put more effort into establishing closer
relationships with management. Researchers' objectives should be
to explain and predict the consequences of managerial actions instead
of just trying to understand the life of the organization.
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