Research-informed management (RIM): A generalized paradigm of research-use

Speaker

Thomas Fischer

University of Geneva

Abstract

I critically examine the ideas underlying evidence-based management (EBM) and show why EBM is a valuable but too limited paradigm for using research in organizations. I present research-informed management (RIM) as a generalized paradigm that overcomes these limitations. As a first step, I show how EBM relies on pragmatic rationality to provide knowledge for solving organizational problems and pursuing desired goals more effectively. In this way, EBM shifts authority in organizations from individuals and their positions to the application of evidence, which can serve the interests of multiple stakeholders and constrain the pursuit of managerial self-interest. In a second step, however, I show that EBM overlooks the ambiguous and socially constructed nature of organizational problems and management knowledge. Organizational problems are not simply "out there" waiting to be solved but result from struggles over organizational goals and priorities. Similarly, management knowledge is not simply "out there" waiting to be applied to solve organizational problems, but also legitimizes certain power relations. In a third step, I show how the fusion of EBM with insights from critical management scholarship (CMS) into RIM allows research to be used to both solve and define organizational problems, and to account for both the substantive utility and symbolic legitimation functions of management knowledge. Taken together, RIM stands in the tradition of EBM but relaxes some restrictive assumptions about the nature of organizational problems and knowledge, allowing for a broader use of research and thus improving management practice.

This seminar will take place in person in room T09-67, Mandeville Building. Alternatively, click here to join the seminar online.

Meeting ID: 949 0543 4224