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Why Many Research Instruments Lack Face Validity—And How to Fix It

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Why Many Research Instruments Fail Face Validity

Face validity is the most intuitive—and often the most ignored—dimension of measurement quality. If respondents cannot immediately understand what a question measures, the resulting data become fragile, regardless of high Cronbach’s alpha, AVE, or composite reliability. Poor face validity leads to misinterpretation, satisficing, social desirability distortions, and ultimately flawed statistical conclusions. In reality, many survey … Read more

Innovation Isn’t Enough — Top Journals Want Theoretical Contribution

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Innovation Isn’t Enough—Top Journals Want Theoretical Contribution

In today’s publish-or-perish world, many authors believe that simply showing something new or interesting is enough to get their manuscript accepted. Yet, as editorial teams of leading journals stress, novelty alone won’t cut it. What matters more is how your work shifts or extends existing theory. Put differently: It’s not enough to ask “What’s new?” … Read more

Why Theories Stay Cited, Not Applied

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The research world is full of theories—TAM, TPB, SDT, DOI, Social Learning Theory, and more. They appear across dissertations, journal articles, and conference papers. Yet most theories function as cosmetic citations, not analytical frameworks. Researchers cite them for legitimacy, but rarely apply them rigorously. At Research & Report Consulting, our reviews of 500+ academic manuscripts … Read more

Triangulation Isn’t Just About Using Three Methods

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Understanding the Real Meaning of Triangulation In academic and applied research, triangulation is often misunderstood. Many believe it simply means using “three methods” to collect data. However, triangulation is not about the number three—it’s about cross-verifying evidence from multiple sources or perspectives to improve the credibility, reliability, and depth of research findings. This approach prevents … Read more

Why Mixing Too Many Theories Fails in Research

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Why Mixing Too Many Theories Fails in Research

When researchers layer too many theories, they often think “more breadth = more rigor.” But the opposite often occurs. Below are four critical, but commonly overlooked, issues that weaken research—even when the intent is “comprehensive.” Common but Hidden Pitfalls Conceptual Conflict & Epistemological Clash Every theory carries assumptions about knowledge (epistemology). When researchers mix theories … Read more

Why Most Qualitative Validations Fail

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Why Most Qualitative Validations Fail

Qualitative research is rich. But richness alone doesn’t guarantee validity. In fact, many qualitative studies fail validation due to subtle, often overlooked flaws. At Research & Report Consulting, we’ve audited hundreds of studies and identified recurring critical issues that most researchers don’t realize. Fixing these can elevate your findings from “interesting” to trustworthy. Key Issues … Read more

Structural Equation Models Fail Without Identification

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Why Identification Matters in SEM Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is one of the most powerful tools in quantitative research. It allows scholars to test complex theories, measure latent constructs, and model mediation or moderation effects. Researchers often call SEM the “gold standard” of statistical modeling. However, a hidden truth is often ignored: SEM collapses without … Read more

Pilot Studies Are Not Final Research

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Pilot Studies Are Not Final Research

Pilot studies are essential for modern research. They help scholars test feasibility, refine tools, and identify potential challenges. However, pilot studies are not final research. Treating them as conclusive undermines credibility, misguides policy, and damages trust in science. This article explains the role of pilot studies, highlights common pitfalls, and offers practical solutions for using … Read more

The Statistical Assumption Risks of Likert Data

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The Statistical Assumption Risks of Likert Data

Likert scales remain a staple in social science, management, and policy research. Their simplicity—“strongly disagree” to “strongly agree”—makes them appealing for capturing opinions. Yet, their misuse often leads to statistical pitfalls that undermine credibility. This article explains the risks, provides solutions, and highlights best practices with supporting evidence. Why Likert Scales Are Popular Despite their … Read more

Thematic Analysis Without Rigor Is Not Science

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Thematic Analysis Without Rigor Is Not Science

Thematic analysis is one of the most widely used qualitative methods in social sciences, policy research, and applied studies. Its popularity comes from flexibility and accessibility. It enables researchers to uncover hidden meanings and identify themes across interviews, focus groups, and documents. However, there is a critical challenge: without rigor, thematic analysis loses credibility. Instead … Read more