CARISCA Training Series – Striving for Generalizability: An Introduction to Meta-Analysis

Generalizability—the applicability of research findings to a larger population than those in the study—is critical for researchers who wish to make an impact. One approach to consider is meta-analysis.

A subset of systematic literature reviews, meta-analysis combines data from numerous sources. Thus it allows researchers to draw more generalizable conclusions than would be possible from individual studies alone.

On Aug. 30, the CARISCA Training Series returns with a session on meta-analysis led by Rudi Leuschner, associate professor of supply chain management at Rutgers University in New Jersey. Leuschner has been the lead author of three meta-analysis studies published in the Journal of Supply Chain Management.

While already widespread in certain disciplines, the use of meta-analysis is now growing within supply chain management. With an increasing number of studies being published across multiple topics, this tool enables the field to guide future research.

It also enhances the credibility of research outcomes and facilitates the translation of research findings into practical applications. Lastly, meta-analysis aids in advancing scientific knowledge by highlighting gaps in research and guiding future investigation.

The CARISCA Training will cover key concepts, methodology and strategies used in meta-analytical research. Participants will gain an understanding of how this methodology can be used to create a systematic quantitative summary of existing research in supply chain management.

Specifically, participants will review the overall logic of meta-analytic studies, sample selection, meta-analytic calculations and insights drawn from meta-analytic studies.

About the speaker:

Rudi Leuschner is an associate professor of supply chain management at Rutgers Business School and program director for the online Master of Science in Supply Chain Management program. He is at the forefront of online education as the faculty coordinator for distance and online learning and the creator of the supply chain management MOOC specialization.

Leuschner’s research focuses on the end-to-end supply chain and the integration of its three primary flows: products, information and finances. Specifically, in the new field of supply chain finance, he has been active in developing relevant insights for academic and practitioner audiences.

He co-developed the Rutgers Business School Payment Practices Index, which ranks retailers’ performance. His work has appeared in many top-ranked journals, and he has been a frequent speaker at academic as well as practitioner conferences.