Evidence-based Entrepreneurship (EBE): A systematic approach to cumulative science

Research output: Contributions to collected editions/worksChapterpeer-review

Authors

The concept and aim of an evidence-based entrepreneurship (EBE) is discussed as a strategy to overcome the divide between knowledge developed in the field of entrepreneurship and its use in practice. Evidence constitutes the best summary of knowledge based on several sources of information (several studies, several different research groups, several different methodological approaches, among them the best methods available), all of which go beyond individual experience and isolated studies. We argue that meta-analyses can and should be used in entrepreneurship research (and that it should also be used for qualitative work). Meta-analyses establish certain relationships; these should then be summarized in well-founded models and theories that can be translated into action principles. These action principles can then be used by EBE's constituents. These include scientists, professionals who regularly deal with entrepreneurs (bankers, consultants, venture capital providers), policy makers (e.g., government), students of entrepreneurship, and, last but not least, the entrepreneurs themselves. Once, a set of action principles have been developed from science, the application of them can be tested with the help of further evidence on the efficacy of interventions (including meta-analyses on the interventions). Evidencebased entrepreneurship (EBE) has the potential to change research, teaching, and practice.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Oxford handbook of evidence-based management
EditorsDenise M. Rosseau
Number of pages20
Place of PublicationOxford
PublisherOxford University Press
Publication date18.09.2012
Pages92-111
ISBN (print)978-0-19-976398-6
ISBN (electronic)9780199968879
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18.09.2012

    Research areas

  • Management studies
  • Action plans, Entrepreneurs, Evidence-based entrepreneurship, Meta-analysis, Systematic review, Training