Title
PLS-Based Model Selection: The Role of Alternative Explanations in Information Systems Research
Abstract
Exploring theoretically plausible alternative models for explaining the phenomenon under study is a crucial step in advancing scientific knowledge. This paper advocates model selection in information systems (IS) studies that use partial least squares path modeling (PLS) and suggests the use of model selection criteria derived from information theory for this purpose. These criteria allow researchers to compare alternative models and select a parsimonious yet well-fitting model. However, as our review of prior IS research practice shows, their use-while common in the econometrics field and in factor-based SEM-has not found its way into studies using PLS. Using a Monte Carlo study, we compare the performance of several model selection criteria in selecting the best model from a set of competing models under different model set-ups and various conditions of sample size, effect size, and loading patterns. Our results suggest that appropriate model selection cannot be achieved by relying on the PLS criteria (i.e., R-2, Adjusted R-2, GoF, and Q(2)), as is the current practice in academic research. Instead, model selection criteria-in particular, the Bayesian information criterion (BIC) and the Geweke-Meese criterion (GM)-should be used due to their high model selection accuracy and ease of use. To support researchers in the adoption of these criteria, we introduce a five-step procedure that delineates the roles of model selection and statistical inference and discuss misconceptions that may arise in their use.
Year
DOI
Venue
2019
10.17005/1.jais.00538
JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Keywords
Field
DocType
Information Criteria,Partial Least Squares (PLS),Structural Equation Modeling (SEM),Model Selection,Model Selection Criteria,Monte Carlo Study
Information systems research,Information Criteria,Computer science,Model selection,Management science
Journal
Volume
Issue
ISSN
20
4
1536-9323
Citations 
PageRank 
References 
0
0.34
0
Authors
5
Name
Order
Citations
PageRank
Pratyush Nidhi Sharma1284.76
Marko Sarstedt2908.60
Galit Shmueli326523.00
Kevin H. Kim400.34
Kai Oliver Thiele500.34