Using Archival Data for I-O Research: Advantages, Pitfalls, Sources, and Examples

摘要: Two particular sets of experiences sparked our interest in writing this TIP article. The first was increasing difficulty getting access to “new” organization-based samples. Depending on the topic and commitment involved, many organizations appear too leery and/or strapped these days allow for primary data collection. In addition, we have all experienced disappointment spending numerous hours research proposals meetings with organizational personnel, only “plug pulled” at last minute a promising line Conversely, also had experience researchers who are willing interested partnering analyze existing company data. A second that supervising graduate student theses dissertations. Students likely even more than faculty gaining As result, they often end up collecting survey “working students” or other campusbased convenience Although realize may be appropriate subjects, depending questions being asked, it has been students resort strategy when not appropriate, once find can’t obtain Given experiences, thought short article outlining some key issues using archival I-O would readers. We by no means foresee (or propose) use becoming principal “data collection strategy” within psychology. Rather, see as an underutilized tool added current future psychologists’ methodological toolbox. extensive working variety sources data, there about which someone new area needs aware. necessary brevity article, refer readers references cited throughout rest paper detailed discussion raised below.