Working Paper: NBER ID: w20971
Authors: Greg Fischer; Dean Karlan
Abstract: We document the presence of multiple and varied constraints to small and medium firm growth. This presents both a practical problem for business training programs and a challenge to academic economists trying to identify mechanisms though which these programs may affect outcomes. External validity needs theory. This pushes researchers to narrowly defined and highly selected sample frames, which limits the potential for clear, generalizable policy prescriptions. Ultimately, larger samples, multi-arm evaluations, process documentation, and narrowly-focused, theory-supported empirical work are all needed, but the complexity of the problem limits what we learn from any single study.
Keywords: No keywords provided
JEL Codes: M10; O10
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| Management quality (L15) | Firm performance (L25) |
| Training programs (M53) | Firm outcomes (L21) |
| Financial problems (G01) | Training in finance (G29) |
| Human resource issues (O15) | Assistance in that area (F35) |
| Removing one obstacle (Y60) | Improved outcomes (I14) |
| Tailored consulting and mentoring programs (M53) | Effectiveness over one-size-fits-all training solutions (M53) |