The Use of Meta-Analysis in Mis Research: Promises and Problems

Meta-analysis involves the use of statistical procedures to integrate research findings across studies. Although it has been warmly embraced in those fields in which experiments are widely used, its application by MIS researchers is very limited. This research explores issues that are important to the conduct and evaluation of metaanalysis. The paper shows that meta-analysis has important advantages over traditional reviews. The potential application of meta-analysis in research integration and theory development and testing is discussed. The use of metaanalysis in MIS research in the past is reviewed. Opportunities for increased use of meta-analysis in the future are investigated. Limitations and potential problems of meta-analysis are discussed to facilitate the evaluation of metaanalysis results. With these issues clarified, this research should increase the interest of MIS researchers in meta-analysis and its applications.