Edinburgh Napier University

  We review the methodological rigor of empirical quantitative studies that have investigated the training and organisational performance relationship. Through a content analysis of 219 studies published in quality journals, we reveal significant validity threats (internal, external construct and statistical conclusion validity) that raise questions about the methodological rigor of the field. Our findings suggest that the time is appropriate for a renewed methodological endeavour to understanding the relationship between training and organisational performance. We make specific recommendations to enhance methodological rigor and generate research finding will enhance operationalisation of theory, help researchers to make inferences about causality and inform the decision making of HRD practitioners.