The growing role of advanced Human Resource Management research methods

Scientific progress is based on the continued evolution and interplay of theory and method. Theoretical developments suggest promising lines of inquiry and new research questions for empirical examination. Methodological advances provide improved tools with which to undertake research. Over the past two decades, major theoretical advances in Human Resource Management (HRM) research have contributed to a growing understanding of the relationship between HRM and performance. For example, Bowen and Ostroff (2004) proposed advanced theoretical models that outline how an understanding of multi-level phenomena can help to open the so-called black box. They argued that HR practices at the organizational level influence employee attitudes and behaviors on the individual level, and employee attitudes and behaviors influence performance on the organizational level