Date: 19 May 2026 (Tuesday)
Time: 4: 30 pm – 5: 30 pm
Topic: Using SmartPLS4 for Data Analysis in Social Science Research
Platform: Zoom
Speaker:
Nicole Franziska Richter
Full Professor of International Management
University of Southern Denmark
Abstract:
Structural equation modeling (SEM) has become an essential tool in social science research for analyzing complex relationships between latent constructs—for example, when examining how human resource management practices influence employee satisfaction and commitment, which in turn may affect performance.
In recent years, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) has gained increasing attention due to its strengths in prediction-oriented research, its ability to handle complex models, and its flexibility with respect to data characteristics. PLS-SEM can be implemented in a range of software packages, with SmartPLS widely regarded as an industry standard owing to its rich functionality and ease of use.
This session provides a concise, practice-oriented introduction to PLS-SEM, with a particular focus on its implementation using SmartPLS 4. It begins with a brief conceptual overview of PLS-SEM and its role in social science research. Building on this foundation, the seminar introduces the key steps of a typical PLS-SEM analysis before moving to a hands-on demonstration using SmartPLS 4. Drawing on a simple empirical example, the session illustrates how models can be specified, estimated, and interpreted in an intuitive and accessible manner, thereby lowering the barriers to getting started with the method.
The session concludes with a critical reflection on the appropriate use of PLS-SEM, highlighting its strengths, limitations, and suitable research contexts. It also provides an overview of available support materials.
Overall, the seminar aims to offer an accessible entry point into PLS-SEM and SmartPLS, equipping participants with practical guidance and the confidence to apply the method in their own research
Nicole Franziska Richter is a Full Professor of International Management at the University of Southern Denmark. Her research focuses on international management with particular emphasis on cross-cultural and work-related topics. She is one of the leading experts on PLS-SEM and an ambassador for necessary condition analysis (NCA). Nicole co-authored the German version of the textbook on PLS-SEM and regularly publishes articles applying PLS-SEM and NCA. Her publications have appeared in journals, such as Journal of International Business Studies, Journal of World Business, Journal of International Management, International Business Review, and International Journal of Human Resource Management. She is listed in the Ioannidis Top 2% most-cited researchers (2024) in the field of Economics and Business. Nicole is the editor in chief at the European Journal of International Management and an editorial board member at the Journal of International Business Studies and the Journal of International Management.
More information about Dr. Richter: https://portal.findresearcher.sdu.dk/en/persons/nicole
