Hair, J. F. Jr., Hult, G. T. M., Ringle, C. M., Sarstedt, M. (2014). A Primer on Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Sage Publications. ISBN: 978-1-4522-1744-4. 307 pp.
Methodological guide demonstrates the utility of partial least squares structural equation modeling in social sciences, highlighting its flexibility for complex models.
Key Points
To introduce the theoretical fundamentals, methodological steps, and software applications of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) for empirical research.
Comparative methodological analysis contrasting variance-based PLS-SEM with covariance-based SEM (CB-SEM).
Systematic breakdown of model specification covering mediation, moderation, higher-order structures, and formative versus reflective constructs.
Step-by-step evaluation protocol for measurement and structural models using SmartPLS software and bootstrapping estimation.
Identifies key methodological advantages of PLS-SEM, including robust performance with small sample sizes, complex model structures, and single-item measures.