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Opening the ‘black box’: what does observational research reveal about processes and practices of governing?

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Listed:
  • Cate Watson

    (University of Stirling)

  • Gary Husband

    (University of Stirling)

  • Aileen Ireland

    (University of Stirling)

Abstract

Despite several decades of research on governance, very little is known about processes and practices of governing and, crucially, the links between governing and organisational performance. This has led to calls to penetrate the ‘black box’ of the boardroom by conducting research which draws on data gathered through direct observation. Such calls, however, have so far produced a rather sparse and inchoate literature which would benefit from review in order to give shape to the field and provide direction for future research. Here, we critically examine the findings of this research, focusing on three emergent themes: (1) the extent to which empirical research supports the established theories in the field, particularly agency and stewardship theories; (2) what research says about ‘good’ and ‘effective’ governance and the relationship between them; and (3) the methodological and conceptual orientations which frame this research, and the claims made for ‘processual’ approaches. We conclude with an agenda for taking the field forward in order to extend knowledge and to contribute to theory around governing.

Suggested Citation

  • Cate Watson & Gary Husband & Aileen Ireland, 2021. "Opening the ‘black box’: what does observational research reveal about processes and practices of governing?," Journal of Management & Governance, Springer;Accademia Italiana di Economia Aziendale (AIDEA), vol. 25(1), pages 189-221, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jmgtgv:v:25:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1007_s10997-020-09503-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s10997-020-09503-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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