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Desk Research
Process Tracing
A case-based, theory-driven method for causal inference. It examines a single case in depth, applying specific evidence tests to assess whether a specific change contributed to observed outcomes and to rule out alternative explanations.
When This Method Fits
Typical duration
Weeks – Months
Typical cost
Medium
Fidelity level
N/A
Stage
Validation, Implementation
Hypothesis type
Mechanism
Goal type
Deepen product-market fit, Scale the model, Maximize societal impact, Drive corporate innovation / R&D, Improve operational efficiency
Randomization
Not Possible
Study design
Interrupted time series
Minimum units needed
1
Causal rigor
Min 2 · Max 3 / 5
1Best Fit When
Best when you need to rigorously establish whether a specific change actually caused an observed outcome in one case, and a controlled comparison isn't possible.