Dieter Hasselmann
Abstract
Schmidt and Hunter's (1998) review study of meta-analytic findings represents a widely acclaimed milestone in the assessment of validity and usefulness of commonly used aptitude diagnostic instruments. Discussed are what implications the findings had (or have) and should have for the field of management diagnostics. In particular, two aspects are examined in more detail. First, the question of how far intelligence tests, which proved to be particularly valid in the study, should also be regarded as an indispensable core method for management diagnostics. On the other hand, it is discussed whether, in spite of the only moderate validity characteristics, a multi-method procedures procedure design should be aimed at for the purpose of management diagnostics. As a result of the considerations, the methodological development impulse of the results of the meta-analysis of Schmidt and Hunter for the practice of management diagnostics is relativized. For the meaningfulness of aptitude diagnostic procedures, also in management diagnostics, the design of the (complete) aptitude diagnostic process as well as the numerous associated design and implementation questions are emphasized as crucial.
Keywords: Management diagnostics, meta-analysis, intelligence tests, assessment center, multi-method procedures