Process tracing


Process tracing is a method used to explain change and causation, and to evaluate and develop theories in the social sciences. It has been used in psychology, political science, or usability studies.
In process tracing studies, multiple data points are collected in comparison to simple input-output methods, where only one measurement per task is available.

Process Tracing in Political Science

The method works by presenting the observable implications of a theory, as well as alternative explanations that are inconsistent with the theory. Once these observable implications are presented, they are then tested empirically to see which of the observable implications can be observed and which cannot. Process-tracing emphasizes the temporal sequence of events, and requires fine-grained case knowledge.
It is often used to complement comparative case study methods. By tracing the causal process from the independent variable of interest to the dependent variable, it may be possible to rule out potentially intervening variables in imperfectly matched cases. This can create a stronger basis for attributing causal significance to the remaining independent variables.
Two limits to process-tracing is the problem of infinite regress and problem of degrees of freedom. One advantage to process-tracing over quantitative methods is that process-tracing provides inferential leverage. In addition to aiding uncovering and testing causal mechanisms, process-tracing also contributes descriptive richness.