Conservative solutions for progress: on solution types when combining QCA with in-depth Process-Tracing

Abstract What is the most appropriate QCA solution type when engaging in a multimethod design that includes and in-depth process-tracing (PT)? While either intermediate or parsimonious are generally favored QCA-only studies, we identify important challenges can emerge selecting those solutions QCA-PT study. We particularly highlight risk of mechanistic heterogeneity, omitted conditions, draw attention on issue generalization. discuss each these intertwined depth, explain why conservative useful to consider addressing them. substantiate our arguments by drawing recently completed evaluation study was commissioned Flemish ESF Agency Belgium. In study, combined theory-guided uncover under what combinations conditions (QCA) training programme would lead successful transfer how (PT) this happened cases. The article highlights need carefully selection types any comprising QCA.