SmartPLS
Software & tools
Software for PLS-SEM, used to estimate measurement and structural models, run bootstrapping and assess predictive relevance.
SmartPLS is the leading software for partial least squares structural equation modelling. Researchers draw the measurement and structural model directly on a canvas, connect constructs to their indicators, and estimate the whole system without writing code.
It suits studies with smaller samples, non-normal data, formative constructs or complex models — conditions where covariance-based SEM in AMOS struggles. Because PLS-SEM produces no parametric significance tests, path significance comes from the bootstrapping routine, which is a separate run from the initial PLS algorithm.
Reporting follows a two-stage sequence. First the measurement model: indicator loadings, composite reliability, AVE and HTMT for discriminant validity. Then the structural model: path coefficients with bootstrapped t-values and confidence intervals, R squared, f squared effect sizes and Q squared from blindfolding. Newer versions add PLSpredict and the model fit criteria reviewers increasingly request.
Where it's used
- Variance-based SEM for prediction and complex models
- Mediation, moderation and multi-group analysis
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