Ehsan’s Three Tables Model: A comprehensive guide for identifying research gaps and conducting systematic literature reviews in business and economics studies

Abstract

The aim of this study is to introduce and assess Ehsan’s Three Tables Model as a novel framework for conducting systematic literature reviews in business and economics studies. The primary challenge in this field lies in the inconsistent identification of research gaps, which often impedes knowledge advancement. To address this, Ehsan’s Three Tables Model offers a structured and comprehensive approach designed to improve the precision and clarity of research gap identification. Methods employed include a systematic review of existing literature, deductive analysis, and the application of the Three Tables Model to categorize and analyze research gaps across various industries and regions. Results of the study demonstrate that this model offers a more rigorous methodology for organizing and analyzing literature, ensuring that identified gaps are both relevant and actionable. It moves beyond conventional approaches by employing a three-step process: compiling relevant studies, categorizing research gaps, and outlining how the current study fills these gaps. The author concluded that the proposed model contributes to the field of business and economics studies by presenting a fresh, structured perspective on literature reviews, providing researchers with an innovative tool to conduct more impactful and targeted studies.