Research Topics:

Data Analysis | Data Quality | Quantitative Research

Content Type:

Glossary

External Validity Definition

The extent to which causal relationships measured in an experiment can be generalized to outside persons, settings and times.

External validity is the extent to which causal relationships, findings and conclusions that are drawn from a study or experiment can be generalized and applied to real-world situations, populations and contexts outside the scope of the study. It signifies that study results are relevant beyond the specific conditions of the research, thus adding to their credibility. Conversely, insights that cannot be generalized to poor external validity can undermine the value of research.

Who relies on external validity?

Market professionals, analysts and decision makers in companies seek external validity to make informed decisions. Researchers depend on it so they can be certain that their study findings have broader applications with external audiences.

Why should I care about external validity?

External validity proves that research findings have relevance and applicability in the real world. Ignoring external validity might lead to relying on strategies that work only in specific conditions, which can lead to poor decisions and wasted resources.