In this issue

Question the conventional wisdom: You could find that what “everybody knows” no longer holds true. That might be the case with one of the truisms of e-commerce: that the online purchase experience should be as free of friction as possible. Marco Bertini, Diego Aparicio, and Aylin Aydinli ask whether that makes sense in all circumstances — and suggest that the widespread practice of easing customers’ paths through the point of sale might actually be one of the culprits behind the high rate of returns for online purchases. They explain how introducing the right type of friction can slow buyers down and give them more time to evaluate their purchasing decisions — and increase their loyalty.

The Working Limitations of Large Language Models

Overestimating the capabilities of Al models like ChatGPT can lead to unreliable applications.

9 mins

Use Open Source for Safer Generative AI Experiments

Commercial Al services can put proprietary data at risk but there are alternatives.

6 mins

The Looming Challenge of Chemical Disclosures

New sustainability rules make consumer brands accountable for the composition of their products, but most companies are in the dark.

6 mins

R&D Leaders Must Play a key Role in the Journey to Net Zero

CTOs and other executives who lead research and innovation are positioned to be critical change agents in cutting enterprises’ carbon footprints.

6 mins

There Actually Is an 'I' in Team

Research shows that when dealing with fundamental change, teams that retrain individuals before focusing on collaboration have better results.

6 mins

Set Ambitious but Realistic Environmental Goals

How far from business realities can companies stretch when setting critical goals to reduce carbon emissions?

10+ mins

The Hidden Opportunity in Paradoxes

When faced with impossible choices, organizations that embrace seemingly contradictory options expand the scope of what's possible.

10+ mins

Can Friction Improve Your Customers' Experiences?

Many companies are on a quest to make online shopping as hassle-free as possible but slowing down the purchase process can boost buyer satisfaction and loyalty.

10+ mins

Leadership Development Is Failing Us.Here's How to Fix It

Executive development programs are big business, but too many fail to yield meaningful results. Here’s how to be a savvy consumer.

10+ mins

Make Better Allies of Your Workforce

Leaders can avoid labor disputes and create value by improving communication with employees and including them in strategic decision-making

10+ mins

What Managers Everywhere Must Know About Caste

Hari Bapuji, Kamini Gupta, Snehanjali Chrispal, and Thomas Roulet

10+ mins

How to Productively Disagree on Tough Topics

Instead of avoiding divisive issues, learn how to have thoughtful conversations that build mutual understanding and respect.

10+ mins

How Ghost Scenarios Haunt Strategy Execution

Strategic planners are often blind about how the future will challenge their status quo. A scenario-planning mindset can help them see what they’re missing.

8 mins

The Real Issues Driving the Nursing Crisis

Our analysis of nurses' employer reviews reveals the true source of burnout and why nurses are leaving the field. Here's how health care leaders can improve nurse job satisfaction to fight a looming nursing shortage.

10+ mins

Read all stories from MIT Sloan Management Review

MIT Sloan Management Review Magazine Description:

MIT Sloan Management Review leads the discourse among academic researchers, business executives and other influential thought leaders about advances in management practice, particularly those shaped by technology, that are transforming how people lead and innovate. MIT SMR disseminates new management research and innovative ideas so that thoughtful executives can capitalize on the opportunities generated by rapid organizational, technological and societal change.