“…Despite the daunting perception of formal theories and frameworks, mid-range theories (Stank et al ., 2017; Pellathy et al ., 2018; Russo et al ., 2021; Wowak et al ., 2022; Stank et al ., 2022), abductive theory elaboration approach (Kovács and Spens, 2005; DuHadway et al ., 2022; Ahlqvist et al ., 2023; Norrman and Prataviera, 2023; Russo et al ., 2023; Bals et al ., 2023; Sawyerr and Harrison, 2023) offer viable entry points for scholars who may otherwise be hesitant to engage in theorizing. Design science shapes and refines solutions, emphasizing pragmatic validity and long-term outcomes.…”