Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is a multivariate statistical technique used to analyze structural relationships between measured variables and latent constructs (Hair et al., 2019). Among SEM approaches, Partial Least Squares (PLS) is preferred for exploratory research, complex models, and non-normal data (Ringle et al., 2015). SmartPLS has emerged as the most user-friendly graphical interface for PLS-SEM.
If you answered "No" to any of the first three, consider an alternative tool (e.g., with SEM module, or R Studio with plspm package). smartpls student version
Contrary to popular belief, the student version is not a "demo" but a fully functional educational tool. It supports all core PLS-SEM algorithms: If you answered "No" to any of the
| Feature | Student Version | Professional Version | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Free | €1,500+ annually | | Maximum Sample Size | 100 cases | Unlimited | | Maximum Variables | 40 indicators | Unlimited | | Maximum Bootstraps | 10,000 subsamples | 50,000+ | | Advanced Algorithms (PLS-SEM, IPMA, FIMIX) | Yes | Yes | | Predictive Modeling (PLSpredict) | Yes | Yes | | Multi-Group Analysis (MGA) | Yes | Yes | | Save/Export Projects | Yes (limited to student format) | Yes (full compatibility) | consider an alternative tool (e.g.
: Use the Connect tool to draw arrows from independent variables to dependent variables, forming your structural (inner) model.