Version: 1.3.0 (2026-06-15)

PLSsemEngine provides a transparent, modular, and reproducible implementation of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), specifically designed for composite-based Mode A estimation of reflective models.

🌟 Purpose and Philosophy

The software prioritizes:

• Algorithmic Transparency: Implementation via pure base R matrix operations to ensure long-term stability.
• Methodological Bridges: Native integration with lavaan for CB-SEM/CFA cross-validation.
• Explicit Analytical Control: No hidden heuristics or automatic re-specifications; interpretive support is optional and researcher-led.
• Modular Architecture: Clear separation between estimation, inference, and prediction components.

⚙️ Computational Workflow

The engine follows a standardized and inspectable PLS-SEM pipeline:

1. Data Standardization: Handles mean-centered and standardized scales.
2. Iterative Mode A Estimation: Factorial weighting scheme by default.
3. Measurement Evaluation: Loadings, CR, AVE, HTMT, and HTMT2.
4. Structural Estimation: Path coefficients via OLS on latent scores with