The Design Process in Information System Research

Table of Contents

1 Introduction

1.1 Motivation and Research Questions

1.2 Structure

2 Theoretical Background of Design Science

2.1 Introducing the Design Concept

2.2 Design Science as an Area of Research

2.2.1 The Separation of Design Science and Natural Science

2.2.2 Theorizing in Design Science

2.3 Establishing a Philosophical Basis for Design Science

3 Developing the Design Science Discipline

3.1 Three Different Design Science Frameworks

3.1.1 Building an Information System Design Theory for Vigilant EIS

3.1.2 Design and Natural Science Research on Information Technology

3.1.3 Design Science in Information System Research

4 Identifying the Core Subject Matter of Design Science in IS research

4.1 The IT Artifact

4.2 The IT Work System

5 Conclusion and Outlook

Research Objectives & Key Themes

This paper explores the evolution and challenges of Design Science within the Information Systems (IS) research discipline, aiming to clarify the foundational role of Design Science and identify its core subject matter to help the field overcome its current identity crisis.

• Theoretical foundations and philosophical underpinnings of Design Science.
• Comparative analysis of major Design Science frameworks (Walls et al., March & Smith, Hevner et al.).
• The relationship and boundaries between Design Science and Natural Sciences.
• The debate surrounding the "IT Artifact" versus the "Work System" as the central subject of IS research.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1 Introduction: Provides the motivation for examining Design Science and outlines the core research questions regarding the discipline's identity and core subject matter.

2 Theoretical Background of Design Science: Discusses the historical and conceptual roots of design, comparing Design Science with Natural Science and examining the role of theory and philosophical paradigms.

3 Developing the Design Science Discipline: Analyzes the three most cited academic frameworks in IS literature, evaluating how each contributes to the development of design research cycles.

4 Identifying the Core Subject Matter of Design Science in IS research: Explores the ongoing debate regarding whether the IT artifact or the work system should serve as the primary focus of IS research.

5 Conclusion and Outlook: Synthesizes the findings, noting that while a definitive core subject remains elusive, Design Science remains a critical and growing component of IS research.

Keywords

Design Science, Information Systems, IT Artifact, Work System, IS Research, Research Paradigm, Natural Science, Behavioral Science, Design Theory, Identity Crisis, Socio-technologist, Framework, Methodology, Proof-of-concept, Knowledge Base.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this research paper?

The paper examines the development and challenges of the Design Science discipline within the field of Information Systems, specifically focusing on its identity, theoretical foundations, and core subject matter.

What are the central themes discussed in the work?

The central themes include the intersection of theory and practice, the relationship between Design Science and Natural Sciences, and the debate over whether the "IT artifact" or "Work System" should be the defining unit of analysis.

What is the main goal or research question?

The primary goals are to determine if Design Science requires a unique research paradigm, to identify its core subject matter, and to assess whether existing frameworks sufficiently support the discipline.

Which scientific methods are applied in the paper?

The paper employs a literature-based analytical approach, reviewing and contrasting foundational Design Science frameworks and philosophical paradigms to assess their rigor and relevance.

What topics are covered in the main section of the paper?

The main sections cover the theoretical roots of design, a detailed comparative analysis of three prominent Design Science frameworks, and a critical discussion of the IT artifact and work system as potential core subjects.

How can the paper be characterized using keywords?

Key terms include Design Science, Information Systems, IT Artifact, Work System, IS Research, Research Paradigm, and Design Theory.

Why is there an "identity crisis" in the IS discipline?

The crisis arises from the tension between maintaining scientific rigor (often borrowed from Natural Sciences) and ensuring practical relevance for organizations, leading to debates over the field's true purpose and object of study.

How does the author view the separation of Design Science and Natural Science?

The author argues that a rigid separation is counterproductive, suggesting instead that a unified approach is necessary to ensure that design efforts remain grounded in organizational reality.