Suchergebnisse

Assumptions about an object under study can influence research in many ways. These preconceptions color the researcher's perspective, and influence the research purpose, the research questions addressed, and the research methods used. This paper identifies and analyzes the following assumptions regarding information systems methodology (ISM) research: the positive impact of methodologies on the process and product of information system design; the irrationality of design practice; the existence of knowledge about good design practice; the ability to communicate design knowledge to practicing designers; and the ability to change the rationality of design practitioners. The impact of these assumptions on ISM research is examined for the purpose of highlighting limitations of past research and identifying more promising directions for the future.

PurposeThis paper aims to introduce this special issue of ITP on systems for human benefit (S4HB), to develop and promote the idea of S4HB, and advocate that more research be conducted on the design and diffusion of S4HB.Design/methodology/approachThis conceptual paper argues that S4HB are systemically under‐researched based on a historical perspective on IS research and proposes an agenda for research on the design and diffusion of S4HB.FindingsThe paper identifies extant areas of S4HB, such as health and education, but also advocates that new areas of S4HB be identified and new kinds of S4HB be designed. It further discusses how diffusion is a key issue to the realisation of human benefits and contrasts diffusion of S4HB with more commercial business systems as a motivator for further research. Finally it sets out a brief agenda for research in S4HB, including: development of a vision for research on S4HB that emphasises design for solving human problems; research on diffusion of S4HB; revision of the way impact is assessed by journals to include assessment of the significance of the problem and the achievement of human benefit; and promotion of a research culture, policies, and funding that emphasises S4HB.Originality/valueThis is the first paper to pull together a common perspective on the disparate areas of S4HB. The paper identifies what S4HB are, what their goals are, what areas are concerned, and sets out an agenda for what research is needed to realise them and their benefits in society.