Design Theory in Information Systems

Authors

  • Shirley Gregor

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3127/ajis.v10i1.439

Keywords:

foundations of information systems, FOIS, design theory, method

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore an important category of information systems knowledge that is termed “design theory”. This knowledge is distinguished as the fifth of five types of theory: (i) theory for analysing and describing, (ii) theory for understanding, (iii) theory for predicting, (iv) theory for explaining and predicting, and (v) theory for design and action. Examples of design theory in information systems are provided, with associated research methods. The limited understanding and recognition of this type of theory in information systems indicates that further debate concerning its nature and role in our discipline is needed.

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How to Cite

Gregor, S. (2002). Design Theory in Information Systems. Australasian Journal of Information Systems, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.3127/ajis.v10i1.439

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 1 (2002): Theme: SME research and best ISF conference papers

Section

Selected Papers from the Information Systems Foundations Conference (ISF)

License

AJIS publishes open-access articles distributed under the terms of a Creative Commons Non-Commercial and Attribution License which permits non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and AJIS are credited. All other rights including granting permissions beyond those in the above license remain the property of the author(s).