Structured-case: a methodological framework for building theory in information systems research
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Structured-case: a methodological framework for building theory in information systems research JM Carroll1 and PA Swatman2 1
Department of Information Systems, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (jcarroll얀staff.dis.unimelb.edu.au); School of Management Information Systems, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
2
This paper presents a methodological framework, structured-case, that assists IS researchers to undertake and assess theory building research within the interpretive paradigm, and explains its value in achieving convincing explanations that are strongly linked to both the research themes and data collected in the field. European Journal of Information Systems (2000) 9, 235–242.
Introduction The previous decade has seen an increase in the range of research approaches that are considered acceptable for information systems (IS) research. There is now widespread acknowledgement of qualitative research as a valuable and valid research approach (Markus, 1997; Avison et al, 1999). However, qualitative research covers a plurality of research paradigms (positivist, interpretive and critical), within which there are many research methods (such as case studies, field studies, ethnography and action research), research processes and techniques. Silverman (1998) argues that ‘there is no agreed doctrine underlying all qualitative social research’ (p 7); the common element of qualitative research is the collection of data in the form of words and images, which is analysed by methods that do not include statistics or quantification (Strauss & Corbin, 1990). Although methodological pluralism is valuable in providing alternative perspectives on the design, development and use of information systems (Orlikowsky & Baroudi, 1991), this breadth of research approaches poses theoretical and practical challenges for IS researchers. The theoretical issue concerns assuring the quality of qualitative IS research. Having come to terms with the requirements for quality research within the paradigm and method chosen, the practical issue involves how the research is actually performed. These challenges are of particular concern for researchers who are: 쐌 inexperienced in qualitative IS research (either entering the field of qualitative research, or performing it infrequently); 쐌 moving between the various research methods. Researchers should carefully match the research approach to the research topic, situation and available resources, rather than sticking to just one approach.
쐌 intent on demonstrating the quality, validity and plausibility of their particular research approach to an audience unfamiliar to the chosen approach. One problem with qualitative research in general is demonstrating the linkage between the data collected and conclusions drawn: as Eisenhardt (1989) observes, ‘a huge chasm often separates data from conclusions’ (p 539). Strong, believable conclusions need to be linked clearly to the da
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