Design science research genres: introduction to the special issue on exemplars and criteria for applicable design science research

Abstract

We propose the definition of genres in IS design science research (DSR). In recent years DSR has become a well-accepted research paradigm within IS; however, now the diversity of purpose, methodology, and mental models has increased to a point where reviewers and editors are unsure about which standards to apply to particular research submissions. For some researchers an artefact of value is a system or system component, while for others artefacts ought to be theories or theory components. Such differences are hard to reconcile and researchers often face criticism from diverse corners of the paradigm, where beliefs and standards are very different. We observed this diversity of views among authors, editors, and reviewers while editing this special issue. The problem continues to the current day. A solution may lie in defining genres of IS DSR, each with its model for DSR processes and outcomes. We define five prototype genres, based on selected articles, along with their typical characteristics, standards, and values. Several articles in this special issue typify various potential genres. The recognition of mutually respectful DSR genres may improve researchers' ability to publish in the highest tier IS journals, as colleagues, reviewers, and editors recognize and respect genre differences.

Digitalizing Crisis Management Training

“…The prototypes are presented in the next section. Although used in the IS field for more than 30 years, there are diverse views and application of the DSR paradigm [17]. Numerous articles present theoretical and conceptual guidelines for DSR (e.g.…”

“…[9], [16]). However, the body of somewhat diverse guidelines, frameworks and objectives, makes it difficult to present DSR studies without conflicting with some of the rules [17]. The DSR process model from Peffers et al [16] represents the overall approach for our work, although the detailed DSR processes have varied between the different artefacts.…”

Wirtschaftsinformatik-Forschung für die Praxis

“…Design Science Research kennt heute zahlreiche Varianten. Peffers et al (2018) haben dies zum Anlass genommen, die diversen DSR-Schulen in ihrem EJIS-Editorial zu einem DSR-Schwerpunktheft in die wesentlichen fünf Genres zu klassifizieren, worunter die gestaltungsorientierte Wirtschaftsinformatik (Winter 2008;) als eine Ausprägung betrachtet wird.…”

Whither design science research?

“…One such assumption is the distinction between behavioural IS research and DSR -a distinction seemingly artificial, somewhat misleading and rather confusing in most practical DSR contexts. As evident from the guest editors' introduction (Peffers et al, 2018), a significant open question regards the use of theory in design. Can DSR be considered legitimately atheoretical, emphasising other types of contribution?…”

“…In this issue, the guest editors and authors seek to go beyond methodological guidelines for DSR and instead present exemplars of what DSR can be. In the special issue introduction (Peffers et al, 2018), the guest editors also contribute a useful classification of DSR genres and discuss how we, as a community can be better at evaluating and appreciating different types of DSR research. The approach taken by the guest editors can be extended to cater for the full diversity of design-oriented approaches to IS research.…”