Theory Emergence in IS Research: The Grounded Theory Method Applied
Proceedings of the 10. JAIS Theory Development Workshop, Shanghai, China, (2011)Abstract
Where IS research aims at theory building and testing, the vast bulk of theory is borrowed from reference disciplines. While this provides some momentum for research output, it also tends to shift the focus of research away from direct observation of central, core IS issues. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to a larger goal of propelling forward indigenous IS theory. To do so we begin with grounded theory (GT) studies published in the Basket of Eight journals. For each identified paper, we analyze the topics, constructs, results, and implicit or stated theory considering the degree to which these papers individually and collectively contribute to an indigenous body of IS theory. Based on our analysis, we consider GT studies suggestive of positive directions for indigenous IS theory development. We encourage continued research and publication of inductive studies as a promising means toward this end.