Theory and Theorizing in Information Systems

Abstract

Markus and Robey, in their seminal paper, assert that good theory guides research and when appropriately used it increases the likelihood that Information technology will be implemented with desirable results in any organization. This laments the importance of using theory in information systems research because of explanations it provides and paying attention to other areas that might otherwise be ignored. Researchers in the IS field such as Gregor, Grover, Corley and Gioia, Weber, and Whetten have discussed and classified theory and what constitutes a theoretical contribution. Despite the importance that many researchers ascribe to theory and theorising, the development of new theory and the refinement of existing theories there's a belief the information systems discipline has neglected theory and theorising. This, however, suggests that there's enough guidance on theory and theorising within the IS field and it is documented for different contexts and boundaries.