Process Model for an Empiracally Grounded Reference Model Construction

Abstract

This chapter stresses the importance of integrating empirical evidence in the construction process of reference models. With reference to the authors’ underly-ing epistemological beliefs, requirements for an empirically grounded process model are derived. Based on a literature review of existing process models and experience gained from three research projects, an advanced process model is proposed in order to provide concrete instructions that show how these require-ments can be met. Real-life examples from completed and ongoing research pro-jects are continuously integrated so as to contribute to the practicability of the proposed model for the reader.