A systemic framework for the field of information systems

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to present a systemic framework of what the field of Information Systems (IS) is about; its connecting areas and its central theme. It was born out of a search for structure in providing a cohesive picture of the subject and field of IS for students and business managers. The average manager and executive has difficulty in obtaining an integrated and holistic view of information systems, and it is said that this leads to a lack of alignment between IS and the strategic aims of the enterprise. Students, particularly MBA students, have a similar problem. Using a large number of disparate data sources, including a delphic survey of leading academics, the paper adopted a grounded theory approach in developing an integrating framework of five main areas for the field: (1) IS development, acquisition & support (2) people & organization, (3) information & communications technology, (4) operations & network management, and (5) information for knowledge work, customer satisfaction & business performance. The latter area is proposed as the central, distinguishing theme for the field. The paper also discusses the implications of the framework and how it might be used in teaching, the organizational setting, and IS research.