"Research Methods for Information Technology"
Bobby Allen's paper "Research Methods for Information Technology" specifically deals with the importance of research for individuals in the field of informational technology. Allen creates a typology of different methods and explains their relevance to his chosen field of research. Quantitative methods deal with empirical research goals and tend to conform to the scientific method of proving or disproving a hypothesis. They are often used in IT to evaluate systems' efficacy. Qualitative research is subjective and interprets individual behaviors, frequently using a case study method. Although it might not be immediately obvious that the case study approach would be useful for IT professionals, Allen makes a convincing case that it is, noting the need to understand how intended users may interact with an interface
Other methods include critical theory, which is more philosophic in nature, and examines the underpinnings of the assumptions for various behaviors (social,...
Literature reviews review a wide variety of studies by previous researchers to draw independent conclusions. While the theoretical nature of critical theory tends to make this method less useful for IT professionals, literature reviews can be very helpful in gathering information about trends within the field. Mixed methods that use a variety of approaches are often required, however, for complex IT projects.
Allen's examination of different methods is cleanly presented, and demonstrates how different types of research can be used in a specific field. His analysis was particularly illuminating, because it might be assumed that IT only uses one type of method (quantitative analysis). However, IT deploys a variety of methods, as a system must be user friendly (hence the need for qualitative data), and must build upon the previous research of the field (hence the need for literature reviews). IT is a multifaceted field so it must use research methods that are equally multifaceted and multidisciplinary.
