Design science: methods and applications

¶ … Peffers et al. (2008) describes an attempt to identify and define a design science research methodology for information systems. One of the main challenges in this regard is that information systems, or what the authors refer to as "IS," is an applied research discipline. In this regard, the authors explain that theory from other disciplines is often used to inform information systems and towards problem solution within information systems. Hence, the applied nature of such theory makes it difficult to truly identify a focused and/or unique theory for IS itself. The danger inherent in this is that there is no strong component in IS that produces applicable research. Hence, there is the potential of losing research influence in various streams where applicability is important.

The purpose of the investigation was therefore to identify a design system research methodology that is grounded in existing literature while also providing guidance for researchers in Design Science. A secondary challenge was, however, that there are other similar research paradigms, which would negate the importance of the identified research paradigm if it is not unique.

The authors conclude that their defined design science research methodology can be used to develop further types of methodology in this field. This suggests that any research methodology type within design science is flexible and can be applied to the specific field involved in the investigation. The final conclusion is that there is much room for further investigation and use of the identified methodology. The authors also suggest that there will be some room for improvement. One such area of potential further investigation is the research entry point, of which there are many in DS research. Hence, identifying the appropriate entry point could be the focus of future research.

Hevner et al. (2004) note that design science work in tandem with behavioral science to act as research paradigm for Information Systems. This paradigm is focused on extending the boundaries of capability in human and organizational terms through the use of new and innovative artifacts. Organizations, people, and technology function together to bring reality to this focus. The purpose of the article is to describe how design-science research functions within Information Systems. They suggest that the desgned artifact is built and applied to achieve knowledge and understanding of a problem domain.

After creating a framework for research and discussing guidelines for design science in information systems research, the authors apply the guidelines to real-life situations. The article concludes by reiterating the roles of people, organizations, and technology in information systems research, where artifacts are used to ensure the solution of technological problems. As such, the design-science paradigm is particularly concerns the use of technology in Information Systems research. The authors note that design science is "proactive" in terms of using existing technology to create a new artifact or technology towards the solution of a research problem.