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Cited by 3,306Information Systems Theories and ImplementationBusiness Strategies and Management ResearchScientific Research and Philosophical Inquiry

The DOI matches its Crossref record; 105 of the 106 references it cites were found in a registry or an index.

The Nature of Theory in Information Systems1

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Gregor, Shirley·2006·MIS Quarterly
DOI 10.2307/25148742
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Abstract

The aim of this research essay is to examine the structural nature of theory in Information Systems. Despite the importance of theory, questions relating to its form and structure are neglected in comparison with questions relating to epistemology. The essay addresses issues of causality, explanation, prediction, and generalization that underlie an understanding of theory. A taxonomy is proposed that classifies information systems theories with respect to the manner in which four central goals are addressed: analysis, explanation, prediction, and prescription. Five interrelated types of theory are distinguished: (1) theory for analyzing, (2) theory for explaining, (3) theory for predicting, (4) theory for explaining and predicting, and (5) theory for design and action. Examples illustrate the nature of each theory type. The applicability of the taxonomy is demonstrated by classifying a sample of journal articles. The paper contributes by showing that multiple views of theory exist and by exposing the assumptions underlying different viewpoints. In addition, it is suggested that the type of theory under development can influence the choice of an epistemological approach. Support is given for the legitimacy and value of each theory type. The building of integrated bodies of theory that encompass all theory types is advocated.

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Metadata

Authors
Gregor, S.
Affiliations
Australian National University (AU)
Corresponding author
Gregor, Shirley
ORCID
Gregor, Shirley
Venue
MIS Quarterly
Publisher
MIS Quarterly
Published
2006-09-01
Volume
30
Issue
3
Pages
611-642
ISSN
  • 0276-7783 (ISSN-L)
  • 2162-9730
DOI
10.2307/25148742
OpenAlex
W2151020819
Cited by
3,306
References
106
Citations by year
2026: 158 · 2025: 142 · 2024: 137 · 2023: 171 · 2022: 208 · 2021: 208 · 2020: 184 · 2019: 189 · 2018: 178 · 2017: 163 · 2016: 153 · 2015: 229 · 2014: 207 · 2013: 209 · 2012: 195
FWCI
288.19
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Locations
  • MIS Quarterly (publishedVersion)
  • ANU Open Research (Australian National University) (submittedVersion)
  • Journal of the Association for Information Systems (submittedVersion)
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Business, Management and Accounting › Management Information Systems › Information Systems Theories and Implementation
  • Social Sciences › Business, Management and Accounting › Strategy and Management › Business Strategies and Management Research
  • Social Sciences › Business, Management and Accounting › Management of Technology and Innovation › Scientific Research and Philosophical Inquiry
Keywords
information systems theory, nature of theory, causality, explanation, prediction, generalization, epistemology

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