Investigating the use of "Grounded Theory" in information systems research

  • Authors:

  • Rangarirai Matavire;Irwin Brown

  • Affiliations:

  • University of Cape Town, Rondebosch;University of Cape Town, Rondebosch

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the 2008 annual research conference of the South African Institute of Computer Scientists and Information Technologists on IT research in developing countries: riding the wave of technology
  • Year:
  • 2008

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Abstract

"Grounded Theory" has been employed quite widely in studies of information systems (IS) phenomena. A survey of IS literature reveals conflict in the understanding and use of "grounded theory". The term "grounded theory" is often used as a catch phrase to denote usage of a grounded theory approach to conducting research. A variety of grounded theory approaches have been employed in IS research. The purpose of this investigation was to establish the alternative approaches employed, and the extent to which each was used. To achieve this purpose, a comprehensive review of IS studies that employed "grounded theory" was carried out. Articles from the commonly ranked top 50 IS-centric journals were used as the frame of reference. These journals most closely represent the status quo in IS research. Articles for the period 1985 to 2007 were examined. The analysis revealed four main grounded theory approaches in IS research. These can be classified as the "Glaserian" grounded theory approach, the "Straussian" grounded theory approach, the use of "grounded theory" as part of a mixed methodology, and the simple application of grounded theory techniques, typically for data analysis purposes. The latter has been the most common application of "grounded theory" in IS research. The "Glaserian" approach was the least often employed, with many studies opting for the "Straussian" approach. These and other findings are discussed and implications drawn.