Anatomy of knowledge bases used in design science research

  • Authors:

  • Oliver Gaß;Norbert Koppenhagen;Harald Biegel;Alexander Maedche;Benjamin Müller

  • Affiliations:

  • Chair of Information Systems IV, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany;Chair of Information Systems IV, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany;University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany;Chair of Information Systems IV, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany,Institute for Enterprise Systems, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany;Chair of Information Systems IV, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany

  • Venue:
  • DESRIST'12 Proceedings of the 7th international conference on Design Science Research in Information Systems: advances in theory and practice
  • Year:
  • 2012

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Abstract

Several papers have addressed the theory foundation of DSR. While researchers usually emphasize that the existence of such a knowledge base (KB) is essential for high quality design science research (DSR), opinions depart what kind of knowledge comprises such a knowledge base and which qualitative requirements apply regarding the knowledge leveraged. Some researchers demand that DSR is based on descriptive formal theories, while other scholars extend the width of the knowledge base also to unverified empirical evidence, conceptual knowledge and prescriptive knowledge. In order to provide some guidance for practical DSR, we apply literature review methodology on recent DSR articles to determine the common practice regarding the use and development of knowledge bases in previous projects. Based on this investigation, we discuss current issues, derive implications for future research and suggest measures to strengthen the role of the knowledge base in DSR.