Workarounds as generative mechanisms for bottom-up process innovation—Insights from a multiple case study

2023 | Information Systems Journal | Citations: 0

Authors: Bartelheimer, Christian; Wolf, Verena; Beverungen, Daniel

Abstract: Workarounds are goal-driven deviations from the standard operating procedures pe ... Expand

Abstract: Workarounds are goal-driven deviations from the standard operating procedures performed to overcome obstacles constraining day-to-day work. Despite starting as temporary fixes, they can become established across an organisation and trigger the innovation of processes and IT artefacts that can resolve misfits permanently. Although prior research has elicited antecedents and types of workarounds, it is not known how workarounds diffuse in an organisation and, thereby, innovating co-workers' activities, IT artefacts, and organisational structures. The results of our multiple two-year case study provide unique empirical insights into the diffusion of workarounds and how they can act as generative mechanisms for bottom-up process innovation. Collapse

Topics: business process management innovation management business process innovation organization structure business process redesign

Methods: design artifact case study business process modeling qualitative interview qualitative coding

Theories: socio technical theory structuration theory

Exploring Privacy Attitudes and Accurate Information Disclosure in Healthcare Contexts

2023 | International Conference on Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Clark, Autumn; Keith, Mark; Masters, Tamara

Abstract: Patients lie to their doctors for a variety of reasons such as judgement, embar ... Expand

Abstract: Patients lie to their doctors for a variety of reasons such as judgement, embarrassment, and financial concerns. These reasons are different from consumer contexts where information disclosure risks include the loss of data to unknown third parties. Yet, the same theories are commonly used to frame both settings. This overextension of theory leads to important differences in the results of these studies. We propose that additional theorizing is needed to reconceptualize privacy calculus to more accurately explain healthcare patient disclosure. Using a hybrid methodology based on both a grounded theory approach and construal level theory, this study explores the perceived risks and benefits of health data and consumer data disclosure. The results reveal significant differences in psychological distance and construal levels between the two contexts which can improve future theorizing. This deeper understanding could help improve the accuracy of patient disclosure and reduce harm in clinical systems. Collapse

Topics: healthcare data mobile application data breach privacy mobile business

Methods: survey grounded theory qualitative coding theory development computational algorithm

Theories: privacy calculus theory construal level theory

Operationalization of Configuration Analysis in Interorganizational Information Systems Research: A Research Journey

2023 | HICSS | Citations: 0

Authors: Frick, Norbert

Abstract: Configuration analysis is still an under-developed tool for researchers to inves ... Expand

Abstract: Configuration analysis is still an under-developed tool for researchers to investigate interorganizational information systems (IOIS) and the forms of interorganizational integration that are supported by IOIS. In our attempt to explain observed phenomena in a target industry we applied configuration analysis proposed by Lyytinen and Damsgaard in their position paper from 2011 on an industry level. We operationalized the conceptual idea of configuration analysis in a research design defining research paradigm, type of reasoning, research goals, unit of analysis and research methods to make it feasible for IOIS research. Our findings indicate that our operationalization of configuration analysis is suitable for research fields in IOIS that have no or hardly any empirical groundwork to observe phenomena and hypothesize about the mechanics leading to the existence of the phenomena. Collapse

Topics: database system interorganizational system electronic data interchange

Methods: literature study qualitative interview personal interview literature sample triangulation

Explaining sociotechnical change: an unstable equilibrium perspective

2023 | European Journal of Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Fischer, Louise Harder; Baskerville, Richard

Abstract: Within the domain of Information Systems, assumptions around sociotechnical chan ... Expand

Abstract: Within the domain of Information Systems, assumptions around sociotechnical change cohesively build on establishing a stable and balanced relationship between the social and technical structures. When these structures become too rigid, revolutionary moments that punctuate the status quo are required for the structures to accommodate to a new situation. Approaching sociotechnical change with “punctuation of equilibrium” is becoming increasingly ineffective. In line with rising instability and rapid digital development, we argue that new sociotechnical change approaches are needed. In this paper we investigate how individual knowledge workers respond to the increasingly complex challenges they face when orchestrating social and technical structures to support efficient and creative knowledge work. We suggest a new perspective that covers an unstable equilibrium emerging from the interplay between individuals and their usage of “the collection of rigid and flexible workplace technologies”. Our study is based on data from interviews made with 40 knowledge professionals over a period of three years, inquiring into individual experiences with sociotechnical change. Our study reveals contradictory patterns of both technological-individualisation and -socialisation. A universal generative mechanism emerges when these patterns complement each other and generates continuous change that seems to diminish inertia from rigid structures while also intensifying agile responses. Collapse

Topics: knowledge work cloud computing IT supported collaboration remote work LinkedIn

Methods: qualitative interview group interview theory development personal interview theoretical contribution

Theories: punctuated equilibrium theory theory of change social sciences theory

Social Inclusion: The Use of Social Media and the Impact on First-Generation College Students

2023 | Journal of the Association for Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Gonzalez, Ester; Deng, Xuefei (Nancy)

Abstract: Social inclusion has become a pressing issue for organizations wishing to close ... Expand

Abstract: Social inclusion has become a pressing issue for organizations wishing to close the inequality and disparity gaps associated with underrepresented or disadvantaged groups. The challenge is becoming particularly critical in higher education institutions suffering from low retention rates and low graduation rates among first-generation college students (FGCS). In response to the challenges imposed by the notion of social inclusion, some universities and colleges are exploring the use of social networking technologies such as social media (SM) in ways that can impact social inclusion. In order to improve the understanding of how social networking technology affects the social inclusion of FGCS, we conducted a case study in a public, Hispanic-serving institution in the United States. We used technology affordance theory to reveal various affordances actualized by FGCS and various outcomes resulting from those affordances. To explain how the actualization of different strands of affordance produces certain outcomes, our analysis of 102 FGCS' narratives followed an established five-step framework for identifying generative mechanisms, revealing three SM user types-Community Builders, Scholars, and Information Seekers-and four actualized affordances, namely interconnection, inspiration, insightfulness, and intense comfort, which are conceptualized into three generative mechanisms: identity booster, academic growth, and self-care. Our results provide insights into SM usage for social inclusion outcomes. By revealing how technology use can promote social engagement and mitigate exclusion experienced by FGCS, this study contributes to the broad social inclusion research on technology and disadvantaged communities. Collapse

Topics: affordance social media user experience information system use usability

Methods: survey case study literature study qualitative coding personal interview

Theories: theory of affordance cognitive dissonance theory

Investigating the Impact of Digital Transformation on Organizational Identity in an SME: Insights from an In-Depth Case Study

2023 | Americas Conference on Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Graf, Angela; Waltermann, Hubertus; Müller, Lea; Hess, Thomas

Abstract: The relationship between digital transformation and organizational identity is ... Expand

Abstract: The relationship between digital transformation and organizational identity is an immanent topic in IS, which is especially relevant for small-and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) due to their reliance on implementing digital technologies to stay competitive. However, little is known about this relationship in this specific context. Based on theories and concepts about digital transformation, organizational identity, and SMEs, we conducted an in-depth case study with a German Mittelstand company in the engineering sector. Building on a conceptual archetype framework, we reveal that different manifestations of digital transformation have different impact on organizational identity. Thereby, we contribute to IS research by highlighting the mutual dependency of these concepts and by underlining the necessity for being aligned to the specifics of SMEs. Moreover, we derive practical implications for managers that help to anticipate the effects of digital transformation within their strategic decision processes. Collapse

Topics: digital transformation anonymity video conference database system

Methods: qualitative interview case study qualitative content analysis personal interview

Theories: theory of practice

Aligning the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) counterfactual approach with the practice of retroduction: Some preliminary insights

2023 | Information Systems Journal | Citations: 2

Authors: Iannacci, Federico; Fearon, Colm; Kawalek, Peter; Simeonova, Boyka

Abstract: This study offers fresh ontological insights by examining generative causality t ... Expand

Abstract: This study offers fresh ontological insights by examining generative causality through the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) counterfactual lens, in conjunction with Critical Realism and the practice of retroduction. Specifically, it claims that Information Systems (IS) researchers could retroduce generative mechanisms by leveraging the QCA counterfactual approach to causation because retroduction is about conjecturing hypothetical mechanisms that would generate the outcome of interest in a counterfactual fashion. Drawing on an example of typological theorising, this study calls for a renewed effort in the use of retroduction in the study of IS phenomena. In addition, this study sheds new light on the overarching approach for conducting Critical Realist (case study) research. A number of theoretical, methodological, and practical implications are discussed. Collapse

Topics: anonymity systems operations knowledge representation

Methods: qualitative comparative analysis theory development mixed method theoretical contribution case study

How Ephemerality Features Affect User Engagement with Social Media Platforms

2023 | Management Information Systems Quarterly | Citations: 0

Authors: Lehrer, Christiane; Constantiou, Ioanna; Matt, Christian; Hess, Thomas

Abstract: User engagement, a key factor in the success of social media platforms, has lon ... Expand

Abstract: User engagement, a key factor in the success of social media platforms, has long been based on permanent content. A recent paradigm shift in platform design has led large social media providers to implement ephemerality features that by default make shared content disappear after a certain amount of time. However, very little is known about how ephemerality features affect user engagement and behavior in social media. Drawing upon the technology affordance perspective, we conducted a qualitative multimethod study involving individual interviews and focus groups. Our findings show that the affordances arising from features with varying degrees of ephemerality (i.e., snaps and stories) differ from those of permanent content features in terms of self-presentation, browsing others' content, and communication. Adopting a multidimensional conceptualization of user engagement, we show the positive (e.g., more content sharing) and negative (e.g., cognitive burden from context loss) effects for snaps and stories that should be cautiously considered by social media platforms aiming to introduce such features. Finally, we reveal new user behaviors that relate to sharing snapshots of fleeting value as snaps or experiences of transient value as stories. Collapse

Topics: affordance social media user behavior Snapchat usability

Methods: qualitative interview focus group mixed method cross sectional research qualitative coding

Theories: theory of affordance

Affordances and Information Systems Research: Taking Stock and Moving Forward

2023 | ACM SIGMIS Database | Citations: 0

Authors: Mesgari, Mostafa; Mohajeri, Kaveh; Azad, Bijan

Abstract: The term affordance appears with increasing frequency in the Information Systems ... Expand

Abstract: The term affordance appears with increasing frequency in the Information Systems (IS) literature. Nevertheless, those who study information technologies/information systems (IT/IS) via the affordance lens often have different views about its origin, meaning, and appropriate application in IS research. In turn, not spelling out the related assumptions and boundaries inherent in these diverse views may have hindered a wider and more cumulative adoption of the affordance lens in IS research. This paper offers a potential solution by (1) synthesizing the ecological psychology literature to suggest five key modules of the affordance concept relevant to IS research and (2) taking stock of IS research that has employed the affordance concept and classifying it according to its focus on three key affordance elements: IT artifact, user, and context. Finally, this paper presents a set of challenges, opportunities, and recommendations regarding how IS researchers can advance affordance-based research in the field. Collapse

Topics: user experience affordance usability systems implementation information system use

Methods: design artifact literature study theory development synthesis mixed method

Theories: theory of affordance evolutionary theory

Blockchain for Charity: Trust-Related Affordances in the Charity Sector

2023 | European Conference On Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Ostern, Nadine; Furneaux, Craig; Rosemann, Michael

Abstract: The charity sector is trust-intensive as its performance depends on people's wi ... Expand

Abstract: The charity sector is trust-intensive as its performance depends on people's willingness to donate and their confidence that donations will be used appropriately. However, recurring scandals continue to erode public trust. Charities are, therefore, increasingly turning to new technologies such as blockchain to increase their accountability and the transparency of donation use and allocation. While studies either develop concepts for the design of blockchain-based donation systems or examine the effects on donors' behavior, this paper focuses on emerging opportunities for charities. Using a systemic review, three types of blockchain uses, their interplay in the charity sector, and seven affordances are presented that enable charities to build trust through, among others, increased accountability and automated governance. We thereby contribute to a deeper understanding of the impact of blockchain on the charity sector by highlighting the action potential of actors in the sector and its effect on trust on the donors' side. Collapse

Topics: blockchain affordance database system user experience internet technology

Methods: theory development literature study qualitative coding case study structured literature research

Theories: theory of affordance