ABSTRACT

This study presents an Information Systems (IS) research methodology for the conduct of critical research into sustainable development that encompasses the objectives of socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable economic growth. The specific context is the application of critical research in the problem definition phase of IS Design Science Research for sustainable development. The paper guides IS research through problem scenarios of unsustainable development where power can distort truth and corrupt the public discourse in the furtherance of their ambitions. The methodology provides a structured approach to engage in inquiry of topics which are by their nature, deceptive and opaque. The methodology enables research inquiry encompassing societal topics, macro-social issues related to sustainable development and the application of nomothetic inquiry to address systemic problems. The paper concludes with illustrative examples of outcomes from the application of the prescribed methodology. The study provides an IS response to systemic social and environmental challenges by identifying the routes to transformation which in turn inform the design of IS solutions. Consequently, the study lays a foundation for IS engagement in socially responsible design science research.

摘要

本研究提出了一种信息系统 (IS) 研究方法，用于对可持续发展进行批判性研究，其中包括社会包容性和环境可持续经济增长的目标。具体背景是批判性研究在 IS 设计科学研究的问题定义阶段的应用，以实现可持续发展。该论文通过不可持续发展的问题场景指导 IS 研究，在这些场景中，权力可以扭曲真相并腐蚀公共话语以促进他们的野心。该方法提供了一种结构化的方法来参与对本质上具有欺骗性和不透明性的主题的调查。该方法使研究调查能够涵盖社会主题，与可持续发展相关的宏观社会问题以及应用规律性探究解决系统性问题。本文最后给出了应用规定方法的结果的说明性示例。该研究通过确定转型途径来提供 IS 对系统性社会和环境挑战的响应，进而为 IS 解决方案的设计提供信息。因此，该研究为 IS 参与对社会负责的设计科学研究奠定了基础。