Replication of design theories: Reflections on function, outcome, and impact

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

The replication of existing research studies and theories is considered a foundational pillar of knowledge accumulation and an important instrument of discourse across research disciplines. Although replication has a long tradition in natural and behavioural science research, the design science research (DSR) community is yet to adopt it, especially the replication of design theories. However, it is unclear how the DSR community could benefit from the replication of design theories. Similarly, the goal of design theories is to obtain utility instead of truth raises questions regarding the transferability of replication into the DSR domain. Against this background, this study reflects on the function, outcome, and impact of replications, to understand whether the replication of design theories is possible and necessary. The study proposes that replication can be an important catalyst for reuse and knowledge accumulation in DSR because it provides evidence on the boundaries of design theory. Specifically, replication can increase or decrease the level of confidence and projectability associated with design theory.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1158-1176
Number of pages19
JournalInformation Systems Journal
Volume32
Issue number6
Publication statusPublished - 2 Oct 2022
Peer-reviewedYes

Keywords

Keywords

  • design science research, design theory, knowledge accumulation, replication research, theory abstraction