Abstract

Much of the work within the information systems discipline has an implied focus on the science aspect of the area of research known as design science. However, the design aspect is often regarded as an obvious and straightforward activity. To the contrary, design is a complex and creative human activity that arises in many different disciplines, including architecture and engineering. This research focuses on articulating the significance of “design” in design science research. It proposes a 3-layer framework that clarifies the relationship between design and research. This framework provides the basis for developing a set of nine guidelines that helps distinguish different levels of design and research and highlights the knowledge goals for each level. Doing so unpacks the dual notions of design and science in a way that illuminates the design aspect within design science research, leading to a deeper understanding of how to conduct and apply such research.

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Unpacking the Duality of Design Science

Much of the work within the information systems discipline has an implied focus on the science aspect of the area of research known as design science. However, the design aspect is often regarded as an obvious and straightforward activity. To the contrary, design is a complex and creative human activity that arises in many different disciplines, including architecture and engineering. This research focuses on articulating the significance of “design” in design science research. It proposes a 3-layer framework that clarifies the relationship between design and research. This framework provides the basis for developing a set of nine guidelines that helps distinguish different levels of design and research and highlights the knowledge goals for each level. Doing so unpacks the dual notions of design and science in a way that illuminates the design aspect within design science research, leading to a deeper understanding of how to conduct and apply such research.