Tensions: A Lens for Provoking Debate on Contemporary Information Systems Developments

Authors

• Alexander Richter, The University of Auckland Business SchoolFollow
• Michael Leyer, School of Business and Economics (and Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Business & Law, QUT), Marburg University, Marburg, GermanyFollow
• Stuart Black, Faculty of Business and Economics, The University of MelbourneFollow
• Michael Davern, Faculty of Business and Economics, The University of MelbourneFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

Alexander Richter https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3699-6466
Michael Leyer https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9429-7770
Stuart Black https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5391-256X
Michael Davern https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9572-812X

Document Type

Editorial

Abstract

This editorial proposes a tensions lens as one approach to developing theoretically grounded provocations in Information Systems research. We argue that tensions become provocative when they reveal relationships that established assumptions obscure. We suggest five analytical steps as flexible guidance for authors: questioning an established assumption, formulating the tension, explaining how it is produced, examining its consequences, and stating the provocative implication. When tensions are made visible and opened to alternative interpretations and responses, they can inform research, design, and action.

Recommended Citation

Richter, Alexander; Leyer, Michael; Black, Stuart; and Davern, Michael (2026) "Tensions: A Lens for Provoking Debate on Contemporary Information Systems Developments," The Australasian Journal of Information Systems: Vol. 30: No. 1, Article 1.
DOI: 10.3127/ajis.v30.6676
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/ajis/vol30/iss1/1

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.