Abstract
The discipline of Information systems has established itself as an independent discipline now. However there are criticisms of it being fragmented and there being a lack of pluralistic approaches of inquiry. The Informing Science framework conceptualizes Information Systems as a part of the growing discipline of Informing Science and proposes to draw upon the other disciplines that share the common goal of informing the client. This paper assesses the strengths and weaknesses of this framework. While cautioning against indiscriminate borrowing of concepts from other disciplines, the paper suggests that the principles of General Systems Theory may be quite useful in conceptualizing and enriching Information Systems. It suggests that pluralism should not be considered a sign of disorder. Homogeneity may be desired but it may also be a sign of a closed system whereas heterogeneity is a characteristic of any open, growing system.
Recommended Citation
Jani, Arpan Y., "The Informing Science Framework: An Assessment and Implications for the Discipline of Information Systems" (2000). AMCIS 2000 Proceedings. 430.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2000/430