Abstract
The rise of ubiquitous mobile information systems, artificial intelligence–driven imagery processing, and the availability of precise geolocation data have opened new opportunities to develop spatially explicit theories in information systems (IS) research. However, IS research has lagged behind other disciplines in leveraging these data. This article proposes a three-wave framework to describe the evolution of geographic IS research. Wave One recognizes that distance matters but does not employ spatial theories or methods. Wave Two incorporates distance as a measurable variable, yet still lacks robust geographic analysis. In the emerging Wave Three, researchers begin to ask spatially explicit questions and apply geographic methods, fully leveraging the richness of geocoded and time-stamped data. We describe key challenges and opportunities of using point-based spatial data, introduce analytical techniques designed for geographically explicit inquiry, and offer a conceptual framework to guide the integration of spatial theory and methods in IS research. We argue that embracing this third wave can open new theoretical and empirical frontiers for the IS field.
DOI
10.17705/1CAIS.05736
Recommended Citation
Tripp, J., Wimble, M., & Shortridge, A. M. (2025). Advancing the Third Wave of Geospatial Analytics in IS Research through Spatially Explicit Theory and Methods. Communications of the Association for Information Systems, 57, 812-846. https://doi.org/10.17705/1CAIS.05736
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