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Communications of the Association for Information Systems

Abstract

This study presents a partial conceptual replication (study 2) of The Development of the Perceived Distinctiveness Antecedent of Information Systems Professional Identity (Riemenschneider & Armstrong, 2021) using technical information systems (IS) professionals as the sample. The continued prominence of remote and hybrid work, coupled with increased digital proficiency among business professionals, and intense competition to attract and retain technical talent, suggests that a reassessment of IS professional distinctiveness is warranted. Survey data from 203 IS professionals working in technical positions in the United States (U.S.) were used to evaluate the boundary conditions of the original study by juxtaposing the findings of a pre- and post-COVID pandemic work environment and a heterogeneous versus homogeneous sample population of IS professionals. While the results from the current replication study confirm the IS professional distinctiveness - IS professional identity relationship, the strength of the relationship differs significantly from the original. In addition, the current study found support for only three of the original seven dimensions of IS professional distinctiveness: continuous learning; breadth of knowledge, skills, and abilities; and stress. This replication study suggests that the factors contributing to the perceived distinctiveness of IS professionals may be more fluid and nuanced than originally conceptualized, with potential implications for how these professionals construct and maintain their professional identity.

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