Abstract
Several prominent perspectives that offer valuable insight and quality contributions to academic research currently influence the field of information systems (IS). The purpose of this paper is to discuss systems theory within the field of IS and provide evidence of its merit for adding useful perspective in conducting IS research. This is accomplished by the following: First, the historical background and context for systems theory is provided and put in relation to information systems; second, we review a case study that uses a systems theory perspective to demonstrate its real-world application; and third, we discuss the ways in which systems theory can make new contributions to the field of IS and which warrant its further consideration as a lens for conducting research. The purpose of this paper is to move the discussion forward regarding systems theory application in the IS field and to demonstrate that it has and continues to have significant research implications.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Kane J. and Weistroffer, Heinz Roland, "Systems Theory: Should Information Researchers Even Care?" (2016). SAIS 2016 Proceedings. 14.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/sais2016/14