The development of the GIST (Grounding Information Systems) methodology: determining situated requirements in information systems analysis

The outcomes of the research argue for a new role for the systems analyst as postmodern 'bricoleue and tentatively propose the usefulness of social science methods in information systems practice.

Abstract

This thesis develops a methodology for situated requirements determination in
\ninformation systems analysis. The thesis challenges convention and adds to the
\nbody of knowledge in this area since the methods of the methodology are more
\nusually associated with the social sciences. The role of the systems analyst and
\nthe nature of information systems as a distinct discipline form a major part of
\nthe thesis and the scope of this investigation includes an exposition of
\ninformation systems methodologies in general and 'soft' methodologies in
\nparticular.
\nA major element of the thesis is the empirical work carried out in which the
\nresearcher has undertaken two 'live' systems analysis studies using the
\nmethodology which has been developed in action supported by computer
\nsoftware for qualitative data analysis The results from the study are presented
\nin terms of learning and are analysed to help answer the questions relating to
\nthe appropriateness of the methodology and the usefulness of the methodology
\nfor practising systems analysts.
\nThe research methodology used is action case and the appropriateness of this is
\nexamined in depth since studies of this type raise a number of questions relating
\nto the validity of this type of research and the role of the researcher.
\nThe thesis draws together the different problems and questions that arise in
\norder to produce a coherent, consistent and academically worthy account based
\nupon the literature and empirical findings. In short the thesis addresses the
\nbasic issue that motivated its production, namely, how systems analysts faced
\nwith organisational complexity really find out what is going on.
\nThe outcomes of the research argue for a new role for the systems analyst as
\npostmodern 'bricoleue and tentatively propose the usefulness of social science
\nmethods in information systems practice.