Reflections on the Use of Grounded Theory in Interpretive Information Systems Research

The paper discusses the lessons learned from using Grounded Theory in an interpretive case study based piece of research, and provides guidance for the use of the method in interpretive studies.

Abstract

In Information Systems research there are a growing number of studies that must necessarily draw upon the contexts, experiences and narratives of practitioners. This calls for research approaches that are qualitative and may also be interpretive. These may include case studies or action research projects. For some researchers, particularly those with limited experience of interpretive qualitative research, there may be a lack of confidence when faced with the prospect of collecting and analysing the data from studies of this kind. In this paper we reflect on the lessons learned from using Grounded Theory in an interpretive case study based piece of research. The paper discusses the lessons and provides guidance for the use of the method in interpretive studies.