| Summary, etc |
"Today is the age of digital transformation. In an era such as this, marked by rapid technological advancement, the landscape of research in information technology and information systems has evolved profoundly. As scholars and practitioners, we are witnessing a growing demand for methodological rigor, adaptability, and innovation in how research is conducted, analyzed, and disseminated in these domains. This book, Research Methods in Information Technology and Information Systems, is a response to that demand. It is a comprehensive resource designed to guide current and aspiring researchers through the diverse and dynamic world of IT and IS research methodologies.<br/><br/>We wrote this book because we've been there ourselves as students and nov-ice researchers, facing a complex and often confusing world of research meth-ods in IT and IS where technological change is constant and the rules seem to evolve just as quickly. Over the years, as professors, researchers, and profession-als in the field, we've seen firsthand how challenging it can be for students and early-career scholars to navigate this landscape. Our motivation was simple: to create a practical, accessible, and up-to-date guide that speaks directly to the needs of those just starting their research journey or looking to strengthen it.<br/><br/>The digital age has reshaped how we ask questions, collect data, and interpret results. Emerging technologies like Al, cloud computing, mobile apps, and ana-lytics aren't just subjects of research, and they're transforming the research pro-cess itself. We felt there was a real need for a book that reflects this reality. One that doesn't just list methods, but connects them to real-world challenges in IT and IS. One that helps students understand not only what to do, but why, when, and how to do it. And most importantly, one that bridges theory with practice.<br/><br/>The book is divided into two main sections. The first section (Chapters 1-6), authored by Dr. Karim Feroz, focuses on quantitative research methods. It begins by situating research within the broader context of digital transformation, high-lighting how emerging technologies are reshaping both the objects of study and the tools used for inquiry. The six chapters in this section systematically cover the foundations and advanced techniques of quantitative research: from designing surveys and conducting longitudinal studies to analyzing complex datasets and navigating the publication process. With special emphasis on tools, strategies, and contemporary challenges, this section provides a robust foundation for con-ducting impactful quantitative research in IT and IS. The second section (Chapter 7-12), authored by Dr. Kem Lingelbach, explores qualitative research methods and their growing significance in the study of socio-technical systems. Through six richly detailed chapters, it addresses a wide range of qualitative approaches, including grounded theory, interview studies, content analysis, and focus groups, while also exploring the influence of digital technologies on research practices. This section emphasizes the philosophical underpinnings of qualitative research, offers guidance on data collection and analysis, and discusses strategies for publishing qualitative work in high-impact journals. It also considers emerging frontiers such as digital ethnography, AI-enabled qualitative analysis, and virtual reality applications in research. Throughout the book, you'll find practice labs designed to help you apply what you've learned. These labs aren't just academic exercises; they're hands-on scenarios that bring the material to life. Whether you're designing a survey, analyzing case study data, or choosing a method for your thesis, these labs will help you build confidence and develop practical research skills. We've written this book with you, the graduate student, the novice researcher, the curious learner, in mind. Our goal is to make research feel less intimidating and more empowering. Research doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, guidance, and mindset. It can be a rewarding and even exciting part of your academic and professional growth. We extend our sincere gratitude to our colleagues, students, and professional communities whose insights, feedback, and encouragement have shaped the development of this book. We also acknowledge the growing community of interdisciplinary researchers who continuously push the boundaries of what IT and IS research can achieve in a digital world." —Preface |
