Grounded theory method in information systems research: its nature, diversity and opportunities
Date
2013
Authors
Birks, David
Fernandez, Walter
Levina, Natalia
Nasirin, Syed
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Publisher
Palgrave Macmillan Ltd
Abstract
This article introduces this special issue by exploring the nature and diversity of the Grounded Theory Method (GTM) and the opportunities associated with its use in Information Systems (IS) research. As guest editors for this special issue and as practicing grounded theorists, we feel that the nature of GTMis often misunderstood and its label abused in different ways. Therefore, in this editorial article, we attempt to clarify what we see as the essential characteristics of GTM. We also present some issues that are commonly discussed among grounded theorists, but which are less well known publicly. We argue that GTM can be a powerful tool for IS scholars interested in theory development, allowing researchers to conduct pioneering research with both flexibility and rigour. This argument is illustrated by the seven papers that we have selected for this special issue. These papers represent the wide variety of ways in which GTM can be used in our field. Further, they show how, through innovative uses of GTM, IS researchers can address some long-standing research challenges.
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Keywords
Keywords: Essential characteristic; Grounded theory; Research challenges; Theory development; Information systems; Research
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Source
European Journal of Information Systems
Type
Journal article
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Restricted until
2037-12-31
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