The ATISR Knowledge Base serves as a foundational reference for researchers, students, and professionals in the field of Information Systems (IS). By offering consistent definitions and explanations of essential IS concepts, this resource ensures clarity, promotes academic rigor, and supports scholarly communication across disciplines. Whether you’re preparing a research paper or entering the field, understanding these core concepts is a crucial step.
Purpose
The Knowledge Base was developed to standardize how information systems terminology is used within ATISR publications and related academic work. It addresses the frequent challenge of inconsistent definitions across research papers, helping both authors and reviewers align on common meanings.
This reference tool is especially useful for early-stage researchers who may still be navigating the landscape of IS literature. By clearly defining core concepts, it reduces ambiguity and strengthens the quality of scholarly work.
Scope
The ATISR Knowledge Base includes a wide range of terms that span across various IS subfields, including:
- Systems analysis and design
- Decision support systems
- Enterprise information systems
- Human-computer interaction
- IT governance and strategy
- Digital transformation
- Data analytics and business intelligence
Each term is carefully reviewed and updated by field experts to ensure its relevance and accuracy.
Format
Definitions in the ATISR Knowledge Base are typically structured to provide more than just a dictionary-style meaning. Each entry includes:
- A concise definition
- The concept’s origin or theoretical foundation
- Its application in modern research or practice
- Related terms for context
For example:
Term: Decision Support System (DSS)
Definition: A computer-based system that helps decision-makers utilize data and models to solve unstructured or semi-structured problems.
Context: Commonly used in business analytics, strategic planning, and healthcare systems.
Related Terms: Business Intelligence, Expert System
This format allows users to not only understand what a term means but also how it fits into broader research discussions.
Use
The Knowledge Base is often referenced during the paper submission and review process. Authors are encouraged to use these standard definitions to improve the clarity and precision of their manuscripts. Reviewers may also refer to it when evaluating terminology usage in submitted papers.
Additionally, the Knowledge Base supports curriculum development by offering faculty a reliable source for teaching definitions in IS courses.
Updates
The Knowledge Base is reviewed regularly by a committee of scholars who specialize in different IS domains. Updates are based on:
- New research trends
- Evolving industry practices
- Feedback from ATISR authors and reviewers
- Shifts in global terminology usage
This ensures that the Knowledge Base remains relevant and reflects the current state of the discipline.
Benefits
The ATISR Knowledge Base offers several key advantages:
- Improves consistency across academic papers
- Supports clearer communication among researchers
- Reduces misunderstandings in interdisciplinary research
- Enhances the quality of peer reviews
- Acts as a reference tool for teaching and learning
For doctoral students and early-career researchers, it also serves as a foundation for building a solid understanding of IS theory and terminology.
Access
The Knowledge Base is typically accessible through the ATISR website or publication portal. It may be organized alphabetically or by thematic categories, making it easy to navigate. Users can search for specific terms or browse by area of interest.
Some entries may include links to foundational literature, examples of usage, or case studies for deeper understanding.
The ATISR Knowledge Base plays a central role in shaping a shared language within the information systems community. By offering standardized, well-contextualized definitions, it contributes to the clarity and consistency of academic communication. For anyone involved in IS research, education, or practice, this resource is a valuable reference point.
FAQs
What is the ATISR Knowledge Base?
A standardized reference of IS terms for researchers and students.
Who uses the Knowledge Base?
Authors, reviewers, faculty, and IS students use it regularly.
How often is it updated?
It is updated regularly by a committee of IS experts.
Are definitions peer-reviewed?
Yes, each term is reviewed by field experts for accuracy.
Is it available online?
Yes, it is accessible through the ATISR website or portal.