Research Methods in Information Systems – Beginner’s Practical Guide

If you’re new to Information Systems (IS) research, the range of available methods might seem overwhelming at first. But understanding the basics of research design, methodology, and analysis is the first step toward becoming a confident and capable IS researcher.

Whether you’re writing a thesis, preparing a journal paper, or planning your first field study, this practical guide will help you choose the right approach and execute it effectively.

Let’s look into the core methods used in IS research and how to apply them, step by step.

Introduction

Information Systems research examines how people, processes, and technology interact. It covers a wide spectrum of topics like digital transformation, system usability, data analytics, and IT management.

Because IS sits at the intersection of technology and society, it draws from both technical and social science disciplines. That means researchers can choose from a diverse toolkit of methods – depending on their questions, goals, and data.

Types

There are three main categories of research methods in IS:

Method Type	Description
Quantitative	Focuses on numerical data, testing hypotheses
Qualitative	Focuses on meaning, experience, and interpretation
Mixed-Methods	Combines both to gain a broader understanding

Knowing these categories helps you align your research question with the most suitable approach.

Quantitative

Quantitative methods are ideal when you want to measure something, compare groups, or test a theory.

Common techniques:

• Surveys – Useful for collecting data from large groups
• Experiments – Allow you to test cause-effect relationships
• Data Analytics – Analyze logs, transactions, or system usage

Tools:
SPSS, R, Python, Excel, SmartPLS

When to use it:
When your study involves measurable variables and you want to generalize findings.

Tips:

• Use validated survey instruments
• Ensure sample size is adequate
• Run tests for reliability and validity

Qualitative

Qualitative methods help you explore user behavior, system use, or organizational processes in depth.

Common techniques:

• Case Studies – In-depth examination of a real-life context
• Interviews – Capture user or stakeholder perspectives
• Focus Groups – Group discussions to explore shared views
• Observation – Watch users interact with systems directly

Tools:
NVivo, ATLAS.ti, Dedoose

When to use it:
When you want rich insights, especially for exploring new or complex topics.

Tips:

• Record and transcribe interviews
• Code your data systematically
• Reflect on your role as the researcher

Mixed

Mixed-methods research combines both qualitative and quantitative techniques in a single study.

Why use it?
Because it allows you to validate findings across methods or explore different aspects of the same problem.

Common designs:

• Sequential – One method follows another (e.g., survey after interviews)
• Concurrent – Both methods collected at the same time
• Embedded – One method supports the other within the same study

Tips:

• Be clear on how methods will complement each other
• Integrate findings in your discussion
• Use appropriate analysis tools for each data type

Design Science

Design Science Research (DSR) is unique to IS and involves creating and evaluating artifacts – like models, frameworks, or systems – to solve real problems.

Steps include:

1. Define a problem
2. Design an artifact (solution)
3. Demonstrate its use
4. Evaluate effectiveness
5. Contribute to theory or practice

Tools:
Prototypes, flowcharts, usability tests

When to use it:
When you’re building something new, like a decision support system or interface design.

Action Research

This is a collaborative method where you work directly with an organization to improve a system or process while conducting research.

Key features:

• Ongoing cycles of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting
• Solves a real-world problem while generating academic insights
• Strong focus on participation and co-creation

When to use it:
When you’re embedded in a setting (e.g., IT department, organization) and want to improve outcomes through research.

Choosing

Not sure which method to choose? Here’s a simple guide:

Research Goal	Suggested Method
Measure and test relationships	Quantitative
Explore user experiences	Qualitative
Combine measurement and insight	Mixed-Methods
Build and evaluate solutions	Design Science
Solve problems with a team	Action Research

Choose the method that best aligns with your question, context, and available resources.

Ethics

Always consider ethics when designing your study:

• Get informed consent
• Protect participant data
• Be transparent about your role
• Follow your institution’s ethics review process

Responsible research respects participants and builds trust in your findings.

Research in IS is as diverse as the field itself. With the right methods, tools, and mindset, beginners can design solid studies that contribute valuable insights. The key is to stay curious, stay ethical, and match your research goals to the right methodological path.

FAQs