Untangling causality in design science theorizing

Dirk Hovorka, Bond University
Shirley Gregor, Australian National University

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Published Version.

Hovorka, D., & Gregor, S. (2010). Untangling causality in design science theorizing. Presented at the 5th biennial ANU workshop on information systems foundations: Theory building in information systems, Canberra, Australia.

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© Copyright Dirk Hovorka & Shirley Gregor, 2010

Abstract

Although Design Science Research aims to create new knowledge through design and evaluation of artefacts, the causal agency through which artefacts obtain predicted outcomes is frequently underspecified. Within this domain of knowledge, six types of causal reasoning can be applied by researchers to more clearly articulate why desired outcomes will result from the implementation of the artefact. In addition, reflecting on the causal foundations for the design will enable more definitive evaluation of the design theory and for scientific explanation of the behavior of the artefact-in-use. The proposed framework is based on an extensive literature in causal theory and the implications discussed will enable researchers to articulate the causal reasoning used in Design Science theorizing.