Actor-network theory in information systems research

INTRODUCTION. The use of actor-network theory is becoming increasingly common amongst information systems researchers. This study argues that the utility of actor-network theory as a conceptual tool for information systems research can be increased by expressing actor-network theory in a graphical format. To this end, a graphical syntax was designed based on a comprehensive conceptualisation of actor-network theory. METHOD. Design science research was used to produce an artefact (the graphical syntax) which is believed to be of practical use (relevant), innovative and based on a rigorous body of knowledge. ANALYSIS. The graphical syntax is illustrated in this paper only by means of a fictitious example in order to maintain focus on the syntax and the concepts depicted by the syntax. RESULTS. The strengths and weaknesses of the syntax are related to those of actor-network theory itself. The principal strength is the inclusion of heterogeneous actors in the analysis, and the main weakness relates to the vague boundaries of the theory. This weakness is addressed by the ability of the syntax to identify the primary research foci. CONCLUSIONS. It is proposed that actor-network theory can be successfully represented by a graphical syntax and that it can increase the utility of actor-network theory as a conceptual tool for information systems research.http://www.informationr.nethb201

Adapting structuration theory to understand the role of reflexivity: Problematization, clinical audit and information systems

This paper is an exploratory account of the further development and application of a hybrid framework, StructurANTion, that is based on Structuration Theory and Actor Network Theory (ANT). The use of social theories in general and their use in information systems (IS) research in particular is explored leading to the use of the framework to examine the concept of what are termed humanchine networks in the context of clinical audit, within a healthcare Primary Care Trust (PCT). A particular focus is on the manner in which information systems-based reflexivity contributes to both entrenching a networks’ structurated order as well as contributing to its emancipatory change. The case study compares clinic-centric and patientcentric audit and seeks to further extend the understanding of the role of information and information systems within structurated humanchine activity systems. Conclusions indicate that the use of more socially informed IS methods and approaches can incorporate more emancipatory ideals and lead to greater adoption and usage of more relevant and useful clinical information systems and practices

Actor-Network Theory and its role in understanding the implementation of information technology developments in healthcare

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Actor-Network Theory (ANT) is an increasingly influential, but still deeply contested, approach to understand humans and their interactions with inanimate objects. We argue that health services research, and in particular evaluations of complex IT systems in health service organisations, may benefit from being informed by Actor-Network Theory perspectives.</p> <p>Discussion</p> <p>Despite some limitations, an Actor-Network Theory-based approach is conceptually useful in helping to appreciate the complexity of reality (including the complexity of organisations) and the active role of technology in this context. This can prove helpful in understanding how social effects are generated as a result of associations between different actors in a network. Of central importance in this respect is that Actor-Network Theory provides a lens through which to view the role of technology in shaping social processes. Attention to this shaping role can contribute to a more holistic appreciation of the complexity of technology introduction in healthcare settings. It can also prove practically useful in providing a theoretically informed approach to sampling (by drawing on informants that are related to the technology in question) and analysis (by providing a conceptual tool and vocabulary that can form the basis for interpretations). We draw on existing empirical work in this area and our ongoing work investigating the integration of electronic health record systems introduced as part of England's National Programme for Information Technology to illustrate salient points.</p> <p>Summary</p> <p>Actor-Network Theory needs to be used pragmatically with an appreciation of its shortcomings. Our experiences suggest it can be helpful in investigating technology implementations in healthcare settings.</p

The Role of IS in Islamic Banking: A Cultural Perspective

This research is located in the topic area of culture and information systems. It is set in the finance industry against the backdrop of globalisation. The particular focus is on the influence of Islamic culture on the role and development of information systems in Islamic banking. The notion of role is treated as a rich description of the behaviour and responsibilities of information systems. This research will use ANT (Actor Network Theory) to study the relevant actors i.e. humans and non-humans, heterogeneous networks and relationships that form the research area. An interpretive approach has been adopted for this work, using multiple case studies. The underlying theories and research design are discussed for this research in progress

BRING-YOUR-OWN-DEVICE (BYOD) IN THE UNIVERSITY SECTOR: AN INTERPRETIVE CASE STUDIES APPROACH (20)

This paper presents initial result of on-going research into Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) in the university sector as a means to discuss an inductive interpretive methods in information systems. It discusses the interpretivist view in information systems qualitative research and why it is chosen as the approach for this research. Explaining the ontological stance and subsequent epistemology, it contrasts positivist study and interpretivism. Multiple case studies are presented from the use of interviews and field observations. Following an iterative grounded process, it presents some interpretation of the interview transcriptions and shows how observation field notes can help support the interpretation towards the emergence of a grounded theory. Finally, the paper discusses interpretative theoretical frameworks: Actor Network Theory (ANT), Sociomateriality and Performativity to explore how such frameworks can be operationalised for on-going data collection and analysis

Beyond The ERP Implementation Study: A New Approach To The Study Of Packaged Information Systems: The Biography Of Artifacts Framework

Scholarship addressing the social and organizational issues surrounding enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is blossoming. However, many of these studies produce unhelpful readings of the characteristics of ERP and its implications for organizations. The typical ‘ERP implementation case study’ has been given undue emphasis within Information Systems (IS) research. Often influenced by constructivist frameworks and qualitative methodologies, including Actor Network Theory and ethnography, these approaches encourages actor-centered analysis and rich local pictures of the immediate response by organizations to these systems. However we are skeptical that the most useful way to study ERP is solely at the place where the user encounters it. One implication is that important influences from other levels and timeframes are missed from analysis. We propose an alternative research approach - the emerging ‘Biography of Artifacts Framework’ - that takes seriously the multiple locations and different timeframes in which ERP systems operate and evolve

The role of feedback literacy in written corrective feedback research : from feedback information to feedback ecology

Research on written corrective feedback (WCF) has received sustained interest in the field of second language acquisition and language education. This viewpoint article extends the theoretical and conceptual discussion on WCF research by introducing the notions of “feedback literacy” and “feedback ecology”. In this article, I first review three strands of WCF research. Then, I argue for the need to shift the focus of our investigation from feedback information (focusing on impact of feedback), to feedback process (focusing on learners “and teachers” perception of feedback), to feedback ecology (focusing on learners’ and teachers’ engagement of feedback and influences of such engagement). Putting forward a “feedback ecology” conceptual framework that is informed by Ecological Systems Theory, Actor-network Theory, and Complex Dynamic Systems Theory, I suggest three research tasks for future WCF studies, highlighting the affordances of qualitative research methodologies such as narrative inquiry.Publisher PDFPeer reviewe

Applying the Social of Translation to a System Project in a Lagging Enterprise

Although actor-network theory (ANT) is enjoying increasing interest in information systems research, we are still in the early stages of understanding and appreciating ANT’s potential for drawing lessons and developing guidance for industry practitioners. This paper focuses on extending that practical understanding. Here, ANT is applied in creating an account of a human-services firm’s experience in building its first major information system. Several practical implications are drawn that point the way toward further adapting ANT thinking for applied use in system-project contexts. Central among the insights are: the potential value in viewing project leadership in terms of actor-network management; the need to treat network management more as a matter of facilitation than control; the importance of recognizing that the effective management of interests may have to begin with the very constitution of those interests; the need to understand how indirect representations of key interests during software construction may break down when the interests themselves are directly engaged during implementation; the need to manage the particulars of critical issues on which network stability depends; and the importance of grasping the interdependence between network stability and adaptability in design

Using Activity Theory Successfully in Healthcare: A Systematic Review of the Theory's Key Challenges to Date

Collaborative tools in organizations become more and more apparent. These tools are being realized by novel information technology. Particularly, healthcare is a fast-evolving industry in terms of information system innovation. As the evolution is fast, and new systems are always error-prone due to socio-technical complexity, new analysis tools and methods for quality assurance must be adapted. In earlier research, we proposed Activity Theory as a fitting analysis tool due to the reason that it has advantages over other HCI theories, such as Actor-Network Theory or Distributed Cognition. However, several limitations became apparent during our studies. In the present work, we are conducting a systematic literature review of activity theoretical limitations and challenges to provide design guidelines for an improved version of Activity Theory. These implications can help to develop more advanced Activity Theory concepts and contributions; which in turn can improve the analysis results of socio-technical systems in healthcare

Using Activity Theory Successfully in Healthcare: A Systematic Review of the Theory\u27s Key Challenges to Date

Collaborative tools in organizations become more and more apparent. These tools are being realized by novel information technology. Particularly, healthcare is a fast-evolving industry in terms of information system innovation. As the evolution is fast, and new systems are always error-prone due to socio-technical complexity, new analysis tools and methods for quality assurance must be adapted. In earlier research, we proposed Activity Theory as a fitting analysis tool due to the reason that it has advantages over other HCI theories, such as Actor-Network Theory or Distributed Cognition. However, several limitations became apparent during our studies. In the present work, we are conducting a systematic literature review of activity theoretical limitations and challenges to provide design guidelines for an improved version of Activity Theory. These implications can help to develop more advanced Activity Theory concepts and contributions; which in turn can improve the analysis results of socio-technical systems in healthcare