Scientific Research in Information Systems

This book introduces higher-degree research students and early career academics to scientific research as occurring in the field of information systems and adjacent fields, such as computer science, management science, organization science, and software engineering. It covers the entire research process, from start to finish, placing particular emphasis on understanding aspects of research, such as motivation, modes of inquiry, theorising, planning for research, planning for publication, and ethical challenges in research. The book guides beginning researchers in their quest to do scholarly work and assists them in developing their own answers and strategies.

Jan Recker explains the fundamental concepts that govern scientific research. He then moves on to introduce the basic steps: choosing research questions, developing theory, building a research design, employing research methods, and finally writing academic papers. He also covers essentials of ethical conduct of scientific research. This second edition contains major updates on all these elements and significant expansions to several chapters. A companion website provides pedagogical materials and instructions for using this book in teaching. 

It focuses on the entire research process from start to finish and provides a guide not only for the methods, but for the ‘process of learning the life of a researcher.’ This well-written and easy-to-read book consists of eight chapters, divided into three parts. Each chapter ends with a list of references for further reading on each subject, totaling 200 in all. … The book is intended primarily for doctoral students and young scholars in the field of information systems. Alexei Botchkarev, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada



Young doctoral students in particular will benefit greatly from this book [...]. all doctoral students in information systems, especially at the beginning of their scientific project, as well as their supervisors, should use this book in doctoral studies. Roland Holten, Goethe University, Germany


For information systems scholars, this is a compulsory reading. Regardless of whether it is a bachelor thesis, master thesis or only during the doctorate. This book should be read! Volker Frehe, Osnabrück University, Germany

Great overview and useful advice, particularly about writing and publishing papers. Amanda Helliwell, University of Canberra, Australia