Axiomatic Theories and Improving the Relevance of Information Systems Research

Axiomatic Theories and Improving the Relevance of Information Systems Research This paper examines fact that a significant number empirical information systems (IS) studies engage in confirmative testing self-evident axiomatic theories without yielding highly relevant knowledge for IS community. The authors conduct both horizontal analysis 72 representative an in-depth vertical 3 well-known (i.e., technology acceptance model, diffusion innovation theory, institutional theory) order to measure how pervasive such is. discovered more than 60% 666 hypotheses from could be regarded as theory elements. In analysis, 68.1% 1,301 148 articles were axiomatic. Based on these findings, propose four complementary research approaches: (1) identifying disconfirming boundary conditions, (2) measuring relative importance causal factors, (3) stage progression toward visionary goals when nature can extended future visions, (4) engaging conceptual design goals. They argue approaches enhance relevance outcomes sacrificing methodological rigor.