Information Systems Development Methodologies and all that Jazz

This paper explores the relationships between jazz and the development of information systems. Similarities are drawn between music in general and information systems development methodologies and jazz is taken as a specific focus. The idea of music as an information system in its own right is outlined. As systems development methodologies move from formal approaches towards more ad hoc forms, the lessons that can be learned from jazz, such as improvisation and shared meaning, may become increasingly useful.