A Mixed Methods Approach To Combining Behavioral And Design Research Methods In Information Systems Research

The design research method has recently been introduced in information systems research as an alternative to behavioral (i.e., qualitative and quantitative) research methods. It is, however, recognized in literature that behavioral research methods can be used as part of a design research project. Unfortunately, there are currently no clear guidelines on how both research methods can and should be combined. In this paper, we propose a mixed methods approach to how behavioral and design research methods can be combined in a coherent manner. In addition, we identify five specific mixed methods research designs that describe how a supplementary behavioral research study can be conducted within the context of a larger design research project. This mixed methods approach may draw more attention from design researchers to the methodological implications of using behavioral research methods. It may also expose the design researcher to a richer set of behavioral research approaches and techniques.