fp7 [DS vs. BS]

Audio: http:./mp3/fp7.mp3

Given such an articulated business need, IS research is conducted in two complementary phases. Behavioral science addresses research through the development and justification of theories that explain or predict phenomena related to the identified business need. Design science addresses research through the building and evaluation of artifacts designed to meet the identified business need.

The goal of behavioral-science research is truth. The goal of design-science research is utility.

As argued above, our position is that truth and utility are inseparable. Truth informs design and utility informs theory. An artifact may have utility because of some as yet undiscovered truth. A theory may yet to be developed to the point where its truth can be incorporated into design.

In both cases, research assessment via the justify/evaluate activities can result in the identification of weaknesses in the theory or artifact and the need to refine and reassess.

The refinement and reassessment process is typically described in future research directions.