A critical framework for information systems methodologies

The last decade has witnessed a profusion of Information Systems Development methodologies, yet many Information Systems are still rejected and unusable. In an attempt to address this problem a more socially informed approach is required, a perspective which considers the human, social and organizational domains. This paper proposes an approach that is broadly based upon the principles of Critical Theory. The intention is that a matrix will be developed which recommends the use of a particular methodology given the organizational situation and the technical system requirements. It is hoped this framework will be a useful precursor for the selection of the appropriate methodology and hopefully go some way towards redressing the crisis facing the Information Systems community.

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