The Use of the Grounded Theory Methodology in Investigating Practitioners' Integration of COTS Components in Information Systems

This paper challenges the view that Grounded Theory is an unacceptable methodology for IS research lacking rigor and robustness. A demonstration is given of the systematic and rigorous use of the grounded theory data analysis techniques in researching the use of commercial IT components for developing and maintaining business IS. The data analysis processes of coding, conceptualizing and categorizing are shown in action and explained. The techniques of memoing, constant comparison and theoretical coding are shown step-by-step so that the grounded theory methodology can be seen as a systematic framework for IS data analysis. When the methodology is properly applied it provides the structure and rigor needed to reach meaningful conclusions from qualitative data. This research article contributes to the literature showing grounded theory as a powerful research methodology applicable to IS research.

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