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Based on
a recently completed major study of an emerging business practice in the
area of information systems management, this paper explains and discusses
several important aspects of using the “Glaserian” approach to develop
empirically grounded theory. The paper presents a research model and
delineates a number of characteristics, risks and demands intrinsic to the
method, which can help researchers contemplating the use of grounded
theory methodology for their studies.
Grounded
theory is an effective approach to produce rigorous research that is
simultaneously relevant to business and management theory development and
to professional practice. Grounded theory allowed the researcher to
investigate a new and potentially powerful work structure
resulting from the convergence of IT
outsourcing practices, virtual organisations, enabling technology, and
demands for both global competitiveness and rapid delivery of business
solutions
The
article discusses processes and issues confronted by the
researcher while using the method over a period of two years, offering a
reflective analysis on “doing” grounded theory. The paper stages the
discussion in four interrelated sections to (a) introduce the reader to
the grounded theory method, presenting the argument for simultaneously
rigorous and relevant research; (b) show a model depicting the
process of following the grounded theory method in conjunction with case
study data; (c) describe aspects of the method that are often
misunderstood or misrepresented, this section also discusses practical
issues such as recording interviews and using computer-based data analysis
tools; and, (d) mention personal demands and risks imposed by the grounded
theory method.
Keywords:
Grounded Theory, Glaserian Approach, Information Systems Research,
Socio-technical Studies.
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