A Dynamic Model of Embeddedness in Digital Infrastructures

2019 | Information Systems Research | Citations: 21

Authors: Fürstenau, Daniel; Baiyere, Abayomi; Kliewer, Natalia

Abstract: Digital infrastructures are a result of individual yet interdependent systems ev ... Expand

Abstract: Digital infrastructures are a result of individual yet interdependent systems evolving in relation to each other. In this paper, we identify three processes by which individual systems become embedded into digital infrastructures. First, there are parallel processes, in which systems become embedded independently of each other. Second, there are competitive processes, in which the embeddedness of one system increases at the expense of another. Finally, there are spanning processes, in which bridges are built between different embedded systems. The three processes, synthesized into a dynamic model of digital infrastructure embeddedness, offer much-needed conceptual clarity to the area of digital infrastructure evolution. They also provide insight into the emergence of three forms of digital infrastructures: silofied, regenerated, and unified. Reflecting an interconnection view, our research further facilitates an understanding of infrastructure inertia and its associated consequence. Collapse

Topics: information technology infrastructure embedded system mobile system innovation management accounting

Methods: qualitative interview network analysis longitudinal research cluster analysis triangulation

Transactive memory systems and Web 2.0 in knowledge sharing: A conceptual model based on activity theory and critical realism

2018 | Information Systems Journal | Citations: 0

Authors: Simeonova, Boyka

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to advance understanding of interactive knowledge shari ... Expand

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to advance understanding of interactive knowledge sharing (KS) processes through exploring the role of transactive memory systems (TMSs) and Web 2.0. In the context of the information systems literature, there is little focus on their particular role in KS. To address this gap, this paper develops a conceptual model based on activity theory and critical realism outlining the role of TMS and Web 2.0 as mediating tools. This paper further reveals that their use as tools depends on deeper underlying structures/factors embedded within the community, namely, informal networks and trust among people. The new conceptual model and theoretical propositions are then illustrated by a qualitative study undertaken in Bulgarian organisations. This illustrative case provides support for the model, where TMS and Web 2.0 are found to facilitate KS. It further demonstrates that informal networks and trust among people support the use and the positive effects of these tools. The contribution of this paper is in the new analytical approach and conceptual model developed, which advances our understanding of interactive KS by explaining the linkages between the various factors involved. Collapse

Topics: web 2.0 information system use knowledge sharing electronic mail top management support

Methods: conceptual modelling qualitative interview qualitative content analysis

Theories: activity theory

Exploring Enterprise Transformation from a Path Dependence Perspective: A Recycling Case and Conceptual Model

2015 | International Conference on Business Informatics | Citations: 0

Authors: Fürstenau, Daniel; Kliewer, Natalia

Abstract: In dispersed, multinational enterprises, complex integrations of information sys ... Expand

Abstract: In dispersed, multinational enterprises, complex integrations of information systems are a commonly hated threat as they render difficult fundamental changes of IT structures and standards embedded therein. This paper explores how integrations can turn into a burden and how thereby a company’s technology platform can lock-in to a local optimum. We conceptualize information system architectures – a company’s set of information systems and integrations – as networks. Based thereupon, we suggest a network model of path building that formalizes architectural growth processes and on-top technology adoptions, as when new systems attach preferentially to important hubs. Agentbased simulations give insights into how different growth parameters, i.e. new systems’ degree of integration and preferentiality, increase the architecture’s complexity and can reinforce predominant architectural patterns, such as “islands of shared technologies”. We contrast the simulation results to empirical data that show the emergence of a fragmented IT landscape in a regionallydispersed recycling company. Collapse

Topics: enterprise architecture user requirement technology adoption IT manager requirements analysis

Methods: simulation agent based simulation theory development experiment qualitative interview

SHADOW IT SYSTEMS: DISCERNING THE GOOD AND THE EVIL

2014 | European Conference On Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Fürstenau, Daniel; Rothe, Hannes

Abstract: Shadow IT is becoming increasingly important as digital work practices make it e ... Expand

Abstract: Shadow IT is becoming increasingly important as digital work practices make it easier than ever for business units crafting their own IT solutions. Prior research on shadow IT systems has often used fixed accounts of good or evil: They have been celebrated as powerful drivers of innovation or demonized as lacking central governance. We introduce a method to IT managers and architects enabling a more nuanced understanding of shadow IT systems with respect to their architectural embeddedness. Drawing on centrality measures from network analysis, the method portrays shadow IT systems as most critical if they hold a central position in a network of applications and information flows. We use enterprise architecture data from a recycling company to demonstrate and evaluate the method in a real project context. In the example, several critical and yet disregarded shadow IT systems have been identified and measures were taken to govern them decently. Collapse

Topics: enterprise architecture IT manager innovation management information systems standardization requirements analysis

Methods: network analysis design science case study design artifact literature study

RFID-BASED INDIVIDUALIZATION OF EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY AND RECYCLING FOR WEEE

2011 | European Conference On Information Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Thoroe, Lars; Appelhanz, Shanna; Schumann, Matthias

Abstract: Recycling of ICT and other electronic products is gaining in importance due to b ... Expand

Abstract: Recycling of ICT and other electronic products is gaining in importance due to both ecological and economic reasons such as the shortage of resources contained in electronic devices. European legislation has handed the responsibility for recycling electronic products to the producers. However, the WEEE directive (waste electrical and electronic equipment) and its national transpositions have been criticized for failing to reach the original goal of promoting design for recycling. In this paper we analyze how detailed object-related information can support recycling processes. We propose a distributed RFID-based waste management information system for electronic devices which enables individualizing producer responsibility but also supports other goals of waste management by providing detailed object-related information. We first analyze deficiencies in current practice and then conduct a requirements analysis for the proposed system. Based on this we create a system design model, consisting of data and object model and system architecture. Collapse

Topics: radio frequency identification systems design enterprise architecture requirements analysis computer hardware

Methods: design science data modeling unified modeling language case study design artifact testing