Advancing Design Science Research with Solution-based Probing

Abstract

We propose solution-based probing as an extension of action design research. The core idea is that researchers bring a prototype solution (probe) into one or more fields and explore to synthesize robust and generalizable design knowledge, along with knowledge of the phenomena and correlations we discover. We believe proposing solutions creates opportunities for researchers to innovate and to document the impact. In addition, solutions can be effective probes for advancing theory, in terms of design theories and in creating exploratory foundations for behavioral and causal theory. We illustrate solution-based probing with four exemplar studies in the areas governance of municipalities, police work in informing citizens, learning in public schools, and naval decision making. We identify critical activities for ideating and initiating solutionbased probing and for deriving sustainable solutions and scholarly knowledge from such studies. Finally, we discuss future directions for improving researchers' ability to conduct high-impact solutionbased probing research.

Stakeholder Strategy and Design Alignment Framework for Design Science Research – A Study in the Context of VR-Aided Marketing and Sales

“…The suggested framework is an attempt to offer more organizational value than the DSR Methodology initially. In this regard, the suggested framework is similar to the ADR [57], however, it also combines some elements from the solution-based probing [9].…”

“…The solution-based probing seeks to find mutually beneficial and sustainable solutions by shaping the solution definition during the development process [9]. It gives focus on the values of different stakeholders involved in the DSR process by introducing four development phases: ideate, initiate, intervene and incubate.…”

“…During the incubation phase, the system is independently used by the users and also other stakeholders to proof the value of the system and validated by the research. The authors of the solutionbased probing [9] emphasize the initiation -phase and the engagement of stakeholders in search for solution objectives and the design of a solution. In addition they emphasize the incubation -phase to demonstrate the impact of the use of the solution beyond the client / user.…”

“…ADR highlights organizational value instead of building the artifacts and technological rigor and, thus, it has focused on the weaknesses of the DSR Methodology. More recently, the solution-based probing [9] has become an attempt to highlight the issue of solution objectives definition, which is also considered in both DSR Methodology and ADR. While the DSR Methodology is said to concentrate too much on building the artifacts and technological rigor and while the ADR deals with rather narrow solution objectives (organizational value), the solution-based probing concentrates on broad interaction with users and stakeholders in field settings.…”

“…The solution-based probing is expected to yield comprehensive design theory for a particular domain and field experiments for behavioral theory and human use of technology. The authors of solution-based probing [9] emphasize the engagement of stakeholders in search for solution objectives and the design of a solution beyond the client or user. However, the focus is more on testing and developing the solution probing in different domains and markets rather than integrating research to the process.…”