Critical reflection in planning information systems: a contribution from critical systems thinking

Abstract

This paper presents a methodological framework to support the process of information systems (IS) planning in organizations. It draws on the ideas of critical systems thinking (CST), a research perspective that encourages the analysis of stakeholders' understandings prior to the selection and implementation of planning methods. The framework emphasizes continuous identification of concerns from stakeholders, and facilitates critical reflection in the exploration of possibilities for improvement. Some of these possibilities might require the support of IS and communication technologies. To define the framework, two systems theories are used: boundary critique and autopoiesis. The first one enables critical reflection on values and assumptions about potential situations or marginalization. The second one fosters continuous dialogue, listening and mutual collaboration between participants. With these theories, the framework enables people to reflect on issues of inclusion, exclusion and marginalization, and to participate in the design of plans for improvement. Ultimately, the definition of this framework suggests the importance of critical reflection about ethics to improve the practice of IS planning.Organizations are currently using information technologies (IT) as a necessity for survival. The times when IT and information systems (IS) associated were considered rare, a luxury or even advantage are past. With increasing collaboration and new forms of networking (Castells, 1996), the use of IS can open new opportunities for communication and interaction. For IS planning, new technologies and ways of working bring new challenges for organizations. Their rapid incorporation to business processes makes it difficult to reflect on the thinking that underpins the definition of plans to design and implement IS in organizations (Galliers, 2004).

Critical Systems Thinking on the Inefficiency in Post-Earthquake Relief: A Practice in Longmen Shan Fault Area

“…In fact, methodological pluralism emphasizes a combination of these different methodologies, thereby giving guidance to the implementation of the decision-making processes so as to reduce destructive power relations (Flood and Romm 1996). Córdoba (2009) presented a methodological framework using CST ideas to support the information systems process, which enabled people to reflect on the issues of inclusion, exclusion and marginalization, and to participate in the design of improvement plans. Bentley et al (2013) also used CST to guide information systems development (ISD) action research.…”

Evaluating a Student MIS in the Tertiary Education Sector: Addressing Functional-Operational Misalignment through Continuous Participative Evaluation

“…As evident in the author's discussion in Section 5.4, the most important aspect in addressing the functional-operational misalignment issue is the promotion of stakeholder involvement; enabling more effective ICT decisions on how to develop the system and staff capabilities through ongoing dialogue with affected parties. This is the underlying fundamental principle of widely cited CPE methods such as Remenyi et al's (1997) [15] ABR and Cordoba's (2009) [16] IS Planning Framework. The approach developed in this paper is a further useful step in enhancing this CPE body of research in that it addresses the misalignment issue, which was not previously explored in-depth.…”

“…Continuous participative approaches for example Remenyi et al's (1997) [15] Active Benefit Realisation (ABR 1 ), promote stakeholder involvement, motivation and commitment and improve ICT decision-making through establishing dialogue with all affected parties. Cordoba's (2009) [16] development of a methodological framework to support the process of IS planning emphasises continuous identification of concerns from stakeholders; it promotes continuous dialogue, listening and mutual collaboration between participants and facilitates critical reflection in the exploration of possibilities for improvement. CPE is integrated into organisational daily activities with a continuous focus on stakeholders, ICT quality and evolving business objectives.…”

Towards a Hard Systems Approach to IT Adoption in Organizations

“…The complexity of IT adoption in modern organizations has been highlighted by many researchers [1]. IT adoption refers to the decision to implement information technology in organizations [2].The main challenge of IT adoption is the need to reconcile different constituencies' worldviews in organizations.…”

“…IT adoption refers to the decision to implement information technology in organizations [2].The main challenge of IT adoption is the need to reconcile different constituencies' worldviews in organizations. Many researchers concede that a reductionist approach based on blueprint models which served organizations well in the past may not be suitable for today's complex organizational environment [1]. Traditional reductionist approaches offer simple solutions to complex problems where sophisticated solutions are needed [2].…”