The Past Decade View of the IS Workforce and Gender Literature: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Due to the demand of Information Systems (IS) professionals, gender in the IS workforce (ISWF) has been a continuing research topic. Despite these efforts, there remains a need for a greater understanding of gender theory and an individual's decision to pursue, succeed, and obtain promotion within the IS workforce. This research uses a systematic literature review process to critically examine the research from the last decade on gender and the ISWF. A conceptual model, ISWF Multi-Factor Model, is introduced combining IS and vocational guidance theories to categorize the focus of research identified in the systematic literature review into four areas: Individual, Workforce, Individual Influences, and Environmental Influences. The findings of this study outline the current state of gender and ISWF research and are relevant to research and practice.