Information systems theories are modeled to create an interface between information technologies (information domain) and the formalism of the general system’s theory. Theories in information systems are stratified in the spheres in which information exists (Emilia, 2011). Also, they are dependent on the nature and type of information in context. The importance of information systems and the theories created around them is that they assist in the ‘metabolism’ of data and information. This means the theories are created to aid in the explanation of the concept of information systems in terms that are applicable and comprehensible to different audiences. However, despite the differences in the theories of information systems, the central element is that data/information must always remain in the conversation. Börje Langefors’s Information systems theory from Elsevier Journal is the article of choice for this critique exercise.
The article begins by acknowledging the fundamental aspects on which information systems are created. Indeed, the dynamics of information and how it is processed, conveyed, and presented are the reasons why information systems exist. As such, the systems are designed to enhance the stages and processes that data/information undergo for the ultimate convenience of people. Notably, information systems are created based on two elements, hardware and software (Hevner & Chatterjee, 2010). However, most systems are intensive on software as opposed to hardware. However, the article points out that the integration of all these elements is the foundation on which all the information systems theories are built.
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Computers are viewed as the recurring structures on which information systems are created. According to Börje, the use of information system poses new challenges almost every time hence the need for them to be developed and improved. Notably, information systems are structured in accordance with the designated task model. In other words, the spectrum of the challenges to be countered or duties to be accomplished form the basis for the task model. Börje partitions the task model into two main areas. The ‘infological’/behavioral area and the ‘datalogical’/computer technology oriented area (Langefors, 2013). He further explains that these are the main elements considered when information systems theories are created.
Börje acknowledges that many information theories cannot be comprehensively covered in his article. However, he stipulates that the differences in the theories shape the types of information systems that exist. Particularly, he mentions four main types of information systems including Transaction Processing Systems (TPS), Executive Support systems (ESS), Decision Support Systems (DSS), and Management Information Systems (MIS) (Yogesh, 2009). It is from these four types of information systems that the theories are derived. For instance, the general theory of entrepreneurship is one of the types of information systems theories coined from TPS and ESS. Börje points out that it is inescapable to refer to the types of information systems when discussing the theories of information systems. Other types of information systems theories include the absorptive capacity theory, administrative behavior theory, contingency theory, resource dependency theory, and prospect theory among others.
Like other articles, this journal is precise in covering the subject. First, the author begins from the fundamental aspects that pertain to the topic. For instance, he starts by giving an analysis of how information systems come about and the definitive structures of such systems. He then identifies problems and explores the fundamentals of information systems. It is after laying this foundation that he transcends into complexities and specific theories of information systems (Kishor, 2011). Indeed, this is a great approach. Similarly, the books of the Bible are arranged chronologically from the creation of the first man in Genesis to the prediction of the end of the world in Revelation. However, as the books progress, Noah, Enoch, Abraham, Moses and other notable figures of the Bible are brought to the fore. The chain continues until the New Testament where Jesus, The Messiah, is introduced. As such, a smooth transition of events both chronologically and in terms of complexity is seen throughout the Bible. There is, therefore, a clear demonstration of the vitality of building ideas or concepts from their basic elements or origins to their complexities, something that is observed in the Journal article. Generally, the article is an excellent piece of reading that contains critical insight into the information systems theories. However, there are a few elements that the author did not explore fully. For instance, when explaining why information systems exist, the article uses the models, specifically the ‘infological’/behavioral and the ‘datalogical’/computer technology model. While this is commendable, the models disregard the synthesis/processing of information and the importance of its acquisition (Hirsch et al., 2010). Indeed, when wrong data/information is acquired, the whole concept of information systems is compromised. Also, the intermediary processes between input and output are critical to both the system managers and targeted market/audience.
In addition, while the article is based on discussing the theories in information systems, a criterion is missing on how to identify the critical theories. Indeed, it is true that many information systems theories exist due to the dynamicity of technology, consumer models, and information/data structures and as such, it is almost impossible to exhaust all of them in a single article. However, it is unsatisfactory how the article covers these theories. After pointing out the most important ones, the author should have provided a meriting criterion or checklist on how scholars and students can quickly identify them. Ultimately, this would have increased the value and overall effectiveness of the article in covering the theories in information systems.
References
Emilia, C. (2011). Systems Science and Collaborative Information Systems : Theories, Practices and New Research: Theories, Practices and New Research.
Hevner, A. & Chatterjee, S. (2010). Design Research in Information Systems : Theory and Practice. Springer Science & Business Media.
Hirsch, M., Pardalos, P. M. & Murphey, R. (2010). Dynamics of Information Systems : Theory and Applications. Springer Science & Business Media.
Langefors, B. (2013). Information systems theory . Information Systems Volume 2, Issue 4, 1977 - 2013, Pages 207-219.
Kishor, V. (2011). Inter-Organizational Information Systems and Business Management : Theories for Researchers: Theories for Researchers. IGI Global.
Yogesh, D. K. (2009). Handbook of Research on Contemporary Theoretical Models in Information Systems . IGI Global.
