Challenges to Novel Theories and Theorizing in the IS Field

Abstract
Recently Grover & Lyytinen (2015) recognized the need for blue-ocean theorizing as one approach to leverage theorizing skills and generate better knowledge in fields such as information systems (IS) which deal with fast changing, complex phenomena. In this paper, we critically scrutinize this proposition and review its impediments and merits for the IS field. We loosely call such theorizing efforts as searches for indigenous theory- a set of constructs and relationships that are original and which seek, reveal or explain in novel ways new or existing phenomena. We make the case for such indigenous theorizing and identify and discuss factors that have curbed its development in our field. We note tradeoffs determining its worthiness in light of unprecedented and emergent digital phenomena that characterize the field. Guidelines are put forward how the IS field and its stakeholders can productively engage in and evaluate indigenous theory searches.

Biography
Kalle Lyytinen (PhD, Computer Science, University of Jyväskylä; Dr. h.c. Umeå University, Copenhagen Business school, Lappeenranta University of Technology) is Distinguished University Professor and Iris S. Wolstein professor of Management Design at Case Western Reserve University, and a distinguished visiting professor at Aalto University, Finland. He is among the top five IS scholars in terms of his h-index (89); he is the LEO Award recipient (2013), AIS fellow (2004), and the former chair of IFIP WG 8.2 “Information systems and organizations”. He has published over 400 refereed articles and edited or written over 30 books or special issues. He conducts research on digital innovation concerning its nature, dynamics and organization, design work, requirements in large systems, and emergence digital infrastructures.