Using Grounded Theory to Acquire Knowledge About Critical Success Factors for Conducting Software Process Improvement Implementation Initiatives

2. Using Grounded Theory In Qualitative Studies

Ground Theory methodology was originally designed to guide investigations in the social sciences area. Nevertheless, it has also been used to support researchers to understand behavioral issues concerning organizational changes promoted by Information Systems implementation. One interesting study describing the application of grounded theory approach to investigate the critical success factors of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) implementation is presented by Nasirin, Birks, and Jones (2003). The results of this study demonstrate the benefits of applying grounded theory approach in qualitative studies conducted to understand the critical success factors and the implementation strategies to effectively introduce organizational changes.