Using Inquiring Practice and Uncovering Exformation for Information Systems Development

Abstract

One of the oldest themes in information systems (IS) research concerns the relationship between developers and users of information systems. Over the years, IS scholars and IS practitioners have addressed the problem in a variety of ways, often focusing on how the use of social techniques can improve understanding between the two parties. Users, however, still find themselves working with systems, which do not match their requirements, needs, and expectations. We suggest that the problematic developer-user dynamic can be addressed by introducing an inquiring practice approach to information systems development. Consequently, this chapter conceptualizes a new way of understanding information systems development through the lenses of inquiring practice, Socratic dialogue, and the uncovering of exformation. We show that by applying this approach, we can enhance the inquiring capabilities of organizations, and thereby facilitate design and development of better information systems.