| 1. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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A Double Helix Metaphor for Use and Usefulness in Informing Systems
- 2007
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Ingår i: Use and Redesign in IS: Double Helix Relationships?. - 9781932886054 ; 10, s. 273-295
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Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Following the theme of this monograph, this paper discusses a dialectic we perceive to subsist between meaningful use and reflection upon use. This dialectic between experiencing use and reflecting upon experiencing use (or thinking, and thinking about thinking) may be considered in the following way. Each of these elements is subject to change. As reflection triggers change in use, and such change triggers further reflection, a spiral comes about. Lived human experience, and reflection upon that experience, seems to shape a double helix. In this paper, the authors suggest a need for a hermeneutically-informed, phenomenological approach when considering the complexities of informing systems, viewed as human activity systems. It is suggested that human actors, as users of informing systems, must own and control any inquiry into use in relation to design for themselves, and that individual sensemaking processes are the key to successful interaction within the double helix metaphor.
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| 2. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
A Socio-technical toolbox for business systems analysis and design
- 2015
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Ingår i: Conference Proceedings. - 1613-0073. ; 1374, s. 29-31
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper provides an overview of a socio-technical toolbox (STT) based on a combination of methods from a number of contemporary socio-technical (ST) methodologies. The STT supports a pragmatic ST approach to organizational change practice and job redesign. It has been developed and used in practice in many different types of organizations over a period of many years. The use in practice of STT supports constructive learning and develops critical analysis skills of the students who will be future systems analysts or designers. It also improves companies' understanding of their job practices and enhances their learning about their business sustainability. Our findings show that these experiences of improvements are not dependent on the sector or the size of the involved companies and confirm the perceived usefulness and relevance of ST analysis in practice.
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| 3. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Personalized Support with ‘Little’ Data
- 2014
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Ingår i: Creating Value for All Through IT. IFIP WG 8.6 International Conference on Transfer and Diffusion of IT, TDIT 2014, Aalborg, Denmark, June 2-4, 2014. Proceedings. - 1868-4238. - 9783662434581 ; 429, s. 355-358
-
Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this paper we look at opportunities to support the creation of value for all through the use of end-user-owned Virtual Personal Assistant. We use a chat-bot as example of technology with a possibility for transferring and diffusing new functionality, features and capabilities. This category of software can create potential value through its AI and natural language processing combined with emulation and imitation of emotional engagement which is personal, private and as such allows for intimate contextual relevance to be developed.
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| 4. |
- Nissen, Hans-Erik, et al.
(författare)
-
Double Helix Relationships in Use and Design of Informing Systems: Lessons to Learn from Phenomenology and Hermeneutics
- 2007
-
Ingår i: Use and Redesign in IS: Double Helix Relationships?. - 9781932886054 ; 10, s. 001-019
-
Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The theme of this monograph of Informing Science is a dialectic we perceive to exist between meaningful use and reflection upon use. This dialectic between use and reflection on use (or thinking, and thinking about thinking) may be considered in the following way. Each of these elements is subject to change. As reflection triggers change in use, and such change triggers further reflection, a spiral comes about. Lived human experience, and reflection upon that experience, seems to shape a double helix. The monograph contains contributions exploring particular ways in which studies of use could benefit from a relationship to philosophical frameworks such as hermeneutics and phenomenology.
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| 5. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Supporting Business Decision-making: One Professional at a Time
- 2014
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Ingår i: DSS 2.0 – Supporting Decision Making with New Technologies. - 9781614993988 - 9781614993995 ; 261, s. 471-482
-
Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper discusses the potential for personalized, user-owned decision-support systems. It can be readily seen that there are benefits from analysis of ‘Big Data’ that could not be attained through more traditional means, e.g. insurance and credit card fraud can be detected more readily when it is possible to analyze integrated data across multiple servers owned and controlled by separate organizations. However, high-level data analysis, though useful, cannot be trusted to provide all the answers to organizational ‘questions’. Individuals need to be able to inform themselves in complex decision situations and for this purpose there can be no substitute for ‘little data’ from wherever this is to be drawn. We explore a potential type of support that could overcome the barriers to professional creativity arising through lack of trust in decision-support systems owned and controlled from senior management. The Virtual Personal Assistant described uses natural language processing to interact with a professional user in the context of messy, situated problems, and in private. It has capability to learn from user-interactions and therefore to co-evolve contextually. A ‘little data’ system such as this can therefore help to improve relevance of user understandings in a relatively risk free environment.
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| 6. |
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| 7. |
- Imrie, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Virtual Personal Assistant
- 2013
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Ingår i: ItAIS 2013. Proceedings of 10th Conference of the Italian Chapter of AIS. - 9788866850076
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Abstract This report discusses ways in which new technology could be harnessed to create an intelligent Virtual Personal Assistant (VPA) with a focus on user-based information. It will look at examples of intelligent programs with natural language processing that are currently available, with different categories of support, and examine the potential usefulness of one specific piece of software as a VPA. This engages the ability to communicate socially through natural language processing, holding (and analysing) information within the context of the user. It is suggested that new technologies may soon make the idea of virtual personal assistants a reality. Experiments conducted on this system, combined with user testing, have provided evidence that a basic program with natural language processing algorithms in the form of a VPA, with basic natural language processing and the ability to function without the need for other type of human input (or programming) may already be viable.
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| 8. |
- Atanassova, Iva, et al.
(författare)
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Exogenous shocks, Covid 19 and firms' ability to learn, adapt and evolve
- 2022
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Ingår i: CEUR Workshop Proceedings. - 1613-0073. ; 3239, s. 184-207
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- In the context of the exponential growth of data, the Covid 19 pandemic and the need for quick adaptation faced by companies, as well as by society at large, the concept of organisational learning is flourishing and becoming an even more critical component of organisational survival and growth. This study applies a socio-technical lens to shed light on the organisational learning processes taking place in 40 various sizes and kinds of UK businesses during the critical, volatile, and unprecedented period - February-May 2021. Our study identifies organisational learning antecedents and key organisational context enabling and/or impeding learning processes and follow up evolution within companies. The findings suggest that even if employees have capability, not all are able to capture and transform intelligence into learning and apply it at a strategic level, reconfiguring purposefully future operational capabilities to respond to environmental changes, as they are not empowered and supported by the organisational management.
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| 9. |
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| 10. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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A Case for Holistic, Multicriteria Benefit Analysis
- 2013
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Ingår i: Organizational Change and Information Systems: Working and Living Together in New Ways. - 9783642372278 ; 2, s. 337-344
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Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper discusses the ways in which a critical systemic approach to systems analysis can provide support for a holistic, multicriteria benefits analysis. It highlights the importance of inquiry into the nature and boundaries of a perceived organizational problem space, taking into account unique perspectives of the living, engaged actors who desire beneficial change in their working systems. The role of the IS professional within a collaborative inquiry is explored, taking into account creation of relevant methodological frameworks (in contrast to uncritical, rigorous application of standardized methods). The paper discusses the ways in which collaborative teams can approach identification of desirable benefits.
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| 11. |
- Bednar, Peter
(författare)
-
A Contextual Integration of Individual and Organizational Learning Perspectives as Part of IS Analysis
- 2000
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Ingår i: Informing Science: the International Journal of An Emerging Transdiscipline. - 1521-4672. ; 3:3, s. 145-156
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The Strategic Systemic Thinking (SST) framework is presented as a stepping stone towards enabling the refocusing of organizational analysis in Information Systems (IS). The paper introduces some of the fundamental assumptions regarding the objectives of the SST framework; such as sense making as learning processes build upon communicative actions. The main concepts of the SST framework are presented, which are focused on developing a learning organization inclusive of having a constructive dialogue mechanism. The SST framework includes constructive dialogue as a means of gaining access to the existing but unreleased individual and group competencies for improved IS analysis.
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| 12. |
- Bednar, Peter
(författare)
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A method for contextual inquiry: some reflections
- 2007
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Ingår i: Systemist. - 0961-8309. ; 29:1, s. 32-43
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper is the third in a series which recounts experiences in a project conducted in a newly-created Department of the University of Portsmouth (see also Bednar et al, 2004 and Eglin et al, 2005). A variant of the Strategic Systemic Thinking (SST) Framework (Bednar, 2000) was used to support the 25 staff of the Department to explore possibilities for development in a range of areas of work relating to distance learning. A simplified version of SST was created and developed by the team in order to promote enhanced usability for the particular context of this study. The inception of the project, and progress made over a two year period, are described in the earlier work referred to above. The purpose of this third paper is to evaluate some aspects of the work, to draw some preliminary conclusions about use of the Framework for a purpose such as this, and to record some of the planned and unplanned consequences which have arisen through the project.
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| 13. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Addressing the human factor in information systems security
- 2009
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Ingår i: 4th Mediterranean Conference on Information Systems. - 9789609856676 ; , s. 900-912
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this paper the historically persistent mismatch between the information systems development and security paradigms is revisited. By considering the human activity systems as a point of reference rather than a variable in information systems security, we investigate the necessity for a change in the information systems security agenda, accepting that a viable system would be more user-centric by accommodating and balancing human processes rather then entertaining an expectation of a one sided change of behaviour of the end user. This is done by drawing upon well established information systems methodologies and research.
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| 14. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Beyond the Usual Suspects: Critically Informed Research.
- 2008
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. - 9781906638030 ; , s. 73-80
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- A number of researchers have attempted to define and encapsulate the essence of ‘critical research’. It has been suggested to encompass interpretation of social phenomena, and seeks for understandings that could support efforts to bring about beneficial change. It has been further suggested that such work is characterised by: concern with substantive social issues (e.g. power, values); foundation in a cohesive socio-theoretical core; and a distinctive role in informing the work of others. Within this definition, critical researchers tend to fall into a number of distinct traditions of thought/practice. For instance, some concern themselves with issues relating to emancipation of (other) people within society (e.g. those influenced by the work of Habermas). Some focus upon issues of self-emancipation (e.g. those deriving from Foucault’s discussion of external power relations). Others highlight issues relating to social stratification and discriminatory practices in society (e.g. those taking inspiration from work by Bourdieu). This paper introduces discussion of a further category of critical systemic thinking, exemplified by Gregory Bateson and Claudio Ciborra. Critically-informed research from a systemic perspective involves a desire to explore the unique and to question assumptions. Through engagement with reflection and exploration, perceptions of individual emergence form an important aspect of this strand.
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| 15. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Bias, Misinformation and the Paradox of Neutrality.
- 2008
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. ; 11, s. 85-106
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- What is normally described as bias? A possible definition comprises attempts to distort or mislead to achieve a certain perspective, i.e. subjective descriptions intended to mislead. If designers were able to exclude bias from informing systems, then this would maximize their effectiveness. This implicit conjecture appears to underpin much of the research in our field. However, in our efforts to support the evolution and design of informing systems, the way we think, communicate and conceptualize our efforts clearly influences our comprehension and consequently our agenda for design. Objectivity (an attempt to be neutral or transparent) is usually regarded as non-biased. However, claims for objectivity do not, by definition, include efforts to inquire into and reflect over subjective values. Attempts to externalize the mindset of the subject do not arise as part of the description. When claims to objectivity are made, this rarely includes any effort to make subjective bias transparent. Instead, objectivity claims may be regarded as a denial of bias. We suggest that bias can be introduced into overt attempts to admit subjectivity. For example, where people are asked to give subjective opinion according to an artificially enforced scale of truth-falsity (bi-valued logic), they may find themselves coerced into statements of opinion which do not truly reflect the views they might have wished to express. People do not naturally respond to their environment with opinions limited to restricted scales; rather, they tend to use multivalued logic. This paper examines the impact of bias within attempts to establish communicative practice in human activity systems (informing systems).
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| 16. |
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| 17. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Bridging the gap between theory and practice : Socio-technical toolbox
- 2016
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Ingår i: Lecture Notes in Information Systems and Organisation. - Cham : Springer International Publishing. - 2195-4968 .- 2195-4976. - 9783319237848 - 9783319237831 ; 11, s. 51-62
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Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper describes a teaching experience of information systems (IS) analysis and design unit. In this unit every student applies a socio-technical (ST) toolbox in a real life business. These projects give students experience of real world business practices, issues and processes and provide opportunities to create a stimulating learning environment. At the same time the projects help involved businesses to develop new insights and understandings of key features of their own work practices, in support of their business development.
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| 18. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Business Systems Analysis as Research
- 2011
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Ingår i: Proceedings of 10th European Conference onResearch Methodology for Business and Management Studies. - 9781908272027 ; , s. 51-59
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- A business analyst who commences an investigation into design requirements for a new work system probably does not ‘label’ her inquiry process as research. However, a research perspective is needed if a productive learning spiral is to be established in which ‘useful’ systems can be created. Systematic, collaborative inquiry adopting an complex, open systems perspective is required in order to establish bases for greater understanding of contextually dependent and individual conceptions of business situations. A professional analyst will recognize that she is attempting to facilitate and engage support for an organizational change process. Similarly, a researcher must recognize that her presence is not ‘neutral’ and take responsibility for the intervention that her actions constitute. This paper discusses the nature of business systems analysis and its relationship(s) to critically informed research processes. It examines research within complex open systems such as business organisations, taking into account the kinds of logic required when researching messy, uncertain problem spaces.
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| 19. |
- BEDNAR, PETER
(författare)
-
Complex methods of inquiry: structuring uncertainty
- 2016
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Doktorsavhandling (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Organizational problem spaces can be viewed as complex, uncertain and ambiguous. They can also be understood as open problem spaces. As such, any engagement with them, and any effort to intervene in order to pursue desirable change, cannot be assumed to be just a matter of ‘complicatedness’. The issue is not just a need to cope with dynamics of system. It is also the perceptual ‘boundedness’ of multitudes of assumptions about scope of whole and limitations of organization as system. Furthermore, explicit attention to complexities of feedback loops is an extremely important aspect of any systemic discussion. How can we help teams of competent professionals to engage purposefully with such uncertain and ambiguous problem domains? The author suggests that we can only address this effectively through pragmatic efforts to incorporate a multitude of boundary-setting assumptions, explored as part of active (self-) reflection and practical engagement. This must be undertaken without resorting to an overly simplistic application of convergent thinking in our efforts to support problem solving. Instead, we need to pursue divergent thinking and ‘complexification’ in our effort to support problem resolving. The main contribution of this thesis is to present a collection of principles that taken together, provide support for this engagement ntervention. A core feature of this result is the framework for Strategic Systemic Thinking, which includes examples of pragmatically useful methods and tools.
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| 20. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Conquering Complex and Changing Systems through Recognition of Individual Uniqueness
- 2007
-
Ingår i: Proceedings of the 6th European Conference on Research Methodology for Business and Management Studies. - 9781905305513 ; , s. 51-56
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- From the point of view of each individual’s sense-making, an organization is an emergent property of inter-individual sense-making processes and activities. The organization is a result of emergence from individual sense-making perspectives. A critically informed approach to research involves recognition / understanding of this emergence. Without the recognition of the uniqueness of each particular individual’s experience of organizational life this critical approach may be undermined. Within a logical empiricist tradition (LE), the focus of a researcher’s attention rests on increasing the precision and clarity with which a problem situation may be expressed. This can lead to an artificial separation of theory from praxis, of observation from observer and observed. ‘Knowing’ about organizational context may be deeply embedded and inaccessible to individuals concerned. Knowing is formed by on-going construction of meanings through synthesis of new data with past experience. A hermeneutic-dialectics (HD) perspective emphasises self-awareness of human individuals. It goes towards emancipation and transparency rather than clarity and precision. A researcher adopting an HD perspective will recognize that there are ambiguities inherent in socially-constructed world views. Critical Systemic Thinking assumes a critical position with regard to informed academic practices. However, a problem for critically-informed research is also a pedagogical one. The research audience needs not only to be engaged in a dialogue regarding a transformation of modern research practices, but also needs to be informed about which foundations these practices supposedly draw upon. So there is a two-fold challenge: the subject-matter of research, and unfamiliarity with critical perspectives by the audience for that research. It may be difficult to establish a dialogue with regard to critical of ways of thinking, if those ways are unknown to the audience.
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| 21. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Contextual Analysis – a Multiperspective Inquiry into Emergence of Complex Socio-cultural Systems
- 2009
-
Ingår i: Processes Of Emergence Of Systems And Systemic Properties: Towards a General Theory of Emergence, Proceedings - WORLS279346. - 9789812793461 - 9812793461 ; , s. 299-312
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper explores the concept of organizations as complex human activity systems, through the perspectives of alternative systemic models. The impact of alternative models on perception of individual and organizational emergence is highlighted. Using information systems development as an example of management activity, individual and collective sense-making and learning processes are discussed. Their roles in relation to information systems concepts are examined. The main locus of the paper is on individual emergence in the context of organizational systems. A case is made for the importance of attending to individual uniqueness and contextual dependency when carrying out organizational analyses, e.g. information systems analysis. One particular method for contextual inquiry, the framework for Strategic Systemic Thinking, is then introduced, The framework supports stakeholders to own and control their own analyses. This approach provides a vehicle through which multiple levels of contextual dependencies can be explored and allows for individual emergence to develop.
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| 22. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Contextual analysis as support for successful innovation in complex environments
- 2007
-
Ingår i: Organizational Dynamics of Technology-Based Innovation: Diversifying the Research Agenda. - 9780387728032 ; , s. 149-162
-
Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In order to survive and thrive, organizations need to adapt, re-invent themselves and therefore innovate. However many intentional efforts to bring about innovation do not succeed. In order to be successful, innovation requires the support of individuals throughout the environment in which it is emerging. However, in many cases such support is not forthcoming for a variety of reasons. In this paper, the authors discuss a number of barriers which may inhibit the success of innovative practice. They then discuss a role for Contextual Analysis as means to target individual engagement, and present an example of a method which could be used to conduct such analysis.
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| 23. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Contextual Dependencies in Information Systems Security
- 2013
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Ingår i: AIS SIGSEC and IFIP TC 11.1.
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper addresses the contextual dependencies related to the use of information systems security and criticizes the predominance of technical and formalized paradigm in the development and implementation of IS security policies and procedures. The underlying epistemology of our research lies in the interpretative paradigm. It explores the patterns of how the contextual use of information systems security is involved according to a business/organizational practice perspective. It elicits the detailed processes and practices that constitute the pragmatic perspective in developing information security activities.
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| 24. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Contextual Inquiry: A systemic support for student engagement through reflection
- 2007
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Ingår i: Interdisciplinary Journal of E-Learning and Learning Objects. - 1552-2210. ; 3, s. 45-55
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Much research has been published which attests to desire felt by educators to improve the quality of student reflection, and engagement with learning, through processes of assessment. This paper describes how research in Systems Analysis is being transformed and applied to educational practice. Staff considered that methods were needed to stimulate students to reflect and engage in higher orders of learning in order to help them to experience ‘success’ in their assessments. The paper describes the background to a Systems Analysis approach and its specific adaptation for support in student learning in the field of creative technologies.
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| 25. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Contextual Inquiry and Requirements Shaping
- 2009
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Ingår i: The Inter-Networked World: ISD Theory, Practice, and Education. - 9780387304038 ; 1, s. 225-236
-
Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- A primary purpose of traditional systems analysis is seen as ‘capture’ or ‘elicitation’ of user requirements, in order to produce specifications as a basis for information systems design. Such a view presupposes that user requirements are pre-existing and clear, and that the particular ‘users’ concerned know what they are, and can therefore articulate them. We would argue that none of these assumptions can be taken for granted. If a system is to be created which is useful to particular individuals, we suggest that they need to take ownership and control of the analysis themselves. By exploring their own experiences, aspirations and sense-making processes in the context of their problem space, they may enable richer and more comprehensive understandings to emerge. A creative process of requirements shaping may then be promoted. Our focus, therefore, moves away from problem description by an external analyst, towards contextual inquiry, which supports creative thinking and problem re-definition by those individuals most affected. We will discuss methods which may facilitate exploration of multiple, simultaneous and dynamic roles of the same autonomous individuals, separately and collectively. Such methods may enable emergence of reflective, shifting perspectives, leading to deepened understandings of problem experiences. This approach makes it possible for resolutions to be created that address experiences, rather than descriptions, of problems.
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| 26. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Contextual inquiry and socio-technical practice
- 2014
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Ingår i: Kybernetes. - 0368-492X. ; 43:9/10
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Purpose: During discussions at the ASC 2013 Conference, we were stimulated to consider acting,learning and understanding in the context of organizational change, and in particular the relationship between organizational actors and external analysts. This article therefore seeks to review from a cybernetic perspective how a socio-technical toolbox can help to facilitate organisational change, and to examine issues involved in use of such a toolbox by organizational actors supported by expert analysts. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is conceptual and adopts a critical stance, i.e. to provide support for emancipation of individuals through ownership and control of their own analyses. Findings: Drawing on work by e.g., Bateson, we consider organizations as dynamic and complex human activity systems, and how actors can be helped to develop a productive learning ‘spiral’ of acting and reflecting by means of a proposed sociotechnical toolbox. Acting and reflecting upon action can be seen to form a ‘double helix’ of learning, leading to richer understandings of contextual dependencies. Engaged actors need support to surface their contextually-dependent understandings, individual and collectively and engage in a ‘dance of change’. Practical implications: Change is endemic in organizational life. When engaging with change activity that attempts to address complexity (as opposed to complicatedness), contextual experts need to be the key decision-takers. This means a redistribution not only of responsibility and action but also decision-taking power. Originality/value: The paper suggests augmentation of traditional socio-technical methods to address dynamic complexity.
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| 27. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Contextual Inquiry as a Critical Perspective in Research
- 2010
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Ingår i: Proceedings of ECRM 2010. ; , s. 61-69
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Human systems create problem spaces that are ambiguous, uncertain and constantly changing. This requires researchers to find approaches to inquiry that can be used to explore inconsistent and ill-defined phenomena. Much analytical work is done without in-depth consideration of context. This means that important dimensions are lost – rigour in investigation is prioritised over relevance. Research must be able to engage with inquiry into contextual dependencies at multiple levels. We experience the world individually, creating our own unique understandings. Furthermore, our experiences of context change continually and different individuals’ experiences of the ‘same’ context vary widely. A relevant resolution in a situation requires attention to contextual dependencies, but what makes it relevant and from whose point of view? Thus, a mindset is needed that recognises uniqueness and accommodates for a creative process of discovery, which needs to be conceptualised. This paper discusses contextual inquiry as a critical perspective in research.
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| 28. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Crisis! What Crisis?
- 2008
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. ; , s. 1-8
-
Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- There is a crisis discussed in the discipline of Information Systems. Those who perceive such a crisis to exist are by no means agreed, as to its nature and origins. Our inquiry shows that there are a three distinct ‘crises’ being debated. The first of these relates to the substance and boundaries of the discipline itself and if it is even a discipline at all. Another ‘crisis’ relates to higher education and a fall in demand for IS courses from new students. Commentators perceive this to threaten the existence of IS departments in Universities, and to have potentially serious consequences for both research strategies and career paths of academics. Thirdly, there is perception of a crisis in the wider world, characterised by fewer vacancies in IS-relevant occupations whilst, at the same time, employers complain of a shortage of suitably skilled applicants for the vacancies available. This paper examines evidence for the three ‘crises’, real or imagined, suggested above, in the Information Systems field.
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| 29. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Crisis! What Crisis?
- 2010
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Ingår i: Information Systems: People, Organizations, Institutions and Technologies. - Heidelberg : Physica-Verlag HD. - 9783790821475 ; , s. 353-360
-
Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Abstract There is a crisis discussed in the discipline of Information Systems. Those who perceive such a crisis to exist are by no means agreed, as to its nature and origins. Our inquiry shows that there are a three distinct “crises” being debated. The first of these relates to the Substance and boundaries of the discipline itself and if it is even a discipline at all. Another “crisis” relates to higher education and a fall in demand for IS courses from new students. Commentators perceive this to threaten the existence of IS departments in Universities, and to have potentially serious consequences for both research strategies and career paths of academics. Thirdly, there is perception of a crisis in the wider world, characterised by fewer vacancies in IS-relevant occupations whilst, at the same time, employers complain of a shortage of suitably skilled applicants for the vacancies available. This paper examines evidence for the three “crises,” real or imagined, suggested above, in the Information Systems field.
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| 30. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Critical systemic thinking as a foundation for information systems research
- 2012
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Ingår i: Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society. - : Emerald. - 1758-8871 .- 1477-996X. ; 10:3, s. 144-155
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore a particular philosophical underpinning for Information Systems (IS) research – critical systemic thinking (CST). Drawing upon previous work, the authors highlight the principal features of CST within the tradition of critical research and attempt to relate it to trends in the Italian school of IS research in recent years, as exemplified by the work of Claudio Ciborra but also evident in work by, e.g. Resca, Jacucci and D’Atri. Design/methodology/approach – This is a conceptual paper which explores CST, characterised by a focus on individual uniqueness, and socially-constructed, individual worldviews as generators of human knowing. Findings – The paper draws on work by Heinz Klein in which he elaborated three constitutive stages in critical research: interpretive, genealogical and constructive. The authors introduce a fourth, reflective stage and discuss five categories of critical research, reflecting different perspectives on emancipation, culminating in emergent expressionism, associated with Ciborra and the Italian school more generally. Research limitations/implications – This paper discusses approaches to CST and how they might have practical implications in IS development. The distinction between approaches founded in logical empiricism and those founded in hermeneutic dialectics are considered and the development of critical and systems strands are discussed. Practical implications – The paper addresses CST as an approach to development of information systems. Such approaches enable users to explore their individually unique understandings and create a constructive dialogue with one another, which emancipates and empowers users to own and control their own development processes and hence build more productive and usable systems. Social implications – A focus on research which is oriented towards emancipation in the tradition of critical social theory. Originality/value – The paper draws on extensive theoretical research carried out by the authors over a period of more than ten years in CST and synthesises the practical implications.
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| 31. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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‘Critical systemic thinking as a philosophy for “design” practice.’
- 2008
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Ingår i: Program and Discussion Papers. ; , s. 67-72
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Some systems approaches tend to conceptualize social systems as collective entities, in which emergent properties of the whole can render individuals within a social system invisible. As critical systemic thinkers, however, we choose to see a social system as an emergent property of the interactions between unique individuals whose social relations are of interest. Thus, within the field of critical social research, we include work with a focus on sense-making and learning in the context of systems of human interaction. Such work tends to encourage challenging of taken-for-granted assumptions and ‘received wisdom’. It is oriented towards supporting individuals and groups to reflect in context, to learn and hence to bring about beneficial change for themselves. In this class of research, we include work influenced by, for example, Gregory Bateson. His taxonomy of orders of learning, and his exploration of human interaction have informed work of many other researchers. His insights have been influential in highlighting concepts such as ‘otherness’, ‘in-betweenness’ and ‘immanence’ as relevant aspects to explore in relation to human systems. Another author whose work has informed that of many other researchers is Claudio Ciborra. An on-going critique of rationality characterizes his contribution to investigation of human systems. Ciborra highlights differences between logical descriptions of social behavior that people make and their actual, contextualized experiences. This social behavior includes play as an emergent property of improvisation in problem solving practice and expressionism as communicative practice. This paper will discuss the contributions of critical systemic thinkers to the development and application of critical social research.
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| 32. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Cyber-Crime Investigations: Complex Collaborative Decision Making
- 2008
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. - 9780769533629 ; , s. 3-11
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper reports on the challenges computer forensic investigators face in relation to collaborative decision making, communication and coordination. The opportunities, operational environment and modus operandi of a cyber criminal are considered and used to develop the requirements in terms of both skill sets and procedural support a forensics investigator should have in order to respond to the respective threat vectors. As such, we show how a published framework for systemic thinking can be fit fir purpose for supporting the collaborative enquiry and decision making process.
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| 33. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Dealing with Complexity in Knowledge Sharing Processes’
- 2007
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. - 9781905305537 ; , s. 101-108
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- In a context of complex problem spaces, human individuals need support to carry out in-depth inquiry, generating many, diverse possibilities, without suffering from information overload. In earlier work, we have demonstrated the potential of a model of four-valued logic to provide support in a knowledge sharing environment by codifying, not knowledge, but categories of argument/assertion. In this paper, we extend the application of our model to a second order. In the first application, individually-created narratives are categorised according to four-valued logic: assertions of positive belief in alternatives, negative belief in alternatives, possibility of alternatives or ignorance of any alternative. A second order is illustrated through an example in which all assertions of positive or optimistic possible belief are considered by participants. The model is applied in order to identify clusters of narratives which appear to have characteristics in common, by creation of diversity networks. In this way, a more focused agenda for debate can be supported to emerge.
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| 34. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Design of socio-technical systems : What does the practice tell us?
- 2018
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Ingår i: Digital Technology and Organizational Change - Reshaping Technology, People, and Organizations Towards a Global Society. - Cham : Springer International Publishing. - 9783319620503 ; 23, s. 61-68
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this paper we report upon some results of an empirical study involving employees from 32 SMEs in the UK on how they approach socio-technical principles in the design of their work systems. We are particularly interested in what extent employees are engaged with decision making, change in work practices and job satisfaction. Our findings reveal that employees would prefer more responsibilities, more involvement in the decision making and in change of work practices. Additionally, it seems that recognition and appreciation by management are the most valuable job satisfaction criteria. Therefore, our findings further support the conclusion that socio-technical principles are not outdated. From a socio-technical lens, the debate on the productivity issues should not only consider buying more technology as a crucial part of the design of a work process but additional effort is required to connect it with employees’ capabilities.
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| 35. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Digital forensic investigations: a new frontier for Informing Systems
- 2010
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Ingår i: Information Systems: People, Organizations, Institutions and Technologies. - Heidelberg : Physica-Verlag HD. - 9783790821475 ; , s. 361-371
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Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Digital forensic investigators experience a need for support in their everyday struggle to overcome boundary problems associated with cyber crime inves-tigations. Traditional methods are socio-culturally and physically localised and dependent on strict and historically prescriptive political management. The new internet-worked cyber-world creates unprecedented difficulties for digital forensic investigations. This is directly linked with the inherently complex uncertainties and ambiguities related to a constant need for framing and re-framing of problem spaces under investigation. As such, in this paper we propose the recruitment of the discipline of Informing Systems in the context of digital discovery. Early findings of such an exercise indicate that informing systems approaches can assist the investigation process by offering means for structuring uncertainty. As it is accepted that uncertainty is an inherent element in a crime scene, not least in a cyber crime scene, we consider the contribution of Informing Systems vital for the effectiveness of digital forensic investigation practices.
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| 36. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Digital forensic investigations: a new frontier for Informing Systems
- 2008
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. ; , s. 1-11
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Digital forensic investigators experience a need for support in their everyday struggle to overcome boundary problems associated with cyber crime inves-tigations. Traditional methods are socio-culturally and physically localised and dependent on strict and historically prescriptive political management. The new internet-worked cyber-world creates unprecedented difficulties for digital forensic investigations. This is directly linked with the inherently complex uncertainties and ambiguities related to a constant need for framing and re-framing of problem spaces under investigation. As such, in this paper we propose the recruitment of the discipline of Informing Systems in the context of digital discovery. Early findings of such an exercise indicate that informing systems approaches can assist the investigation process by offering means for structuring uncertainty. As it is accepted that uncertainty is an inherent element in a crime scene, not least in a cyber crime scene, we consider the contribution of Informing Systems vital for the effectiveness of digital forensic investigation practices.
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| 37. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Diversity Networks in Digital Investigations
- 2009
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. - 9781841022307 ; , s. 63-71
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper is built upon recognizing the need that digital forensic investigators are required in many cases to investigate, understand and report on all kind of cyber-crime including novel security breaches which have not been performed in the past. When an investigator is faced with the challenge to explore a new threat, we argue that the inquiry dynamics do not differ from an organisational employee challenged to perform innovation. This is not just about challenging one’s own assumptions; not just challenging the assumptions of one’s colleagues but creating a dialogue among colleagues about the processes of questioning assumptions in order to uncover a richer appreciation of the uncertainties of the problem-space to be the subject of inquiry. This paper draws upon the approach of diversity networks which is used to support inquiry into complex problem spaces including the necessary requirement for innovation, and it is shown how this paradigm could be adopted by the forensic investigator to shed light on the uncertainty aspects of a cyber crime scene.
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| 38. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Educational applications of the SST framework
- 2009
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Ingår i: Systemist. - 0961-8309. ; 31:1, s. 1-18
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- This paper is the fourth in a series discussing experiences in applying the Strategic Systemic Thinking (SST) framework. The framework was originally proposed for the purpose of supporting contextual analysis into complex problem spaces as part of information systems analysis. Previous papers have dealt with an application supporting strategic development of work in an academic university department. In this paper, we turn our attention using the framework to support the educational process itself. Four separate applications are described relating to educational practice. The framework has been applied in an educational setting with varying degrees of success, and the authors attempt to draw some conclusions based on these experiences.
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| 39. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Facilitating IS capability – towards a new perspective on governance
- 2007
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. - 9781905305421 ; , s. 25-34
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- It has been suggested that those organizations which have greatest competitive success are those in which information systems strategy is seen as integral to overall business strategy. Thus, the CIO is seen as a full member of the management team, and not as someone presiding over a separate functional area which provides a service to the rest. There is a need therefore for businesses to avoid such fragmentation, and to develop information systems ‘capability’, empowering all members of the organization to harness these resources effectively. At the same time, many firms are concerned to become leaner and more efficient by outsourcing some activities seen to be non-core. There is a need for those involved in IS governance to make choices which strike a balance between efficiency and effectiveness, in order to develop IS ‘capability’. In this paper, the authors discuss a need to reconsider perspectives on management of IS, from a leadership approach to one of facilitation. People at all levels must be empowered and supported to make the best use of available technologies, and information, by developing their own IS ‘capability’. The concept of IS governance, therefore, needs to be seen as a concern for the whole organization and not just the province of the CIO. Technical professionals have sometimes been regarded as the experts, who will put suitable systems in place on behalf of users. The authors believe that greater benefits can be gained by going beyond consultation with users, and encouraging collaborative design, in which individuals can be supported to shape their own requirements, and to own and control development of their own IS capability. The paper will discuss methods which we believe may provide appropriate support for individuals to achieve this.
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| 40. |
- Bednar, Peter
(författare)
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Individual Emergence in Contextual Analysis
- 2007
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Ingår i: Systemica. - 0167-9961. ; 14:1-6, s. 23-38
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Located within the tradition of Hermeneutic Dialectics (HD) this paper offers an approach which can further an analysis of a fit between information and organizational systems. Drawn upon Information Systems Development projects a relationship between theory and practice is aided through a multi-disciplinary approach to sense making activity. Using a contemporary version of contextual analysis to understand a way in which individuals construct adapt and create meaning from their environment offers a route to improve a systems analysis process. This type of enquiry into contextual dependencies of knowledge creation can help direct a development of systems that have the intention to serve specific organizational actors and their needs. Combining methods outside of a traditional polar divide, sense making research undertaken within a systems thinking arena can enrich understanding by complementing qualitative and / or quantitative analysis with reflective depth. Drawing together interdisciplinary strands through a critical systems thinking approach offers new levels of professionalism for computer- and management-, practitioners or researchers in the 21st Century.
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| 41. |
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| 42. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Information Technology Projects: leaving the "magic" to the "wizards".
- 2009
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Ingår i: Information Systems Development: Towards a Service Provision Society.. - Boston, MA : Springer US. - 9780387848099 ; , s. 349-356
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Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this paper, we explore the significant challenges relating to investment in IT in business. Information technology does not in itself deliver business value. We highlight the complexities that are often ignored in management of IT projects. If the management system in an organization is ineffective, then installing information technologies does not constitute a ‘magic wand’ that will generate prosperity. It can only generate value if attention is paid to the design of the system for use at the same time that technological systems are developed. The authors explore how IT benefits require attention from management generally, and show that investment in IT projects cannot be left to ‘IT experts’ alone. We point out that undue reliance on rational planning is unsatisfactory, as it ignores contextual dependencies in organizational life. Criteria by which the success/failure of projects is to be judged must go beyond a focus on timescales, budgets and ‘requirement specifications’. We suggest that the criteria need to be expanded to embrace usefulness of resultant systems, as perceived by organizational staff as they attempt to use them in carrying out their work.
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| 43. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Innovation management through the use of diversity networks
- 2008
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Ingår i: International Journal of Knowledge and Learning. - 1741-1017. ; 4:4, s. 357-369
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- A methodology for innovation and analysis in a context of complex problem spaces is presented, introducing the idea of a diversity network. The methodology draws upon a framework which puts ‘complexification’ into systemic practice. Such an application helps individual participants to outline their narratives, create and agree upon categories, and use these to classify their narratives. Clusters of narratives, reflecting innovation through diversity networks of opinion and competences, are encouraged to emerge in analytical practice. This approach can be applied to promote creativity and sharing in a knowledge management context.
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| 44. |
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| 45. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Inquiry into Informing Systems: critical systemic thinking in practice
- 2009
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Ingår i: Foundations of Informing Science: 1999-2008. - 9781932886153 ; , s. 459-501
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Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Any perceived human activity is, by definition, also a complex informing system. Human activity systems must continually adapt to their dynamic environments in order to survive. There is therefore a role for deutero-lerning through human sense-making and multiple levels of reflection in bringing this about. In this chapter, the authors suggest a need for an approach based in philosophy as practice, when considering the complexities of informing systems. Our discussion draws upon a variety of reference disciplines that have contributed to developing an epistemology of informing systems discourse. These include systems science, systems thinking and cybernetics (which we explore through the work of Gregory Bateson and C. West Churchman); biological systems (through the work of Maturana and Varela); philosophy (explored through the work of Gerard Radnitzky and Hans-Erik Nissen, as well as Gregory Bateson); and organizational behaviour (explored through the work of Borje Langefors, Chris Argyris and Karl Weick). We conclude by presenting two examples of hermeneutically-informed, phenomenological approaches.
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| 46. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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IS and Cybersecurity Practice : avoiding self-sabotage
- 2023
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Ingår i: Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Socio-Technical Perspective in Information Systems Development (STPIS 2023). - 1613-0073. ; 3598, s. 138-145
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this paper, we explore cybersecurity from a sociotechnical work-system perspective and focus on the visibility and effectiveness of security practices as part of the everyday work practices of typical employees. The empirical inquiry involved 471 employees from 259 different organizations, drawn from both private and public sectors using semi-structured interviews and conducted from an interpretive stance. Employees interviewed were all expected to follow cybersecurity practices but were not involved in the development of such. The key findings reveal that actual work practices and routines of most employees were either ignored or insufficiently intertwined with security management efforts. Consequently, engagement and participation by professionals are needed to promote the design of work systems that are not only user-friendly but also genuinely supportive of meaningful use in context.
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| 47. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
-
Is Modernism vs. Postmodernism a Relevant Discussion?
- 2008
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Ingår i: [Host publication title missing]. - 9781906638030 ; , s. 83-88
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- As travellers, we are usually aware that a map is not the territory it represents. However, as researchers, inquiring into practice, are we always aware of the domain within which that practice is situated? Descriptions of practice sometimes suggest that this is not the case. For example, do engineers actually believe that the models they develop and use are reflections of some reality? It is likely that an engineer never actually follows his models when developing an artefact or process. Similarly, we can ask ourselves whether we believe that a chef actually cooks by following a recipe. Possibly, only someone who does not know how to cook would think so. These idealised are simply the basis for discussion/reflection and experimentation? It is sometimes the case, however, that descriptions of practice are produced based in a kind of rationality that suggests these misapprehensions are appropriate. In the context of research, can we say that postmodernism has any relevance? If, in the field of practice, only the uninitiated ever had illusions that the ‘grand theories’ of ‘modernism’ could be directly applicable, then informed research must recognize this also. To those with no illusions, such ‘grand theories’ were a basis for reflection and critique. Thus, to this extent we have always been ‘modern’ and still are. Rather than espousing a Postmodernist perspective, we might point to ‘Hypermodernism’ – a recognition that the ‘grand theories’ can only be used as metaphors, i.e. a basis for practical philosophy. By adopting such a stance, it is possible to avoid a false step of fighting ‘straw men’ and dismissing as worthless research which could be useful material for reflection and learning when juxtaposed with other perspectives on practice. Models and explanatory frameworks within which research has been conducted need not be rejected as ‘modernist’ if there is recognition of their useful role as metaphor. At the same time, we suggest a need for a critically-informed approach to research which sheds light upon taken-for-granted assumptions and naïve rationalities, illuminating metaphor and stimulating reflection.
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| 48. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Knowledge creation and sharing: a role for paraconsistent logic
- 2007
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Ingår i: Managing Strategic Intelligence: Techniques and Technologies. - 9781599042435 ; , s. 159-177
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Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Recent research and practice have led to the development of relatively complex methods for inquiry which can be applied by human analysts wishing to investigate an organizational problem-space. However, it has appeared until recently that use of these methods could not be supported by software tools, since the limitations of traditional mathematical algorithms constrained their development. In consequence, managers may have been deterred, through pressure of time, from utilising methods which could yield deeper and richer understandings of the internal and external contexts of strategic intelligence. In this chapter, the authors outline one example of a complex method for inquiry. We discuss foundations for development of software support, based on a paraconsistent approach (see Bednar, et al, 2005). This could, we believe, be used to develop a new generation of decision support system which could make complex methods for inquiry accessible to managers in situations where protracted investigations would be ruled out by pressure of time.
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| 49. |
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| 50. |
- Bednar, Peter, et al.
(författare)
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Learning Objects and their implications on Learning: a case of developing the foundation for a new Knowledge Infrastructure
- 2007
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Ingår i: Learning Objects: Applications, Implications & Future Directions. - 8392233786 ; , s. 157-185
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Bokkapitel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In an era of lifelong learning, empowerment of the learner becomes fundamental. Therefore ex-ploitation of the full potential of learning objects depends upon creation of an appropriate infra-structure to promote symmetrical control of inquiry. The learner needs to be empowered because learning is a discovery process and thus must be under his or her own control. In early stages of education it is often assumed that choice of material is to be decided by ex-perts. At the more advanced stages, however, any subject problem space becomes more complex, and thus any decision related to relevance of inquiry properly rests with the learner. However without access to relevant contextual material (in addition to content) the learner will not be in a position to make responsible judgments. Two problems are to be adduced. First, current attempts to contextualize content, such as those based on the use of metadata etc, have been shown to be insufficient. Secondly, current devel-opments in infrastructure assume that access and control of inquiry rest with the provider and fail to accommodate support of symmetrical dialogue. Many strategies for the use of Learning Objects assume that a learner wishes to be led through the material and precludes the possibility of an educational experience which promotes critical thinking (such as that inspired by Socratic Method). We would argue that an infrastructure is needed which is capable of supporting both types of learning practice. It could be argued that thinking cannot be taught and that the only thing we can hope to achieve in education is mentoring and guidance within a problem space. A number of substantial research projects have been conducted in recent years in partnership between a range of significant European industrial actors and academic institutions. We will draw upon the findings of these projects, in conjunction with contemporary research into individual requirements shaping, in or-der to suggest a model for developing an infrastructure. This model will allow the possibility for symmetrical control of inquiry between learner and provider of learning objects.
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