Development of an activity theory-based framework for the analysis and design of socio-technical systems

Durst C, Wiser F, Luber S, Wickramasinghe N (2020)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2020

Journal

International Journal of Networking and Virtual Organisations Inderscience Publishers

Book Volume: 23

Pages Range: 261-293

Journal Issue: 3

DOI: 10.1504/IJNVO.2020.109322

Abstract

The design of socio-technical systems is a challenging task due to diverse stakeholders and complex processes that have to be mapped into software. Following a socio-technical approach for information system analysis and design results in more user-friendly systems accompanying various benefits for associated stakeholders. However, there is a lack of theories and methods which consider technical, social and organisational factors. Researchers recommended activity theory as a rich framework to study socio-technical systems. While the benefits trigger increased use of activity theory, there seems to be a shared heritage of disadvantages linked to its nature and hence its application. This article introduces a novel conceptual activity theory framework to resolve these problems and evaluates it within a case study in the context of innovation management. For the development of the framework a design science research methodology approach is followed.

Involved external institutions

Hochschule Ansbach DE Germany (DE) Technische Universität Braunschweig DE Germany (DE) Swinburne University of Technology AU Australia (AU)

How to cite

APA:

Durst, C., Wiser, F., Luber, S., & Wickramasinghe, N. (2020). Development of an activity theory-based framework for the analysis and design of socio-technical systems. International Journal of Networking and Virtual Organisations, 23(3), 261-293. https://doi.org/10.1504/IJNVO.2020.109322

MLA:

Durst, Carolin, et al. "Development of an activity theory-based framework for the analysis and design of socio-technical systems." International Journal of Networking and Virtual Organisations 23.3 (2020): 261-293.

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