Toward a framework for classifying and guiding mixed method research in information systems

The field of information systems (IS) has explored research questions in a near-unilateral focus in that most IS research, particularly research published in North American journals, uses a quantitative, positivist approach. To achieve a better understanding of the effect of IS in organizations, researchers should invoke mixed method research in which both quantitative and qualitative methods are used. Rather than simply calling for more mixed method research, we adapt a framework from the education evaluation literature for use within IS. This framework not only classifies existing literature and provides insight into possible mixed method designs, but also contains recommendations for implementing different types of mixed method research. We also analyze this framework in the context of three IS mixed method studies. Challenges to mixed method research and future plans for research are also discussed.