Is North American IS research different from European IS research?

Abstract

Diversity, whether in terms of research methodologies or reference disciplines, enriches and benefits a field of research. If, on the other hand, this diversity inhibits the sharing of research and knowledge between communities with different intellectual heritages, loss of synergy and research opportunities for both communities may result. This study identifies similarities and differences between North American and European research in terms of theoretical bases and research methodologies by analyzing doctoral dissertation research. Results show that European MIS research is predominantly qualitative and non-empirical conceptual whereas North American MIS research is predominantly quantitative and empirical. Furthermore, research in Europe is influenced considerably by computer science and artificial intelligence whereas research in North America has more behavioral and managerial roots. A comparison across a five-year period shows that this gap is narrowing.