On the quest for multi-methods in comparative case study research: casting a new light on IS Success

What is it about?

This paper is about studying the causal mechanisms and temporal processes underpinning monitoring systems success. It deploys multiple methods to address this issue. Specifically, process-tracing techniques are used to trace temporal processes unfolding through time while configurational theories are deployed to study causal mechanisms as configurations of causal conditions individually necessary and jointly sufficient for the outcome of interest.

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Why is it important?

This paper has theoretical, methodological and practical implications. Theoretically, this paper demonstrates that causal conditions work together rather than separately because they are parts of more complex systems that produce holistic effects not inherent in their individual parts. Methodologically, this paper responds to the call for new methods for tracing the processes and sequential links that underpin IS phenomena of interest. There are also implications for practitioners in relation to issues of asymmetry. For managers and policy makers alike the insight that configurations leading to monitoring systems success are not simply the reverse of the configurations for failure may have great value.

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