Application of Dual-process Theory to Information Systems: Current and Future Research Directions

This monograph presents a research agenda for the application of dualprocess theories to Information Systems (IS) research. It begins by clarifying exactly what a dual-process approach to attitude formation is, explaining how and why it can provide insights that other theoretical approaches cannot. Similarities and differences between the two dominant dual-process theories — the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) and the Heuristic Systematic Model (HSM) are discussed. These concepts are illustrated in a review of 26 published dual-process-based IS studies. This body of research is categorized according to a logical schema based on the locus of attitude formation. We then distill from these studies those heuristic cues and moderating factors that are most relevant to understanding IS phenomena. Finally, we identify the following three IS phenomena as offering great potential for further applications of the dual-process approach: First, information filtering under information surplus; second, how credibility assessment interacts with system design features; and third, mediated knowledge work in situ. We hope that by so doing, we can prevent future fragmentation of this widely varied body of research, and avoid premature closure around only a subset of potential areas for dual-process-based IS research.