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Simulation-Based Research in Information Systems

Author

Listed:
  • Jannis Beese

    (University of St. Gallen)

  • M. Kazem Haki

    (University of St. Gallen)

  • Stephan Aier

    (University of St. Gallen)

  • Robert Winter

    (University of St. Gallen)

Abstract

Simulations provide a useful methodological approach for studying the behavior of complex socio-technical information systems (IS), in which humans and IT artifacts interact to process information. However, the use of simulations is relatively new in IS research and the current presence and impact of simulation-based studies is still limited. Furthermore, simulation-based research is quite different from other approaches, making it difficult to position and evaluate it adequately. Therefore, this paper first analyses the epistemic particularities of simulation-based IS research. Based on this analysis, a structured literature review of the status quo of simulation-based IS research was conducted, to understand how IS scholars currently employ simulation. A comparison of the epistemic particularities of simulation-based research with its status quo in IS literature allows to critically examine epistemic inferences in the respective research process. The results provide guidance for prospective simulation-based IS research through discussing the theory-based derivation of simulation models, as well as different simulation techniques, validation techniques, and simulation uses.

Suggested Citation

  • Jannis Beese & M. Kazem Haki & Stephan Aier & Robert Winter, 2019. "Simulation-Based Research in Information Systems," Business & Information Systems Engineering: The International Journal of WIRTSCHAFTSINFORMATIK, Springer;Gesellschaft für Informatik e.V. (GI), vol. 61(4), pages 503-521, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:binfse:v:61:y:2019:i:4:d:10.1007_s12599-018-0529-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s12599-018-0529-1
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    2. Hussain, Jafar & Lee, Chien-Chiang & Hu, Danting, 2023. "Maximizing load capacity factor through a carbon-neutral environment via a simulation of carbon peak," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 79(C), pages 746-764.
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    6. Hussain, Jafar & Lee, Chien-Chiang & Chen, Yongxiu, 2022. "Optimal green technology investment and emission reduction in emissions generating companies under the support of green bond and subsidy," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 183(C).

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