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Managing In-Company IT Standardization: A Design Theory

Author

Listed:
  • Frederik Ahlemann

    (University of Duisburg-Essen)

  • Sven Dittes

    (FernUniversität in Hagen)

  • Tim Fillbrunn

    (University of Duisburg-Essen)

  • Kevin Rehring

    (University of Duisburg-Essen)

  • Stefan Reining

    (University of Duisburg-Essen)

  • Nils Urbach

    (University of Bayreuth)

Abstract

Today’s companies rely heavily on in-company information technology standards (ICITS) to reduce costs, ensure flexibility, and facilitate the planning, implementation, and operation of IT systems. Steering and managing ICITS has proven to be challenging, revealing the need for efficient governance mechanisms. But even though prior research demonstrates the challenges of ICITS, viable advice on how to implement ICITS is scarce. In this paper, we develop an organizational design theory for the management of ICITS based on the framework of organizational control theory. We conducted a critical case study to identify basic goals, constitutive elements, and fundamental mechanisms of a working ICITS management. The resulting design goals and principles were then evaluated and further refined in the light of additional expert interviews. With our work, we wish to extend the body of theoretical knowledge on the management of ICITS and help practitioners master the various challenges occurring in this domain.

Suggested Citation

  • Frederik Ahlemann & Sven Dittes & Tim Fillbrunn & Kevin Rehring & Stefan Reining & Nils Urbach, 2023. "Managing In-Company IT Standardization: A Design Theory," Information Systems Frontiers, Springer, vol. 25(3), pages 1161-1178, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:infosf:v:25:y:2023:i:3:d:10.1007_s10796-022-10277-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s10796-022-10277-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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