Choosing an Appropriate Literature Review Method for Design Science Research: An Analysis of Past Doctoral Theses

Design science research (DSR) generates knowledge that informs problem-solving and has emerged as a viable research paradigm in Information Systems doctoral research. Doctoral research students are, however, confused by the number of options available when selecting an appropriate literature review method for design science research. To inform the selection of an appropriate literature review method, we analyzed the literature review types from 35 design science theses and dissertations in Information Systems. Indications are that the most dominant literature review method was descriptive, and the primary purpose was theory building. To meet the objectives of design science research, we suggest using a hermeneutic literature review approach and argue in this paper why it is important to use a suitable literature review method for DSR in doctoral studies.