VALIDITY IN DESIGN SCIENCE

Area of Science:

• Information Science
• Computer Science
• Design Science Research Methodology

Background:

• Validity is crucial but poorly understood in design science, hindering the communication of knowledge claims about developed artifacts.
• Design science involves creating and evaluating artifacts like models, methods, and theories to solve problems, making validity assessment complex.
• Existing methods lack a consistent approach to establishing and demonstrating the validity of knowledge generated through design science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define validity within the context of design science research.
• To introduce a structured Design Science Validity Framework for assessing knowledge claims.
• To provide a process model for applying the framework in research projects.

Main Methods:

• Defining validity in design science.
• Developing a framework with criterion, causal, and context validity types and subtypes.
• Creating a process model for framework application.
• Applying the framework to existing research examples.

Main Results:

• The Design Science Validity Framework offers a systematic approach to articulating and validating knowledge claims.
• The framework integrates validity considerations throughout the design science project lifecycle.
• The framework's own validity is demonstrated through its application to existing research.

Conclusions:

• The proposed framework enhances the rigor and clarity of design science research.
• It provides a shared language and systematic process for establishing validity in design science.
• This contributes to advancing design science methodology and the reliable generation of knowledge.