The DSR-PRISMA protocol: Embedding systematic knowledge mapping into design science research for applied technology...

Area of Science:

• Applied technology research
• Information systems
• Computer science

Background:

• Design Science Research (DSR) often lacks traceable literature reviews and abstracted design knowledge, hindering reproducibility.
• Current DSR practices struggle to connect evidence to requirements and artifacts, and evaluations to claims.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the DSR-PRISMA Protocol, embedding PRISMA 2020 within the DSR rigor cycle.
• To enhance the traceability and reproducibility of Design Science Research studies.

Main Methods:

• The protocol comprises seven phases: problem framing, systematic knowledge mapping, requirement derivation, artifact design, demonstration, evaluation, and knowledge abstraction.
• It utilizes six worksheet instruments (T1-T6) and three traceability rules for documented evidence-to-knowledge chains.
• A worked example in AI solution selection and two mini-scenarios demonstrate the protocol's application.

Main Results:

• The DSR-PRISMA Protocol establishes a documented chain from evidence to design knowledge, improving auditability.
• A finding-gap-requirement table bridges the gap between review findings and traceable design requirements.
• Worksheet templates and a reporting checklist facilitate auditing of DSR phases for authors and reviewers.

Conclusions:

• The DSR-PRISMA Protocol offers a rigorous framework for DSR, significantly improving study reproducibility.
• It provides essential tools for authors and reviewers to ensure transparency and verifiability in applied technology research.
• The protocol addresses critical gaps in current DSR methodologies, particularly in linking evidence to actionable design requirements.