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Punctuated Equilibrium Theory in IS Research

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Information Systems Theory

Part of the book series: Integrated Series in Information Systems ((ISIS,volume 28))

Abstract

Punctuated Equilibrium is a theory originating in paleobiology which has been adopted by management researchers to explain organizational change. In this theory, episodes of radical change are preceded and followed by longer periods of relative stability. Comprised of equilibrium periods, revolutionary periods, and punctuations, Punctuated Equilibrium can be contrasted with other perspectives on organizational change including persistent gradualism, tectonic shift, and turbulent adaptation. The use of the theory in IS research is identified in areas as diverse as virtual teams, IS implementation, organizational change, and strategic alignment. Finally, suggestions regarding how researchers may operationalize Punctuated Equilibrium are made focusing on key components of the definition of punctuations.

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Abbreviations

IS:

Information systems

NSO:

National Sports Organization

PE:

Punctuated equilibrium

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Business Administration, Royal Military College of Canada, 17000, Stn Forces, Kingston, ON, Canada

    James S. Denford

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  1. Christopher T. Street
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  2. James S. Denford
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Correspondence to James S. Denford .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. , School of Business and Economics, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, United Kingdom

    Yogesh K. Dwivedi

  2. IMD, Ch. de Bellerive 23, Lausanne, 1001, Switzerland

    Michael R. Wade

  3. Principia College, Maybeck Place 1, Elsah, 62028, Illinois, USA

    Scott L. Schneberger

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Street, C.T., Denford, J.S. (2012). Punctuated Equilibrium Theory in IS Research. In: Dwivedi, Y., Wade, M., Schneberger, S. (eds) Information Systems Theory. Integrated Series in Information Systems, vol 28. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-6108-2_17

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