Process Tracing Methods in Decision Support Systems Research: Exploring the Black Box.

Author List: Todd, Peter; Benbasat, Izak;
MIS Quarterly, 1987, Volume 11, Issue 4, Page 493-512.
An overview is provided of the applicability to DSS research of process tracing methodologies in general, and verbal protocol analysis in particular. Rationale is developed for why process tracing methods are an important addition to the inventory of methodologies available to researchers, stressing the need to explore the "black box" of decision processes. A variety of process tracing methods are presented, along with their relative strengths and weaknesses. Verbal protocol analysis is discussed as a particularly promising method for use in DSS research. The nature of verbal protocols is outlined and methods for analysis are reviewed. The criticisms of this method and the controversy surrounding its use are discussed, and an assessment of the validity of these criticisms is provided. Finally, areas of DSS research in which protocols may prove valuable are identified and relevant studies are examined.
Keywords: data analysis; data collection; decision support systems; Protocol analysis; research methods
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#60 0.347 analysis techniques structured categories protocol used evolution support methods protocols verbal improve object-oriented difficulties analyses category benchmark comparison provided recognition
#86 0.160 methods information systems approach using method requirements used use developed effective develop determining research determine assessment useful series critical existing
#32 0.132 research studies issues researchers scientific methodological article conducting conduct advanced rigor researcher methodology practitioner issue relevance findings validation papers published
#240 0.108 systems information management development presented function article discussed model personnel general organization described presents finally computer-based role examined functional components
#113 0.099 support decision dss systems guidance process making environments decisional users features capabilities provide decision-making user paper findings systems.decision components computer-based
#104 0.065 action research engagement principles model literature actions focus provides developed process emerging establish field build guidance known project elements insights