Dw. Straub et Rt. Watson, Research commentary: Transformational issues in researching IS and net-enabled organizations, INF SYST R, 12(4), 2001, pp. 337-345
The conduct of net-enabled business, known variously as electronic commerce
(EC) or e-Business, has changed the landscape and opportunities for IS res
earch by shifting the focus from internal to customer/partnering systems. T
he article examines the two primary dyadic net-enabled relationships in the
marketplace: B2C and B2B. It also considers issues that extend beyond thes
e two relationships. B2C practice and research are analyzed from: (1) consu
mer, (2) service, and (3) risk perspectives. Three central issues of B2B or
supply chain practice and research are next considered: (1) beyond simple
efficiencies, (2) innovations in B2B technology, and (3) information visibi
lity. Finally, four overarching research issues are examined: (1) strategy,
(2) organizational design, (3) metrics, and (4) managing IS.
Not all research on the net-enabled organization (NEO) is IS research, and
it is critical that IS journals maintain their distinctive focus. Within th
e bounds of the net-enabled revolution, though, the IS field has an opportu
nity to shape the phenomenon with timely, theory-based work that will disse
minate beyond the IS academic and practitioner communities.