Broadening Information Systems Evaluation Through Narratives

Abstract

The purpose of information systems post‑evaluation ought to be to improve the use of systems. The paper proposes the use of narratives as a tool in post‑evaluations. The potential in narratives is that they can convey meanings, interpretations, and knowledge about the system, which may potentially lead to action. The paper offer three main suggestions: 1) evaluations should form the basis for action; 2) narratives makes evaluation more relevant; and 3) post‑evaluations should be done with the aim of improving use. Narratives should be viewed as a complement to traditional evaluation methods and as a way of making evaluation more formative and thereby moving away from the more common summative perception of evaluation. The conclusion of the paper is that narratives can advance IS evaluation and provide a richer evaluation picture by conveying meanings not included in traditional evaluations.