A Distinctive Analysis of Case Study, Action Research and Design Science Research

Abstract

Objective - This paper aims at analyzing the difference between researchmethods that are typical in operations management (case study and actionresearch) with design science research.Design/methodology/approach - The paper adopts a theoretical-conceptualmethodological approach, based on an extensive literature review. Theliterature review focused on studies that discuss the use of Case Study,Action Research and Design Science/Design Science Research.Theoretical framework - This paper reveals the foundations of Case Studyand Action Research. Due to its recent use as a research method, DesignScience Research is presented in greater depth.Findings - Firstly, we present design science and design scienceresearch as paradigms and as research methods, respectively, in thefield of management. Secondly, we present the difference between NaturalSciences, Social Sciences and Design Science. Thirdly, we carry outcomparative analysis of research methods Case Study, Action Research andDesign Science Research. Finally, we offer a set of suggestions forfuture research regarding the use of research methods in management, ingeneral, and in operations management, in particular.Contributions - The main contributions of this paper focus on reflectingabout research methods used in the management field. An importantcontribution is expanding the repertoire of research methods forunderstanding and using Design Science Research. The use of this methodcan contribute to reduce the distance between rigor and relevance, whichhas been described by several authors.