Mixed methods approach as requirements analysis of a method for process harmonization in design science research

Abstract

Process harmonization (PH) in the post-merger integration phase is essential for successful mergers & acquisitions (M&A). Especially in the service sector, the know-how is bundled in processes, thus PH is an essential success factor. In order to execute PH systematically under holistic consideration, a method for PH is desirable. The objective of the research project is the development of a corresponding artefact within the framework of the Design Science Research approach. To identify requirements for the artefact, the Mixed Methods (MiMe) research consisting of interviews with experts and questionnaire survey was used for the requirements analysis, whose results were already published in individual contributions. This article aims to evaluate critically the applied MiMe research and thus broaden its application in IS research. The result shows that the obtained meta-inferences hold a high validity and accordingly the requirements gained from MiMe research are an essential prerequisite for the development of an artifact for PH.