What Is Being Iterated? Reflections on Iteration in Information System Engineering Processes

Abstract

Iteration is a fundamental principle of information system engineering, yet the concept remains under-theorized in the literature. In this chapter we articulate a lens for studying iteration through four types of iterating artifacts: concepts, representations, instantiations, and methodologies, and we apply this lens to a variety of prescriptive approaches to system development. Our review of these approaches suggests that iteration across one artifact or set of artifacts may substitute for iterations across another. We conclude with a reflection on how it is not the presence of iteration that distinguishes between methodologies, as iteration can be assumed in all system development efforts. Rather, the attitude toward iteration that various methodologies imply, and the audience of iterations across specific artifacts that the various approaches prescribe do more to differentiate between methodologies.