An Information System Quality Framework Based on Information System Architectures

Abstract

Recent approaches view the Quality of Information Systems (IS) as the result of an IS development process and the quality$\$n of IS products. As quality is regarded as a multidimensional concept and its meaning depends on the context and the perspectives,$\$n many different IS quality frameworks and models are proposed. Typically, these frameworks include a set of characteristics,$\$n so-called quality factors, contributing to the quality of IS. Some approaches are based on the IS delivery process for the$\$n selection of quality factors; while some other approaches do not clearly explain the rationale for their selection. Moreover,$\$n often relations or impacts among selected quality factors are not taken into account. Quality aspects of information are frequently$\$n considered isolated from IS quality. The impact of IS quality on information quality seems to be neglected in most approaches.$\$n A systematic analysis of objective quality factors impacting on the overall quality of IS is necessary. This would provide$\$n a systematic view on IS quality as well as the rationale for selected quality factors. By identifying the root causes of defects,$\$n it would help to improve IS quality. Our research aims to propose such a quality framework based on Information System Architecture,$\$n as it allows understanding the elements and relations of IS. Focusing on IS architecture, we can identify the rationale of$\$n each quality factor that impacts on IS quality. Quality factors are identified for various abstraction levels of IS architecture.$\$n Besides, we also present impacts among different quality factors that help to analyze the root causes of IS defects.