Cross-sectional research: A critical perspective, use cases, and recommendations for IS research

Abstract

Cross-sectional data is pervasive in information systems (IS) research. This editorial reviews cross-sectional studies, summarizes their strengths and limitations, and derives use cases of when cross-sectional data is and is not useful in answering research questions. We raise concerns about assertions of temporal causality using data collected employing cross-sectional methods with no temporal order, which makes cause and effect difficult to establish. Based on our discussion of research using cross-sectional data and its limitations, we offer four recommendations for when and how to use such data: (1) improve credibility by reporting research in detail and transparently, (2) ensure appropriate sampling, (3) take configurational perspectives, and (4) integrate cross-sectional data into mixed- or multi-method designs. By doing so, we help IS researchers position and use cross-sectional studies appropriately within their methodological repertoire.