The use of activity theory and actor network theory as lenses to underpin information systems studies

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine how both activity theory (AT) and actor network theory (ANT) can be complementarily applied in information system (IS) studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The interpretivist approach was followed, within which the qualitative methods were used. Existing literature was gathered as data. The analysis was done by following the interpretive approach.

Findings

Based on the analysis and discussion, a guide for complementary use of both AT and ANT in IS studies was developed. The guide is divided into two parts, which helps to achieve the objectives of the study: complimentary use of AT and ANT in an IS study and order-of-use of both theories in a study, as depicted in the framework.

Originality/value

This study is original in that it has not previously been published in part or full. The results of the study is intended to be of value to both IS postgraduate students and researchers.

Citation

Nehemia-Maletzky, M., Iyamu, T. and Shaanika, I. (2018), "The use of activity theory and actor network theory as lenses to underpin information systems studies", Journal of Systems and Information Technology, Vol. 20 No. 2, pp. 191-206. https://doi.org/10.1108/JSIT-10-2017-0098