Analyzing Key Decision-Points

Abstract

This study explores innovative approach to early requirements analysis for boundary-spanning organizational information systems. It is argued that software engineering methods, focus on reductionist problem-definitions, while participatory design methods hinge on the unrealistic expectation that users have the time and interest to engage in design. Neither approach analyzes the relationship between formal decision-support and the informal knowledge and interaction processes that coordinate tightly-coupled, distributed systems of work. The author focuses their analysis on key decision-points as these embody the coordination-points of distributed work-systems, combining informational and processual knowledge. The method is developed and validated by means of an action research study of the Trauma care processes of a hospital emergency department – an environment characterized by highly-regulated, formal reporting requirements, with rapid-response decision-making that relies on the coordination of distributed knowledge across a variety of actors and work-roles.