1ZM140: Summary Quiz 2
Book Chapter 5.1: Concept of Class of Problems
An artifact can be thought of as a meeting point (an interface) between an ‘inner’ environment, the substance
and organization of the artifact itself, and an ‘outer’ environment, the surroundings in which it operates.
Classes of Problems the organization of a set of problems, either practical or theoretical, that contain
useful artifacts for action in organizations. Can be an organization that guides the trajectory of
knowledge development in the Design Science context. The nature of the artifacts itself can induce the
formation of such classes. There is a need to define classes of problems for the proper performance of
research based on Design Science. No conceptual definition or suggestion for its construction. Could
be an alternative to solutions that are primarily occasional and specific.
Classes of Problems, in turn, allow that the artifacts and therefore their solutions are not only
occasional responses to certain problems in particular contexts. These classes allow for the knowledge
generated in a specific context, when generalized, to be classified into a particular Class of Problems,
which can later be accessed by other researchers or organizations that have similar problems, in
agreement with the statement that “Design-Science is not concerned with action itself, but with
knowledge to be used in designing solutions”. So, knowledge generated from Design Science Research
is generalizable and can be classified into a given class of cases understood as a Class of Problems.
Artifacts that generate satisfactory solutions for such problems are always unique in their context.
However, both the problems and satisfactory solutions can share common characteristics that enable
the organization of knowledge of a particular Class of Problems, thus enabling the generalization and
advancement of knowledge in the area. Definition of the concept of class of problems offers:
- Possibility for the treatment of theoretical problems, because a problem can also correspond
to ways of testing a theory in organizational practice.
- Possibility of formalizing artifacts present in the practice of a given organization that must be
evaluated in other environments.
- The use of traditional research methods (Case Study, Action Research, Modeling, Survey) to
formalize existing artifacts.
The definition of Classes of Problems should be established to support research. This support can occur
from the conception of the research until the generalization of its results, aimed toward implementing
the solution not only to a specific problem but also to a certain Class of Problems. With an identified
(theoretical/practical) problem, become aware of its impacts for an organization. Next to impacts,
identify the objectives/goals needed to consider the problem satisfactorily resolved. This procedure
consists of “awareness” and consideration of the problem. A systematic literature review establishes
the set of known empirical solutions, as well as the theories that can support better understanding of
the problem. Also aims to identify the artifacts that seek to find solutions for the problem in question.
Once identified, set up and structure the Class of Problems to which the artifacts belong.
Book Chapter 5.1: Concept of Class of Problems
An artifact can be thought of as a meeting point (an interface) between an ‘inner’ environment, the substance
and organization of the artifact itself, and an ‘outer’ environment, the surroundings in which it operates.
Classes of Problems the organization of a set of problems, either practical or theoretical, that contain
useful artifacts for action in organizations. Can be an organization that guides the trajectory of
knowledge development in the Design Science context. The nature of the artifacts itself can induce the
formation of such classes. There is a need to define classes of problems for the proper performance of
research based on Design Science. No conceptual definition or suggestion for its construction. Could
be an alternative to solutions that are primarily occasional and specific.
Classes of Problems, in turn, allow that the artifacts and therefore their solutions are not only
occasional responses to certain problems in particular contexts. These classes allow for the knowledge
generated in a specific context, when generalized, to be classified into a particular Class of Problems,
which can later be accessed by other researchers or organizations that have similar problems, in
agreement with the statement that “Design-Science is not concerned with action itself, but with
knowledge to be used in designing solutions”. So, knowledge generated from Design Science Research
is generalizable and can be classified into a given class of cases understood as a Class of Problems.
Artifacts that generate satisfactory solutions for such problems are always unique in their context.
However, both the problems and satisfactory solutions can share common characteristics that enable
the organization of knowledge of a particular Class of Problems, thus enabling the generalization and
advancement of knowledge in the area. Definition of the concept of class of problems offers:
- Possibility for the treatment of theoretical problems, because a problem can also correspond
to ways of testing a theory in organizational practice.
- Possibility of formalizing artifacts present in the practice of a given organization that must be
evaluated in other environments.
- The use of traditional research methods (Case Study, Action Research, Modeling, Survey) to
formalize existing artifacts.
The definition of Classes of Problems should be established to support research. This support can occur
from the conception of the research until the generalization of its results, aimed toward implementing
the solution not only to a specific problem but also to a certain Class of Problems. With an identified
(theoretical/practical) problem, become aware of its impacts for an organization. Next to impacts,
identify the objectives/goals needed to consider the problem satisfactorily resolved. This procedure
consists of “awareness” and consideration of the problem. A systematic literature review establishes
the set of known empirical solutions, as well as the theories that can support better understanding of
the problem. Also aims to identify the artifacts that seek to find solutions for the problem in question.
Once identified, set up and structure the Class of Problems to which the artifacts belong.
