The Information Systems Profession: Myth or Reality?

30 Pages Posted: 31 Oct 2008

See all articles by Wanda J. Orlikowski

Wanda J. Orlikowski

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Sloan School of Management

Jack J. Baroudi

University of Delaware - Accounting & MIS

Date Written: April 1988

Abstract

Much of the prior research into information systems (IS) workers hasassumed that they are professionals. In this paper we examine thecharacteristics of IS workers, IS work and the IS workplace, and suggest thatthis perspective is mistaken. Drawing on the sociological theory of professionsas a reference discipline we contend that IS professionalism is aninappropriate categorization, and that such a portrayal limits ourunderstanding of IS workers and their work.We argue in this paper that a more faithful and potentially usefulcharacterization is to view IS workers as members of an occupational group.Within this perspective, an understanding of the occupational culture, contextand history of IS workers is essential to an understanding of the ISoccupation. We examine and challenge some common myths regarding ISwork, technology and the IS workplace. We conclude by making somerecommendations for future research are provided, which should enhance ourunderstanding of IS workers as members of an occupation.

Suggested Citation

Orlikowski, Wanda J. and Baroudi, Jack J., The Information Systems Profession: Myth or Reality? (April 1988). NYU Working Paper No. IS-88-32, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1289714

Wanda J. Orlikowski (Contact Author)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Sloan School of Management ( email )

E53-329
Cambridge, MA 02142
United States
617-253-0443 (Phone)
617-258-7579 (Fax)

Jack J. Baroudi

University of Delaware - Accounting & MIS ( email )

Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics
Newark, DE 19716
United States

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