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Research Commentary: Transformational Issues in Researching IS and Net-Enabled Organizations

CIS Dept., J. Mack Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-4015
Department of MIS, Terry College of Business, The University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602-6273
dstraub{at}gsu.edu
rwatson{at}terry.uga.edu

The conduct of net-enabled business, known variously as electronic commerce (EC) or e-Business, has changed the landscape and opportunities for IS research by shifting the focus from internal to customer/partnering systems. The article examines the two primary dyadic net-enabled relationships in the marketplace: B2C and B2B. It also considers issues that extend beyond these two relationships. B2C practice and research are analyzed from: (1) consumer, (2) service, and (3) risk perspectives. Three central issues of B2B or supply chain practice and research are next considered: (1) beyond simple efficiencies, (2) innovations in B2B technology, and (3) information visibility. Finally, four overarching research issues are examined: (1) strategy, (2) organizational design, (3) metrics, and (4) managing IS.

Not all research on the net-enabled organization (NEO) is IS research, and it is critical that IS journals maintain their distinctive focus. Within the bounds of the net-enabled revolution, though, the IS field has an opportunity to shape the phenomenon with timely, theory-based work that will disseminate beyond the IS academic and practitioner communities.

Key Words: Net-Enabled Organizations (NEOs); Digital Business; e-Commerce; Information Technology; e-Business Developments; Future IS Research Issues; Trends; Forecasts
History: This paper was received on September 15, 2000.

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