Notes on ateleological information systems development

Abstract

Provides a critique of teleological information systems development methodologies. Argues that these methodologies lead to “dead” systems that make very little sense to their users. Presents the work of the architect Christopher Alexander as an example from another discipline of ateleological development. Using principles gleaned from his work, presents some ideas of how information systems development may become more ateleological. Narrative, metaphor and myth seem to provide some indicators of how such ateleological development may be achieved. Acknowledges that there is no simple answer to the issues involved, except for the conviction that more precision or automation in teleological development methodologies would not do much to solve the enormous problems occurring in practice today.

Citation

Introna, L.D. (1996), "Notes on ateleological information systems development", Information Technology & People, Vol. 9 No. 4, pp. 20-39. https://doi.org/10.1108/09593849610153412