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Table 1 A taxonomy of theory types in information systems research [16, p. 620]

From: Data science: developing theoretical contributions in information systems via text analytics

Theory type

Distinguishing attributes

I. Analysis

Says what is

The theory does not extend beyond analysis and description. No causal relationships among phenomena are specified and no predictions are made

II. Explanation

Says what is, how, why, when and where

The theory provides explanations but does not aim to predict with any precision. There are no testable propositions

III. Prediction

Says what is and what will be

The theory provides predictions and has testable propositions but does not have well-developed justificatory causal explanations

IV. Explanation and prediction (EP)

Says what is, how, why, when, where and what will be

Provides predictions and has both testable propositions and causal explanations

V. Design and action

Says how to do something

The theory gives explicit prescriptions (e.g. methods, techniques, principles of form and function) for constructing an artifact