Abstract
This paper offers guidance to conducting a rigorous literature review. We present this in the form of a five-stage process in which we use Grounded Theory as a method. We first probe the guidelines explicated by Webster and Watson, and then we show the added value of Grounded Theory for rigorously analyzing a carefully chosen set of studies; it assures solidly legitimized, in-depth analyses of empirical facts and related insights. This includes, the emergence of new themes, issues and opportunities; interrelationships and dependencies in or beyond a particular area; as well as inconsistencies. If carried out meticulously, reviewing a well-carved out piece of literature by following this guide is likely to lead to more integrated and fruitful theory emergence, something that would enrich many fields in the social sciences.
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Wolfswinkel, J., Furtmueller, E. & Wilderom, C. Using grounded theory as a method for rigorously reviewing literature. Eur J Inf Syst 22, 45–55 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1057/ejis.2011.51
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/ejis.2011.51