A Meta-Analysis of Survey-Based Research in MIS Field from 1992-2006

Survey research is among the most common methodologies employed in MIS research. However there is an increasing concern over the rigor of research method in MIS field. Based on a review and comparative analysis of the literature this paper provides a critical analysis of trends in the conduct of survey research in the MIS field. Some 651 survey-based studies reported in three leading MIS journals between 1992 and 2006 are reviewed. The finding indicate that there has been an over-reliance on the conduct of cross-sectional studies whereas more emphasis on the use of longitudinal studies would have been appropriate. In terms of unit of analysis, most of the articles reviewed had focused on the individual leading to some concern about potential mismatch between respondents and the unit of analysis.