5 THE USE OF RESEARCH-BASED INFORMATION SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT METHODS Abstract Karin Hedstrom Emma Eliason ESA Orebro University SE-701 820rebro Sweden This paper discusses how research-based knowledge in the form of an information systems development method (ISDM) is used in practice. The paper outlines a theoretical model for analyzng the uses of these methods as well as research results in general. The data are mainly based on research on a consultant's use of a specific ISDM The use of ISDMs is discussed in the terms of a number of functions, and the usefulness of these functions is illustrated by empirical data. 1. INTRODUCTION There is a need for more knowledge on how practitioners use, adapt, and benefit from information systems development methods (ISDMs). The con- struction of methods is an important issue in the information systems (IS) field, and a considerable amount of research within IS still focuses on the development of new methods that are meant to guide and support practitioners working with the development of organizations and information systems. Even if research within the IS field is closely related to practice, there is still a lack of under- standing of how ISD methods are used in practice (e.g., Wynekoop and Russo 1995, 1997). We, as researchers, sometimes assume that IS development methods are considered useful and that they are used the way we had antici- pated. The methods we develop are often based on the rationality of the method N. L. Russo et al. (eds.), Realigning Research and Practice in Information Systems Development © Springer Science+Business Media New York 2001