How we work
The focus of the ISRC is to develop better practice in the management of information systems and technology. Typically, a project addressing a contemporary issue or problem is framed and a consortium of member organisations established. Research objectives and deliverables are agreeded among this consortium and a research plan constructed. These organisations then become actively involved in the research process, engaging with both researchers and other consortia members. Knowledge is produced through a cycle of interaction, reflection and application. This close collaboration facilitates both the creation of relevant and practical knowledge as well as the transfer of knowledge into member organisations.
The Centre also conducts commissioned research. Such projects, defined by the client, have in the past included a European survey of Knowledge Management for Xerox Corporation and a study of the agile corporation for Microsoft. The Centre has also carried out research for the European Union and the UK's research funding agency EPSRC.
Implementation studies are also undertaken to help in the dissemination of knowledge and practices, developed during the research process, into the commissioning organisation. For example, as a result of the e-collaboration project which explored distributed working, the ISRC facilitated the Audit Commission in the implementation of knowledge networks. These implementation studies will typically have a research component, with lessons providing valuable insights for other members.