A process model cognitive biasing effects in information systems development and usage

There are many opportunities for failure when designing information systems. Most of the IS research investigating this area has concentrated on problems related to organizational environment, informational characteristics, or physical software design. Little attention has been given to the subconscious cognitive biases which can impact the manner in which information systems are developed and utilized. While it is recognized that elimination of these biases is neither feasible nor altogether desirable, it is further acknowledged that ignoring them can lead to an exacerbation of their undesirable effects. This paper provides a general framework to identify where system designer and decision maker biases are likely to occur, and suggests some moderating measures which might be taken to alleviate some of the potentially harmful effects of these biases.