Theory Development

In this chapter, we will begin by addressing the attitude and approach to theory development in software engineering. Then we will learn about theory development using socio-technical grounded theory (STGT), including how to select between the emergent and structure modes. This is followed by the common procedures of theory development, including theoretical sampling, advanced memoing, targeted literature review, and theoretical saturation, that appear in both the modes of theory development. Then we will learn about the emergent mode, including its unique procedures such as targeted data collection, targeted data analysis, and theoretical structuring and a practical example of applying the emergent mode. Next, we will learn about the structured mode, including its unique procedures such as structured data collection, structured data analysis, and theoretical integration and a practical example of applying the structured mode. Next, we will go over the options for reporting outcomes as traditional and other outputs, followed by recommendations for presenting outcomes including theory statements, theory diagrams, and examples of raw data. Then we will consider the nuances of theory development. Finally, the chapter ends with an Is Theory Development for Me? Quiz, designed to help researchers self-assess their readiness for theory development and work on identified areas of improvement to become capable theorists.