Disentangling the Problem Space: A Validated Problem Statement for Sustainability Support Systems

The literature on information systems (IS) has produced empirical evidence that IS can support behavior changes toward sustainability. Leveraging design science research (DSR) methodologies, this paper concentrates on the problem analysis around designing for sustainable behavior, especially by investigating the challenges and potential solutions to resource conservation of energy and water in residential environments. Collaborating with a real estate management firm, we employ the echeloned DSR (eDSR) approach in a field setting, focusing on the problem analysis echelon to refine the problem of encouraging sustainable behaviors among residents. We contribute to the DSR body of knowledge by demonstrating the utility of the eDSR methodology in navigating complex problem spaces, particularly those related to sustainability in IS. We provide a detailed account of our problem-analysis process and offer insights into the role of continuous problem refinement in DSR.