Conceptualizing Information Systems as Biological Ecosystems - A ”New” Vocabulary for Speaking of Information Systems

Abstract

Biological ecosystems and related concepts are well known and have been used for a long time, also outside of the ecology context. In this conceptual paper, we explore the use of biological ecosystem concepts as a new lens to understand and analyze information systems. We propose that applying a frame of reference from a different discipline enriches information systems analysis in several ways, firstly through broadening the perspective of information systems, secondly by offering connections to phenomena and areas that were previously outside of the scope of the information system, and lastly through offering a new viewpoint on actors, roles and functions within an information system. Further research is needed to deepen our understanding of the information system ecosystem and apply this approach to other business activities.