The Components of Design Science Research for IT-based Products: A Systematic Review with Meta-Synthesis Approach

Design Science Research (DSR) has become one of the key methodologies in information technology research due to its ability to bridge practical and theoretical gaps. Given the increasing importance of developing IT-based products, especially with the emergence of AI-driven products in recent years, this study aims to identify the key components of using DSR in the design of IT artifacts. The primary objective of this research is to provide comprehensive components for the stages of designing IT-based products using DSR.This research is applied in terms of its purpose and employs a meta-synthesis approach for data collection. By searching reputable databases such as Web of Science and Scopus, 24 articles published between 2019 and 2024 were identified and analyzed as credible sources.The review of selected articles led to the identification of four main components: 1) Design Science Research Methods including methods such as the Hevner Cycle Model, Process Model, and Action Research Methods used in the development and evaluation of products. 2) Artifacts: including models, software, and design theories produced as research outputs. 3) Evaluation Methods including quantitative and qualitative methods such as usability tests and interviews used to assess the effectiveness of artifacts. 4) Tools: including data analysis software and modeling tools employed in the research process. DSR, due to its comprehensiveness and flexibility, is an effective tool for designing IT artifacts. This study provides an integrated framework for selecting and using appropriate methods and tools, helping researchers and professionals to improve the quality and efficiency of design processes and promote innovation in the development of IT products. Furthermore, this study highlights the need for more attention to the development of innovative theories and tools for evaluating IT artifacts.