Integrating the AI Artifact in the IS Artifact: A Conceptual Framework and Research Agenda

Abstract

The AI artifact has become relevant in theory and practice. Empirical studies and conceptual frameworks explore the role of artificial intelligence, its impact, and application. However, the rapid development of new technologies leaves little time for theory to be developed at the rate of practical advances in the field of AI. This paper builds on previous work that contextualizes the IS artifact in general systems theory and updates the conceptual framework of the IS artifact for the context of AI. To achieve this, a narrative literature review of 30 papers has been conducted. The resulting first conceptualization of a potential framework indicates that the AI artifact adds complexity to the model by bridging existing categorizations. Agency is attributed to the AI artifact, requiring a new conceptualization and an additional environmental layer that requires systemic interconnectedness. The analysis also shows areas for further research