I Methodologies and Metamodels for Information System Development and Their Evaluation.- 1. Framework for Information Activities.- 1.1. Motivation.- 1.2. Foundations of the Framework.- 1.2.1. Information System and Its Environment.- 1.2.2. Principles of Level Construction.- 1.3. IST, the Fundamental Conceptual Component of Information Systems.- 1.4. Levels of Information Activity.- 1.4.1. Hierarchical Structure.- 1.4.2. IS Use Level.- 1.4.3. ISD Level.- 1.4.4. ISD Model Construction Level.- 1.4.5. Theory Development Level.- 1.4.6. Interpretations of the Framework.- 1.5. Evaluation.- 1.5.1. Framework for Research.- 1.5.2. Frame of Reference for Tools.- 1.6. Conclusions.- 2. Analysis of Three IS and ISD Reference Frameworks.- 2.1. Related Works.- 2.2. Definitions and Concepts.- 2.3. A Short Description of Three Reference Frameworks.- 2.3.1. Framework for Understanding.- 2.3.2. HECTOR Framework of Reference.- 2.3.3. FRISCO Framework.- 2.4. Scheme for Evaluating Metamethodologies.- 2.4.1. Internal Validity of Frameworks.- 2.4.2. External Validity of Frameworks.- 2.4.3. Coverage of Frameworks.- 2.5. Comparison Results.- 2.5.1. Internal Validity of Frameworks.- 2.5.2. External Validity of Frameworks.- 2.6. Conclusions.- II Contingency Factors and Uncertainty in Decision Making in Information System Development.- 3. Favorable Atmosphere for Effective Information Technology Decisions.- 3.1. Basic Assumptions.- 3.2. MISD Contingency Factors.- 3.3. Main Information Technology Decisions.- 3.4. Priority Setting and Other Strategic Decisions.- 3.5. Feasibility Study, Contingency Analysis, and Methodology Selection.- 3.6. MIS Implementation Decisions.- 3.7. Introduction of the New MIS and Maintenance Decisions.- 3.8. Conclusions.- III Development of Holistic ISD Methodologies and Selection of ISD Methods and Tools.- 4. Overview of the OSSAD Methodology.- 4.1. Principles, Functions, and Approach.- 4.2. Main Principles.- 4.3. Approach.- 4.3.1. Set Contract.- 4.3.2. Analyze Situation.- 4.3.3. Design System.- 4.3.4. Implement Changes.- 4.3.5. Monitor System Performance.- 4.4. Management Issues.- 4.4.1. Organization.- 4.4.2. Procedures for Getting Under Way.- 4.5. Modeling.- 4.6. Language.- 4.6.1. Abstract Model.- 4.6.2. Descriptive Model.- 4.6.3. Specification Models.- 4.7. Conclusions.- 5. Refinement of the OSSAD Methodology by Multiclient Field Testing.- 5.1. Overview.- 5.2. Framework for Research Work.- 5.2.1. Research Objective.- 5.2.2. Research Setting.- 5.3. Research Methods.- 5.3.1. Study Methods.- 5.3.2. Experimental Methods.- 5.3.3. Action Research.- 5.3.4. Methodological Pluralism.- 5.4. Field Test Practice in the Development of OSSAD Methodology.- 5.4.1. The Application of the 7S-Frame to the OSSAD Field Test Practice.- 5.4.2. The Contextual Framework of the Analysis.- 5.4.3. Sequence of Methodological Steps.- 5.4.4. Use and Relevance of Instruments and Procedures, Models and Concepts.- 5.4.5. Strategic Aspects and Findings on the OSSAD Methodology.- 5.5. Some Results of Other OSSAD Field Testings.- 5.6. Conclusions.- 6. Technical Specification of an Information System.- 6.1. Technical Information System Specification.- 6.2. Information System Structure and User Interface Specification.- 6.3. Software Specification.- 6.4. Specification of Files, Databases, and Knowledge Bases.- 6.5. Specification of Data Media, Hardware, and Other Facilities.- 6.6. Specification of Systems Interconnections.- 6.7. Specification of Information System Quality and Control Features.- 6.8. Framework for Technical Specification Process.- 6.9. Conclusions.- 7. Decision Criteria for Information System Development Tool Selection.- 7.1. Types of Tools for Supporting ISD Processes.- 7.2. Reasons for Acquiring a Tool.- 7.3. Issues in Selection Processes.- 7.4. Rating Selection Criteria.- 7.5. Computerized Support of the Selection Process.- 7.6. Conclusions.- IV Toward Intelligent Executive Information Systems.- 8. Strategic Decision Making.- 8.1. Motivation f