Design research promotes understanding of advanced, cutting-edge information systems through the construction and evaluation of these systems and their components. Since this method of research can produce rigorous, meaningful results in the absence of a strong theory base, it excels in investigating new and even speculative technologies, offering the potential to advance accepted practice. Design Science Research Methods and Patterns presents innovative research methods that help break new ground by applying patterns, reuse, and design science to research. The book relies on familiar patterns to provide the solid fundamentals of various research philosophies and techniques as touchstones that demonstrate how to innovate research methods. Filled with practical examples of applying patterns to IT research with an emphasis on reusing research activities to save time and money, this book describes design science research in relation to other information systems research paradigms such as positivist and interpretivist research.