On the Role of Regulation in Information Systems Research: Literature Review and Research Agenda

Regulation is key for effective information systems use and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), place particular challenges for regulation, as functionalities of these technologies are largely unknown at time of regulation. This study systematically reviews the body of knowledge on regulation in Information Systems (IS) research. The review identifies two research streams, (1) regulation of IS and (2) regulation through IS. We elaborate on three thematic areas regulation imposes in IS research – (1) the fragmented regulatory landscape (2) regulatory cost and (3) the impact of rapid technological change. The review proposes a research agenda to advance the understanding of IS regulation and highlight areas for further investigation.