The Past, Present, and Future

Information Systems (IS) research is a multidisciplinary field at the intersection of technology, organisations, and society; however, it grapples with myriad tensions. Drawing on the existing literature, this article examines these, aiming to elucidate their complexities while balancing theoretical advancement and practical application. This is not intended to be an objective historical account of the evolution of the IS research field but rather an imaginative interpretation that captures the essence of the challenges faced by IS researchers. This article explores the origins and evolution of these tensions, providing insight from the extant literature in a field where researchers must investigate, design, and develop sound methods or approaches to conduct their research effectively.