Towards a quality meta-model for information systems

All models of information system (IS) quality postulate two constructs, namely 'quality' and 'model'. These concepts are seldom explicitly discussed and defined in connection with IS. Together, they constitute an information system quality meta-model. Compared to lower level models, a meta-model is likely to be more applicable in a wider variety of contexts. This article aims, firstly, to validate and develop further an initial IS quality meta-model that emerged from two previous studies. Secondly, it is an account of a real quality modeling process, in connection with the development of an Education Management Information System (EMIS) in Tanzania, and one that can be referenced by other researchers. This case is used to discover how the meta-model can be used as part of system development process, with a view to instantiating system- and attribute-specific quality models. The study supports the general validity of a two-part and three-level quality meta-model. It further suggests that quality is by its nature relative and that the essence of quality is embodied in relationships between the information system and its context. The meta-model functions well as a safeguard that can prevent developers from neglecting important aspects of quality design. In addition, it generates relevant questions for future research.