Is it new? Is it true? Is it interesting? Is it useful?

Last updated Jan 27, 2025 | Originally published Apr 6, 2024

• Research

Mathematician GH Hardy asked three questions when evaluating research (Wilson, 2002, p. 168):

1. Is it new?
2. Is it interesting?
3. Is it true?

Arguably design science adds the question “Is it useful?” (perhaps as a sub-question of “is it interesting?”). See Gregor & Hevner (2013).

Gregor, S., & Hevner, A. R. (2013). Positioning and presenting design science research for maximum impact. MIS Quarterly, 37(2), 337-A6. https://www.jstor.org/stable/43825912

Wilson, J. R. (2002). Responsible authorship and peer review. Science and Engineering Ethics, 8(2), 155–174. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-002-0016-3