concept paper about research

Concept Papers in Research: Deciphering the blueprint of brilliance

Concept papers hold significant importance as a precursor to a full-fledged research proposal in academia and research. Understanding the nuances and significance of a concept paper is essential for any researcher aiming to lay a strong foundation for their investigation.

Table of Contents

What Is Concept Paper

A concept paper can be defined as a concise document which outlines the fundamental aspects of a grant proposal. It outlines the initial ideas, objectives, and theoretical framework of a proposed research project. It is usually two to three-page long overview of the proposal. However, they differ from both research proposal and original research paper in lacking a detailed plan and methodology for a specific study as in research proposal provides and exclusion of the findings and analysis of a completed research project as in an original research paper. A concept paper primarily focuses on introducing the basic idea, intended research question, and the framework that will guide the research.

Purpose of a Concept Paper

A concept paper serves as an initial document, commonly required by private organizations before a formal proposal submission. It offers a preliminary overview of a project or research’s purpose, method, and implementation. It acts as a roadmap, providing clarity and coherence in research direction. Additionally, it also acts as a tool for receiving informal input. The paper is used for internal decision-making, seeking approval from the board, and securing commitment from partners. It promotes cohesive communication and serves as a professional and respectful tool in collaboration.

These papers aid in focusing on the core objectives, theoretical underpinnings, and potential methodology of the research, enabling researchers to gain initial feedback and refine their ideas before delving into detailed research.

Key Elements of a Concept Paper

Key elements of a concept paper include the title page , background , literature review , problem statement , methodology, timeline, and references. It’s crucial for researchers seeking grants as it helps evaluators assess the relevance and feasibility of the proposed research.

Writing an effective concept paper in academic research involves understanding and incorporating essential elements:

How to Write a Concept Paper?

To ensure an effective concept paper, it’s recommended to select a compelling research topic, pose numerous research questions and incorporate data and numbers to support the project’s rationale. The document must be concise (around five pages) after tailoring the content and following the formatting requirements. Additionally, infographics and scientific illustrations can enhance the document’s impact and engagement with the audience. The steps to write a concept paper are as follows:

1. Write a Crisp Title:

Choose a clear, descriptive title that encapsulates the main idea. The title should express the paper’s content. It should serve as a preview for the reader.

2. Provide a Background Information:

Give a background information about the issue or topic. Define the key terminologies or concepts. Review existing literature to identify the gaps your concept paper aims to fill.

3. Outline Contents in the Introduction:

Introduce the concept paper with a brief overview of the problem or idea you’re addressing. Explain its significance. Identify the specific knowledge gaps your research aims to address and mention any contradictory theories related to your research question.

4. Define a Mission Statement:

The mission statement follows a clear problem statement that defines the problem or concept that need to be addressed. Write a concise mission statement that engages your research purpose and explains why gaining the reader’s approval will benefit your field.

5. Explain the Research Aim and Objectives:

Explain why your research is important and the specific questions you aim to answer through your research. State the specific goals and objectives your concept intends to achieve. Provide a detailed explanation of your concept. What is it, how does it work, and what makes it unique?

6. Detail the Methodology:

Discuss the research methods you plan to use, such as surveys, experiments, case studies, interviews, and observations. Mention any ethical concerns related to your research.

7. Outline Proposed Methods and Potential Impact:

Provide detailed information on how you will conduct your research, including any specialized equipment or collaborations. Discuss the expected results or impacts of implementing the concept. Highlight the potential benefits, whether social, economic, or otherwise.

8. Mention the Feasibility

Discuss the resources necessary for the concept’s execution. Mention the expected duration of the research and specific milestones. Outline a proposed timeline for implementing the concept.

9. Include a Support Section:

Include a section that breaks down the project’s budget, explaining the overall cost and individual expenses to demonstrate how the allocated funds will be used.

10. Provide a Conclusion:

Summarize the key points and restate the importance of the concept. If necessary, include a call to action or next steps.

Although the structure and elements of a concept paper may vary depending on the specific requirements, you can tailor your document based on the guidelines or instructions you’ve been given.

Here are some tips to write a concept paper:

Example of a Concept Paper

Here is an example of a concept paper. Please note, this is a generalized example. Your concept paper should align with the specific requirements, guidelines, and objectives you aim to achieve in your proposal. Tailor it accordingly to the needs and context of the initiative you are proposing.

 Download Now!

Importance of a Concept Paper

Concept papers serve various fields, influencing the direction and potential of research in science, social sciences, technology, and more. They contribute to the formulation of groundbreaking studies and novel ideas that can impact societal, economic, and academic spheres.

A concept paper serves several crucial purposes in various fields:

In summary, a well-crafted concept paper is essential in outlining a clear, concise, and structured framework for new ideas or proposals. It helps in assessing the feasibility, viability, and potential impact of the concept before investing significant resources into its implementation.

How well do you understand concept papers? Test your understanding now! 

Fill the Details to Check Your Score

Role of AI in Writing Concept Papers

The increasing use of AI, particularly generative models, has facilitated the writing process for concept papers. Responsible use involves leveraging AI to assist in ideation, organization, and language refinement while ensuring that the originality and ethical standards of research are maintained.

AI plays a significant role in aiding the creation and development of concept papers in several ways:

1. Idea Generation and Organization

AI tools can assist in brainstorming initial ideas for concept papers based on key concepts. They can help in organizing information, creating outlines, and structuring the content effectively.

2. Summarizing Research and Data Analysis

AI-powered tools can assist in conducting comprehensive literature reviews, helping writers to gather and synthesize relevant information. AI algorithms can process and analyze vast amounts of data, providing insights and statistics to support the concept presented in the paper.

3. Language and Style Enhancement

AI grammar checker tools can help writers by offering grammar, style, and tone suggestions, ensuring professionalism. It can also facilitate translation, in case a global collaboration.

4. Collaboration and Feedback

AI platforms offer collaborative features that enable multiple authors to work simultaneously on a concept paper, allowing for real-time contributions and edits.

5. Customization and Personalization

AI algorithms can provide personalized recommendations based on the specific requirements or context of the concept paper. They can assist in tailoring the concept paper according to the target audience or specific guidelines.

6. Automation and Efficiency

AI can automate certain tasks, such as citation formatting, bibliography creation, or reference checking, saving time for the writer.

7. Analytics and Prediction

AI models can predict potential outcomes or impacts based on the information provided, helping writers anticipate the possible consequences of the proposed concept.

8. Real-Time Assistance

AI-driven chat-bots can provide real-time support and answers to specific questions related to the concept paper writing process.

AI’s role in writing concept papers significantly streamlines the writing process, enhances the quality of the content, and provides valuable assistance in various stages of development, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the final document.

Concept papers serve as the stepping stone in the research journey, aiding in the crystallization of ideas and the formulation of robust research proposals. It the cornerstone for translating ideas into impactful realities. Their significance spans diverse domains, from academia to business, enabling stakeholders to evaluate, invest, and realize the potential of groundbreaking concepts.

Frequently Asked Questions

A concept paper can be defined as a concise document outlining the fundamental aspects of a grant proposal such as the initial ideas, objectives, and theoretical framework of a proposed research project.

A good concept paper should offer a clear and comprehensive overview of the proposed research. It should demonstrate a strong understanding of the subject matter and outline a structured plan for its execution.

Concept paper is important to develop and clarify ideas, develop and evaluate proposal, inviting collaboration and collecting feedback, presenting proposals for academic and research initiatives and allocating resources.

I got wonderful idea

It helps a lot for my concept paper.

Rate this article Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Enago Academy's Most Popular Articles

• Diversity and Inclusion

Need for Diversifying Academic Curricula: Embracing missing voices and marginalized perspectives

In classrooms worldwide, a single narrative often dominates, leaving many students feeling lost. These stories,…

• Career Corner
• Trending Now

Recognizing the signs: A guide to overcoming academic burnout

As the sun set over the campus, casting long shadows through the library windows, Alex…

Reassessing the Lab Environment to Create an Equitable and Inclusive Space

The pursuit of scientific discovery has long been fueled by diverse minds and perspectives. Yet…

• AI in Academia

Simplifying the Literature Review Journey — A comparative analysis of 6 AI summarization tools

Imagine having to skim through and read mountains of research papers and books, only to…

• Reporting Research

How to Improve Lab Report Writing: Best practices to follow with and without AI-assistance

Imagine you’re a scientist who just made a ground-breaking discovery! You want to share your…

Sign-up to read more

Subscribe for free to get unrestricted access to all our resources on research writing and academic publishing including:

• 2000+ blog articles
• 50+ Webinars
• 10+ Expert podcasts
• 50+ Infographics
• 10+ Checklists
• Research Guides

We hate spam too. We promise to protect your privacy and never spam you.

I am looking for Editing/ Proofreading services for my manuscript Tentative date of next journal submission:

As a researcher, what do you consider most when choosing an image manipulation detector?

Community Blog

Keep up-to-date on postgraduate related issues with our quick reads written by students, postdocs, professors and industry leaders.

What is a Concept Paper and How do You Write One?

• By DiscoverPhDs
• August 26, 2020

What is a Concept Paper?

A concept paper is a short document written by a researcher before starting their research project, with the purpose of explaining what the study is about, why it is important and the methods that will be used.

The concept paper will include your proposed research title, a brief introduction to the subject, the aim of the study, the research questions you intend to answer, the type of data you will collect and how you will collect it. A concept paper can also be referred to as a research proposal.

What is the Purpose of a Concept Paper?

The primary aim of a research concept paper is to convince the reader that the proposed research project is worth doing. This means that the reader should first agree that the research study is novel and interesting. They should be convinced that there is a need for this research and that the research aims and questions are appropriate.

Finally, they should be satisfied that the methods for data collection proposed are feasible, are likely to work and can be performed within the specific time period allocated for this project.

The three main scenarios in which you may need to write a concept paper are if you are:

• A final year undergraduate or master’s student preparing to start a research project with a supervisor.
• A student submitting a research proposal to pursue a PhD project under the supervision of a professor.
• A principal investigator submitting a proposal to a funding body to secure financial support for a research project.

How Long is a Concept Paper?

The concept paper format is usually between 2 and 3 pages in length for students writing proposals for undergraduate, master’s or PhD projects. Concept papers written as part of funding applications may be over 20 pages in length.

How do you Write a Concept Paper?

There are 6 important aspects to consider when writing a concept paper or research proposal:

• 1. The wording of the title page, which is best presented as a question for this type of document. At this study concept stage, you can write the title a bit catchier, for example “Are 3D Printed Engine Parts Safe for Use in Aircraft?”.
• A brief introduction and review of relevant existing literature published within the subject area and identification of where the gaps in knowledge are. This last bit is particularly important as it guides you in defining the statement of the problem. The concept paper should provide a succinct summary of ‘the problem’, which is usually related to what is unknown or poorly understood about your research topic . By the end of the concept paper, the reader should be clear on how your research idea will provide a ‘solution’ to this problem.
• The overarching research aim of your proposed study and the objectives and/or questions you will address to achieve this aim. Align all of these with the problem statement; i.e. write each research question as a clear response to addressing the limitations and gaps identified from previous literature. Also give a clear description of your primary hypothesis.
• The specific data outputs that you plan to capture. For example, will this be qualitative or quantitative data? Do you plan to capture data at specific time points or at other defined intervals? Do you need to repeat data capture to asses any repeatability and reproducibility questions?
• The research methodology you will use to capture this data, including any specific measurement or analysis equipment and software you will use, and a consideration of statistical tests to help interpret the data. If your research requires the use of questionnaires, how will these be prepared and validated? In what sort of time frame would you plan to collect this data?
• Finally, include a statement of the significance of the study , explaining why your research is important and impactful. This can be in the form of a concluding paragraph that reiterate the statement of the problem, clarifies how your research will address this and explains who will benefit from your research and how.

You may need to include a short summary of the timeline for completing the research project. Defining milestones of the time points at which you intend to complete certain tasks can help to show that you’ve considered the practicalities of running this study. It also shows that what you have proposed is feasible in order to achieve your research goal.

If you’re pitching your proposed project to a funder, they may allocate a proportion of the money based on the satisfactory outcome of each milestone. These stakeholders may also be motivated by knowing that you intend to convert your dissertation into an article for journal publication; this level of dissemination is of high importance to them.

Additionally, you may be asked to provide a brief summary of the projected costs of running the study. For a PhD project this could be the bench fees associated with consumables and the cost of any travel if required.

Make sure to include references and cite all other literature and previous research that you discuss in your concept paper.

This guide gave you an overview of the key elements you need to know about when writing concept papers. The purpose of these are first to convey to the reader what your project’s purpose is and why your research topic is important; this is based on the development of a problem statement using evidence from your literature review.

Explain how it may positively impact your research field and if your proposed research design is appropriate and your planned research method achievable.

A science investigatory project is a science-based research project or study that is performed by school children in a classroom, exhibition or science fair.

Scientific misconduct can be described as a deviation from the accepted standards of scientific research, study and publication ethics.

Considering whether to do an MBA or a PhD? If so, find out what their differences are, and more importantly, which one is better suited for you.

Join thousands of other students and stay up to date with the latest PhD programmes, funding opportunities and advice.

Browse PhDs Now

A thesis and dissertation appendix contains additional information which supports your main arguments. Find out what they should include and how to format them.

The term rationale of research means the reason for performing the research study in question.

Dr Aitsi-Selmi gained her social epidemiology PhD from UCL in 2013. She now runs a private practice in Transformational Coaching and Consulting focused on careers, leadership and wellbeing.

Dr Thirlaway gained his PhD in immunology from the University of Nottingham in 2018. He is now a Science Communicator at the Natural History Museum, London.

Join Thousands of Students

How To Write a Concept Paper for Academic Research: An Ultimate Guide

A concept paper is one of the first steps in helping you fully realize your research project. Because of this, some schools opt to teach students how to write concept papers as early as high school. In college, professors sometimes require their students to submit concept papers before suggesting their research projects to serve as the foundations for their theses.

If you’re reading this right now, you’ve probably been assigned by your teacher or professor to write a concept paper. To help you get started, we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide on how to write a proper concept paper.

Related: How to Write Significance of the Study (with Examples)

Table of Contents

What is the concept paper, 1. academic research concept papers, 2. advertising concept papers, 3. research grant concept papers, concept paper vs. research proposal, tips for finding your research topic, 2. think of research questions that you want to answer in your project, 3. formulate your research hypothesis, 4. plan out how you will achieve, analyze, and present your data, 2. introduction, 3. purpose of the study, 4. preliminary literature review, 5. objectives of the study, 6. research questions and hypotheses, 7. proposed methodology, 8. proposed research timeline, 9. references, sample concept paper for research proposal (pdf), tips for writing your concept paper.

Generally, a concept paper is a summary of everything related to your proposed project or topic. A concept paper indicates what the project is all about, why it’s important, and how and when you plan to conduct your project.

Different Types of the Concept Paper and Their Uses

This type of concept paper is the most common type and the one most people are familiar with. Concept papers for academic research are used by students to provide an outline for their prospective research topics.

These concept papers are used to help students flesh out all the information and ideas related to their topic so that they may arrive at a more specific research hypothesis.

Since this is the most common type of concept paper, it will be the main focus of this article.

Advertising concept papers are usually written by the creative and concept teams in advertising and marketing agencies.

Through a concept paper, the foundation or theme for an advertising campaign or strategy is formed. The concept paper can also serve as a bulletin board for ideas that the creative and concept teams can add to or develop. 

This type of concept paper usually discusses who the target audience of the campaign is, what approach of the campaign will be, how the campaign will be implemented, and the projected benefits and impact of the campaign to the company’s sales, consumer base, and other aspects of the company.

This type of concept paper is most common in the academe and business world. Alongside proving why your research project should be conducted, a research grant concept paper must also appeal to the company or funding agency on why they should be granted funds.

The paper should indicate a proposed timeline and budget for the entire project. It should also be able to persuade the company or funding agency on the benefits of your research project– whether it be an increase in sales or productivity or for the benefit of the general public.

It’s important to discuss the differences between the two because a lot of people often use these terms interchangeably.

A concept paper is one of the first steps in conducting a research project. It is during this process that ideas and relevant information to the research topic are gathered to produce the research hypothesis. Thus, a concept paper should always precede the research proposal. 

A research proposal is a more in-depth outline of a more fleshed-out research project. This is the final step before a researcher can conduct their research project. Although both have similar elements and structures, a research proposal is more specific when it comes to how the entire research project will be conducted.

Getting Started on Your Concept Paper

1. find a research topic you are interested in.

When choosing a research topic, make sure that it is something you are passionate about or want to learn more about. If you are writing one for school, make sure it is still relevant to the subject of your class. Choosing a topic you aren’t invested in may cause you to lose interest in your project later on, which may lower the quality of the research you’ll produce.

A research project may last for months and even years, so it’s important that you will never lose interest in your topic.

• Look for inspiration everywhere. Take a walk outside, read books, or go on your computer. Look around you and try to brainstorm ideas about everything you see. Try to remember any questions you might have asked yourself before like why something is the way it is or why can’t this be done instead of that . 
• Think big. If you’re having trouble thinking up a specific topic to base your research project on, choosing a broad topic and then working your way down should help.
• Is it achievable? A lot of students make the mistake of choosing a topic that is hard to achieve in terms of materials, data, and/or funding available. Before you decide on a research topic, make sure you consider these aspects. Doing so will save you time, money, and effort later on.
• Be as specific as can be. Another common mistake that students make is that they sometimes choose a research topic that is too broad. This results in extra effort and wasted time while conducting their research project. For example: Instead of “The Effects of Bananas on Hungry Monkeys” , you could specify it to “The Effects of Cavendish Bananas on Potassium-deficiency in Hungry Philippine Long-tailed Macaques in Palawan, Philippines”.

Now that you have a general idea of the topic of your research project, you now need to formulate research questions based on your project. These questions will serve as the basis for what your project aims to answer. Like your research topic, make sure these are specific and answerable.

Following the earlier example, possible research questions could be:

• Do Cavendish bananas produce more visible effects on K-deficiency than other bananas?
• How susceptible are Philippine long-tailed macaques to K-deficiency?
• What are the effects of K-deficiency in Philippine long-tailed macaques?

After formulating the research questions, you should also provide your hypothesis for each question. A research hypothesis is a tentative answer to the research problem. You must provide educated answers to the questions based on your existing knowledge of the topic before you conduct your research project.

After conducting research and collecting all of the data into the final research paper, you will then have to approve or disprove these hypotheses based on the outcome of the project.

Prepare a plan on how to acquire the data you will need for your research project. Take note of the different types of analysis you will need to perform on your data to get the desired results. Determine the nature of the relationship between different variables in your research.

Also, make sure that you are able to present your data in a clear and readable manner for those who will read your concept paper. You can achieve this by using tables, charts, graphs, and other visual aids.

Related: How to Make Conceptual Framework (with Examples and Templates)

Generalized Structure of a Concept Paper

Since concept papers are just summaries of your research project, they are usually short and  no longer than 5 pages. However, for big research projects, concept papers can reach up to more than 20 pages.

Your teacher or professor may give you a certain format for your concept papers. Generally, most concept papers are double-spaced and are less than 500 words in length. 

Even though there are different types of concept papers, we’ve provided you with a generalized structure that contains elements that can be found in any type of concept paper.

The title for your paper must be able to effectively summarize what your research is all about. Use simple words so that people who read the title of your research will know what it’s all about even without reading the entire paper. 

The introduction should give the reader a brief background of the research topic and state the main objective that your project aims to achieve. This section should also include a short overview of the benefits of the research project to persuade the reader to acknowledge the need for the project.

The Purpose of the Study should be written in a way that convinces the reader of the need to address the existing problem or gap in knowledge that the research project aims to resolve. In this section, you have to go into more detail about the benefits and value of your project for the target audience/s. 

This section features related studies and papers that will support your research topic. Use this section to analyze the results and methodologies of previous studies and address any gaps in knowledge or questions that your research project aims to answer. You may also use the data to assert the importance of conducting your research.

When choosing which papers and studies you should include in the Preliminary Literature Review, make sure to choose relevant and reliable sources. Reliable sources include academic journals, credible news outlets, government websites, and others. Also, take note of the authors for the papers as you will need to cite them in the References section.

Simply state the main objectives that your research is trying to achieve. The objectives should be able to indicate the direction of the study for both the reader and the researcher. As with other elements in the paper, the objectives should be specific and clearly defined.

Gather the research questions and equivalent research hypotheses you formulated in the earlier step and list them down in this section.

In this section, you should be able to guide the reader through the process of how you will conduct the research project. Make sure to state the purpose for each step of the process, as well as the type of data to be collected and the target population.

Depending on the nature of your research project, the length of the entire process can vary significantly. What’s important is that you are able to provide a reasonable and achievable timeline for your project.

Make sure the time you will allot for each component of your research won’t be too excessive or too insufficient so that the quality of your research won’t suffer.

Ensure that you will give credit to all the authors of the sources you used in your paper. Depending on your area of study or the instructions of your professor, you may need to use a certain style of citation.

There are three main citation styles: the American Psychological Association (APA), Modern Language Association (MLA), and the Chicago style.

The APA style is mostly used for papers related to education, psychology, and the sciences. The APA citation style usually follows this format:

The MLA citation style is the format used by papers and manuscripts in disciplines related to the arts and humanities. The MLA citation style follows this format:

The Chicago citation style is usually used for papers related to business, history, and the fine arts. It follows this citation format:

This is a concept paper sample provided by Dr. Bernard Lango from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (modified for use in this article). Simply click the link above the download the PDF file.

• Use simple, concise language. Minimize the use of flowery language and always try to use simple and easy-to-understand language. Too many technical or difficult words in your paper may alienate your readers and make your paper hard to read. 
• Choose your sources wisely. When scouring the Internet for sources to use, you should always be wary and double-check the authenticity of your source. Doing this will increase the authenticity of your research project’s claims and ensure better data gathered during the process.
• Follow the specified format, if any. Make sure to follow any specified format when writing your concept paper. This is very important, especially if you’re writing your concept paper for class. Failure to follow the format will usually result in point deductions and delays because of multiple revisions needed.
• Proofread often. Make it a point to reread different sections of your concept paper after you write them. Another way you can do this is by taking a break for a few days and then coming back to proofread your writing. You may notice certain areas you’d like to revise or mistakes you’d like to fix. Make proofreading a habit to increase the quality of your paper.

Written by Ruth Raganit

in Career and Education , Juander How

Ruth Raganit

Ruth Raganit obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from the University of the Philippines – Diliman. Her love affair with Earth sciences began when she saw a pretty rock and wondered how it came to be. She also likes playing video games, doing digital art, and reading manga.

Browse all articles written by Ruth Raganit

Copyright Notice

All materials contained on this site are protected by the Republic of the Philippines copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, or broadcast without the prior written permission of filipiknow.net or in the case of third party materials, the owner of that content. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright, or other notice from copies of the content. Be warned that we have already reported and helped terminate several websites and YouTube channels for blatantly stealing our content. If you wish to use filipiknow.net content for commercial purposes, such as for content syndication, etc., please contact us at legal(at)filipiknow(dot)net

What exactly is a Concept Paper, and how do you write one?

Learn why a concept paper is important, what the main elements of a research concept paper are, and how to create an excellent one.

Prior to submitting a formal proposal (business proposal, product, or research proposal), many private organizations have historically asked for the submission of a concept paper for review. 

Recently, organizations have begun to advocate for the usage of concept papers as a way for applicants to obtain informal input on their ideas and projects before submitting a proposal. Several of these organizations now demand a concept paper as part of the official application process. 

Simply described, a concept paper is a preliminary document that explains the purpose of research, why it is being conducted, and how it will be performed. It examines a concept or idea and offers an outline of the topic that a researcher wants to pursue. Continue reading to learn more about concept papers and how to create a good one. 

What a concept paper is and its purpose

A concept paper is a brief paper that outlines the important components of a research or project before it is carried out. Its purpose is to offer an overview. Entrepreneurs working on a business idea or product, as well as students and researchers, frequently write concept papers .  

Researchers may be required to prepare a concept paper when submitting a project proposal to a funding authority to acquire the required grants.

As a consequence, the importance is based on the fact that it should help the examiner determine whether the research is relevant, practicable, and useful . 

If not, they may suggest looking into a different research area. It also allows the examiner to assess your comprehension of the research and, as a result, if you are likely to require assistance in completing the research.

Illustrate your Concept Paper with infographics 

Infographics are very useful to explain complex subjects in a very short time. Use Mind the Graph to create beautiful infographics for your Concept Paper with scientifically accurate illustrations, icons, arrows and many other design tools.

Concept paper’s elements for an academic research 

To produce an effective concept paper, you must first comprehend the essential elements of academic research:

• Title page: Mention the applicant’s name, institution, project title, and submission date.
• Background for the research: The second section should be the purpose section, which should be able to clear out what has already been stated about the subject, any gaps in information that need to be filled or problems to be solved, as well as the reason why you wish to examine the issue.
• Literature review: In this section, you should provide a theoretical basis and supporting material for your chosen subject.
• State the problem and your goals: Describe the overall problems, including the research questions and objectives. State your research’s unique and original aspects, concentrate on providing and clearly discussing your goals towards the problem.
• Methodology: Provide the data analysis system to be utilized, data collecting method, tools to be used, and research participants in this section.
• Timeline: Include a realistic timeline estimate that is defined in months and years.
• References: Add a list of all sources cited in your concept paper , such as books, journals, and other resources.

Tips on writing an effective concept paper

A concept paper is extremely crucial for a project or research, especially if it requires funding. Check out these simple tips to ensure your concept paper is successful and simple.

• Choose a research topic that truly piques your curiosity
• Create a list of research questions. The more, the merrier.
• When describing the project’s reasoning, use data and numbers. 
• Use no more than 5 single-spaced pages. 
• Tailor your speech to the appropriate audience.
• Make certain that the basic format elements, such as page numbers, are included. 
• Spend additional time on your timeline as this section is critical for funding.
• Give specific examples of how you plan to measure your progress toward your goals.
• Provide an initial budget when seeking funds. Sponsors will want to obtain an idea of how much funds are required.

Start creating infographics and scientific illustrations

Use the power of infographics and scientific illustrations to your advantage. Including graphic assets in your work may increase your authority and highlight all of the most valuable information, ensuring that your audience is engaged and completely comprehensive of the information you are providing.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Exclusive high quality content about effective visual communication in science.

Unlock Your Creativity

Create infographics, presentations and other scientifically-accurate designs without hassle — absolutely free for 7 days!

About Jessica Abbadia

Jessica Abbadia is a lawyer that has been working in Digital Marketing since 2020, improving organic performance for apps and websites in various regions through ASO and SEO. Currently developing scientific and intellectual knowledge for the community's benefit. Jessica is an animal rights activist who enjoys reading and drinking strong coffee.

Content tags

How to Write a Concept Paper Easily with Our Guide

Did you know that some of the most revolutionary ideas in history started with a simple concept paper? From scientific breakthroughs to groundbreaking inventions, the power of well-crafted concept papers cannot be underestimated.

In this article, experts at our academic essay writing service will demystify the process of writing a concept paper, offering straightforward tips and guidance to help you articulate your ideas effectively. Whether you're a researcher, entrepreneur, or student, you'll lay the foundation for your next big endeavor effortlessly.

Defining What is a Concept Paper

A concept paper is a starting point for any major project or research endeavor. When you're asked to write one, what your teachers or professors are really asking for is a clear, concise summary of what you plan to explore or investigate. It's your chance to explain your idea, why it matters, and how you're going to tackle it.

Imagine you're pitching your idea to someone who doesn't know anything about it. You want to grab their attention and get them excited about what you're planning to do. That's what a concept paper is all about – setting the stage for your project or research in a way that makes people want to learn more.

Don't Delay Your Scholarly Pursuits!

Our team is here to nurture your concepts! Seize this opportunity to lay the groundwork for your academic exploration.

Why Does a Concept Paper Matter

So, why does knowing how to write a concept paper for academic research matter? First off, it helps you clarify your thoughts and organize your ideas. Writing down your concept forces you to think through the details of your project, which can be super helpful, especially when things start to get overwhelming.

Secondly, it's a way to get feedback early on. By sharing your concept paper with your teachers, advisors, or classmates, you can get valuable input that can help you refine your idea and make it even better.

Plus, it shows that you're serious about your project. Taking the time to write a concept paper demonstrates to your instructors that you've put thought and effort into your work, which can earn you some serious brownie points.

Understanding How Long is a Concept Paper

When it comes to the length of a concept paper, think quality over quantity. It's not about hitting a specific word count; it's about conveying your ideas clearly and concisely. In general, a concept paper is meant to be short and to the point. You want to give enough detail to explain your idea thoroughly, but you don't want to overwhelm your reader with unnecessary information.

As a rule of thumb, most concept papers range from 1 to 3 pages. However, this can vary depending on your specific assignment or the requirements of the project you're proposing.

The key is to focus on the essentials. Include a brief introduction to your topic, a clear statement of your purpose or objective, an overview of your methodology or approach, and a summary of the potential impact or significance of your project. And if you ever need further help, simply ask us - write my research paper for the professionally crafted project.

Concept Paper Vs. Research Paper

While both concept papers and research papers are common in academia, they serve different purposes and have distinct formats.

A concept paper, as we've discussed, is a concise document that outlines the basic idea or proposal for a project. It's like the blueprint or roadmap for your research endeavor. The focus here is on articulating the central concept, defining the objectives, and outlining the methodology. Think of writing a concept paper as laying the groundwork before diving into the detailed work of a research project.

On the other hand, a research paper is a more comprehensive and in-depth exploration of a topic or question. It involves conducting original research, analyzing data, and presenting findings in a formal written format. Research papers typically follow a structured format, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.

How to Write a Concept Paper in 8 Steps

Alright, getting into the nitty-gritty of writing your concept paper format might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but don't worry! We've got your back. By breaking down the process into eight manageable steps, we'll guide you through each stage with clarity and confidence.

Define the Study Title and Its Objectives

The first crucial step in crafting your concept paper is to clearly define the study title and its objectives. This sets the foundation for your entire paper and helps guide your research direction.

Begin by crafting a clear and concise title that effectively communicates the essence of your study. Your title should be descriptive yet succinct, giving readers a glimpse into the focus of your research.

Next, outline the objectives of your study. What specific goals do you aim to achieve through your research? Be precise and realistic in outlining these objectives, ensuring they are achievable within the scope of your study.

Explain the Study's Context and Extent

After defining the title and objectives, it's essential to provide context and define the extent of your study. This step of how to write a concept paper for college helps readers understand the background and scope of your research.

Start by providing background information on the topic of your study. Discuss relevant theories, concepts, or existing research that contextualizes your work and highlights its importance.

Next, define the extent of your study by outlining its boundaries and limitations. What specific aspects of the topic will you focus on, and what areas will you exclude? Clarifying these boundaries helps ensure that your research remains focused and manageable.

Additionally, consider discussing the significance of your study within the broader field. How does your research contribute to existing knowledge, and what potential impact does it have?

Identify the Issue

This is where you clearly articulate the core challenge or question that your research seeks to explore. Start by providing a concise overview of the issue at hand. What is the specific problem or question that motivates your research? Why is it important or relevant within your field of study?

Next, consider providing context or background information that helps readers understand the significance of the issue. This could include discussing relevant trends, statistics, or real-world examples that highlight the importance of addressing the problem.

Finally, be sure to articulate the significance of the issue within the broader context of your field. Why is it important to study this particular issue, and what potential impact could your research have on addressing it?

List Goals and Objectives

In this step, you'll make a concept paper outline of the specific goals and objectives of your study. Goals represent the broader aims of your research, while objectives provide clear, measurable steps toward achieving those goals.

Start by defining your overarching goals. What do you hope to accomplish through your research? Think about the broader outcomes or changes you aim to bring about in your field or community.

Next, break down these goals into smaller, achievable objectives. Objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). They should outline the concrete steps you will take to accomplish your goals.

Consider organizing your goals and objectives into a hierarchical structure, with broader goals at the top and more specific objectives underneath. Even if you'd rather buy essay from our pros, this step will help you provide clarity and coherence to your research plan.

Approach and Methodology

In this step, you'll detail the approach and methodology you'll use to conduct your research. According to our expert thesis writing service , this section is crucial as it outlines the methods you'll employ to address your research question and achieve your objectives.

Start by explaining your overall approach to research. Will you be conducting qualitative or quantitative research, or perhaps a combination of both? Describe the rationale behind your chosen approach and how it aligns with your research goals.

Next, outline the specific methodologies you'll use to collect and analyze data. This may include methods such as surveys, interviews, experiments, or literature reviews. Provide justification for why each method is appropriate for addressing your research question and objectives.

Be sure to consider any ethical considerations or limitations associated with your chosen methodologies and outline how you plan to address them.

Finally, discuss your data analysis plan. How will you analyze the data you collect to draw meaningful conclusions? Will you use statistical analysis, thematic coding, or another method?

Overview of Planned Methods and Expected Outcomes

In this step of how to write a concept paper for research, you'll provide an overview of the specific methods you plan to use and outline the expected outcomes or results.

Start by summarizing the methods you'll employ to collect data. This may include qualitative methods such as interviews or focus groups, quantitative methods such as surveys or experiments, or a combination of both. Briefly explain why you've chosen these methods and how they align with your research goals.

Next, outline the planned steps for implementing each method. Describe the procedures you'll follow to collect and analyze data, including any tools or instruments you'll use.

After detailing your methods, discuss the expected outcomes or results of your research. What do you hope to learn or discover through your study? How will your findings contribute to existing knowledge in your field?

Be realistic in your expectations and consider potential challenges or limitations that may affect your results. By acknowledging these factors upfront, you demonstrate a thoughtful and nuanced understanding of your research process.

Include Supporting Details

Here, you'll enrich your concept paper by incorporating supporting details that bolster your argument and provide additional context for your research.

Start by providing relevant background information or literature reviews that support your research topic. This could include citing key studies, theories, or concepts that inform your understanding of the issue.

Next, consider including any relevant data, statistics, or examples that illustrate the significance of your research topic. This could involve presenting findings from previous studies, real-world examples, or case studies that highlight the need for further investigation.

Additionally, discuss any theoretical frameworks or conceptual models that underpin your research approach. How do these frameworks help guide your study and shape your research questions?

Finally, be sure to cite your sources properly using the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA). This demonstrates academic integrity and allows readers to verify the information you've presented.

Wrap Up with a Summary

In this final step, you'll bring your concept paper to a close by summarizing the key points and reinforcing the significance of your research.

If you're uncertain how to write a conclusion for an essay , start by briefly recapping the main elements of your concept paper, including the research topic, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. This helps reinforce the central message of your paper and reminds readers of the key insights you've presented.

Next, reiterate the importance of your research topic and its potential impact within your field. Emphasize how your study fills a gap in existing knowledge or addresses a pressing issue, highlighting the relevance and significance of your research.

Finally, conclude with a call to action or a thought-provoking statement that encourages further reflection or discussion. This could involve suggesting avenues for future research, proposing practical implications for policymakers or practitioners, or inviting readers to consider the broader implications of your findings.

Tips for Writing a Concept Paper

Now that you've got a solid understanding of how to write a concept paper, let's explore some invaluable tips to help you navigate the writing process with finesse.

• Be Specific in Your Objectives : Clearly define your objectives with measurable outcomes. Avoid vague language and ensure each objective is actionable and achievable within the scope of your study. Specific objectives provide clarity and help guide your research effectively.
• Provide Contextual Background : Offer sufficient background information to contextualize your research topic. This includes explaining relevant theories, historical context, or existing literature related to your study. Providing context in your concept paper helps readers understand the significance of your research and its relevance within the broader field.
• Justify Your Methodological Choices : Explain why you've chosen specific research methods and justify their appropriateness for your study. Consider factors such as feasibility, ethical considerations, and alignment with your research objectives. Providing a rationale for your methodological choices adds credibility to your research approach.
• Anticipate and Address Limitations : Acknowledge potential limitations or challenges associated with your study and discuss how you plan to mitigate them. This demonstrates a thoughtful approach to your research and shows that you've considered the broader implications of your study. Being transparent about limitations also helps manage expectations and build trust with your audience.

Concept Paper Example

Now that we've explored the steps and tips for writing a concept paper let's put theory into practice. In this section, we'll provide you with a concept paper example to illustrate how these principles can be applied in a real-world scenario.

Eager to See Your Ideas Leap Off the Page?

Don't wait any longer—bring your concepts to life with our expertly crafted concept papers.

Concept Paper Topics

In this section, we'll provide you with a range of thought-provoking concept paper ideas spanning various disciplines and interests. Whether you're passionate about social issues, scientific advancements, or want to learn how to research a topic on cultural phenomena, you're sure to find inspiration here.

• The Influence of Instagram Fitness Influencers on Body Image Perception Among Adolescent Girls
• Implementing Bicycle-Sharing Programs to Reduce Carbon Emissions in Downtown Metropolitan Areas
• Analyzing the Effectiveness of Food Pantry Programs in Alleviating Food Insecurity Among Undergraduate Students at Urban Universities
• Assessing the Accuracy and Efficiency of Machine Learning Algorithms in Early Detection of Breast Cancer Using Medical Imaging Data
• Strategies for Increasing Female Representation in Computer Science and Engineering Programs at Universities
• Investigating the Impact of Workplace Mindfulness Programs on Employee Burnout Rates in High-stress Industries
• Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Services in Rural Appalachia: A Case Study
• The Ecological Impact of Microplastic Contamination on Coral Reef Ecosystems in the Caribbean
• Addressing Online Harassment and Cyberbullying Among Middle School Students Through Digital Literacy Education Programs
• The Relationship Between Proximity to Parks and Greenspaces and Mental Health Outcomes in Urban Dwellers: A Cross-sectional Study
• Virtual Reality Rehabilitation for Upper Limb Motor Recovery After Stroke: A Comparative Analysis of Traditional Therapy Methods
• Evaluating the Economic Viability and Environmental Sustainability of Indoor Vertical Farming Systems in Urban Settings
• Psychological Profiles of Adolescent Online Gamers: A Longitudinal Study on Risk Factors for Gaming Addiction
• Peer Mentoring Interventions for Improving Academic Performance and Retention Rates Among First-generation College Students in STEM Majors
• Universal Basic Income Pilot Programs: Assessing Socioeconomic Impacts and Policy Implications in Scandinavian Countries.

And there you have it - you've journeyed through the ins and outs of concept paper writing! You've learned the ropes, discovered valuable tips, explored an example, and got a bunch of topic ideas to fuel your creativity.

Now armed with the know-how, it's time to dive in and start crafting your concept paper. Remember to keep it focused, stay organized, and don't forget to let your passion shine through. With your enthusiasm and newfound skills, there's no doubt you'll create a paper that grabs attention and makes a real impact in your field.

Related Articles

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Finance and Business
• Business Skills
• Business Writing

How to Write a Concept Paper

Last Updated: March 20, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,628,419 times. Learn more...

If you’ve got a great idea for a new product, program, or service, writing a concept paper is one way to seek funding for it. Concept papers describe the purpose and projected outcomes of the project, and are delivered to potential sponsors. To create a successful one, use clear, passionate language that expresses why your project matters, and who will benefit from it. Above all, show the sponsor that the goals of your project match up with the kinds of initiatives they want to support.

Sample Concept Papers

Establishing the Purpose

• For instance, you could start off your paper with an attention-grabbing statistic related to your project: “Every year, 10.5 million pounds of food go to waste due to one common pest: rats.”
• Giving your concept paper a descriptive title, like “Lock the Rat Box: Humane, Hands-Free Rodent Control,” is another good way to grab their attention.

• Try something like: “The Savco Foundation has long been committed to funding projects that foster healthy communities. We have developed Lock the Rat Box as an easy, cost-effective means to lower illness rates and sanitation costs in municipalities, and are seeking your support for the project.”

• For instance, your concept paper could include a statement like: “Rats are a nuisance, but also a serious vector of diseases such as rabies and the bubonic plague. Municipalities across the United States spend upwards of twenty million dollars a year combating these issues.”
• Include references to verify any data you cite.

Explaining How your Concept Works

• For instance, your project may involve building a prototype device to humanely trap rats.
• Your methods might also involve activities. For instance, you may propose advertising programs to educate communities about rat problems, or sending investigators to study the extent of the issue in various communities.

• Try using statements like: “While previous governmental services have explained rat infestations via poster, radio, and television campaigns, they have not taken advantage of social media as a means of connecting with community members. Our project fills that gap.”

• For example: “February 2018: sign a lease for a workshop space. Late February 2018: purchase materials for Lock the Rat Box prototype. March 2018: conduct preliminary tests of the prototype.”

• Other assessment tools could include things like surveys to gauge customer satisfaction, community involvement, or other metrics.

• Personnel, including any assistants
• Equipment and supplies
• Consultants you may need to bring in
• Space (rent, for example)

Reviewing the Draft

• If the application requests a particular format, follow the directions exactly.
• Otherwise, type your paper in a standard font at a readable size (12 point is good), number your pages, and use reasonable margins (1 inch all around is fine).

• For instance, avoid statements like “We believe that our product, Lock the Rat Box, could potentially help certain municipalities at least control rat infestations.”
• A stronger statement would be: “Lock the Rat Box will curtail rat infestations in any mid-sized municipality, and completely eradicate them in many cases.”

• If you are writing for a general, non-expert audience, ask someone unfamiliar with your project to read your concept paper and tell you if there were any parts they did not understand.

• Have someone who has not previously read your concept paper take a look at the final draft before you submit it. They’ll be more likely to catch any lingering errors.

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.aub.edu.lb/ogc/Documents/Writing_Concept_Paper.pdf
• ↑ https://ovpr.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/2557/2018/09/How-to-Write-a-Concept-Paper.pdf
• ↑ https://www.ias.edu/sites/default/files/media-assets/Guidance%20Doc_Concept%20Paper.pdf
• ↑ https://www.umass.edu/cfr/grant-writing/guidelines-letter-intent

About This Article

To write a concept paper for a new product, program, or service, start with a descriptive, attention-grabbing title. Then, explain why you’re approaching the sponsor by describing what your project goals have in common with their company mission. Next, describe the problem you want to solve, and the methods you’ll use in order to solve it. Additionally, include a timeline for implementing your methods, and a preliminary budget with a list of the estimated costs. Finally, end your paper with a short summary reiterating your project’s purpose. For more advice, including how to make your paper stand out with proper formatting and action-oriented language, keep reading. Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Kathryn Torres

Jul 17, 2020

Did this article help you?

Ongole Churchill

Jun 17, 2016

Ruth Denson

Mar 6, 2020

Naseem Khan

Apr 4, 2019

Kumudham Sandrasegaran

Oct 5, 2018

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The Online Writing Lab at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service of the Writing Lab at Purdue. Students, members of the community, and users worldwide will find information to assist with many writing projects. Teachers and trainers may use this material for in-class and out-of-class instruction.

The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives. The Purdue OWL offers global support through online reference materials and services.

A Message From the Assistant Director of Content Development 

The Purdue OWL® is committed to supporting  students, instructors, and writers by offering a wide range of resources that are developed and revised with them in mind. To do this, the OWL team is always exploring possibilties for a better design, allowing accessibility and user experience to guide our process. As the OWL undergoes some changes, we welcome your feedback and suggestions by email at any time.

Please don't hesitate to contact us via our contact page  if you have any questions or comments.

All the best,

Social Media

Facebook twitter.

Metaverse: A real change or just another research area?

• Discussion Paper
• Open access
• Published: 10 May 2024
• Volume 34 , article number  32 , ( 2024 )

Cite this article

You have full access to this open access article

• Christian Peukert 1 ,
• Hamed Qahri-Saremi 2 ,
• Ulrike Schultze 3 ,
• Jason B. Thatcher 4 ,
• Christy M. K. Cheung 5 ,
• Adeline Frenzel-Piasentin 6 ,
• Maike Greve 7 ,
• Christian Matt   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-9800-2335 8 ,
• Manuel Trenz 9 &
• Ofir Turel 10  

67 Accesses

Explore all metrics

The Metaverse, an evolving concept that fuses physical reality with digital virtuality, offers a dynamic environment for exploration. This paper reports the panel discussion on the Metaverse and its potential implications for individuals and research. This discussion was held at the Digitization of the Individual (DOTI) workshop at the International Conference on Information Systems in December 2022. Four scientists who have researched virtual reality, immersiveness, and corresponding user behavior were invited to the panel discussion. The panelists offered their perspectives on the unique characteristics of the Metaverse, how it differs from earlier digital worlds, and the implications that the Metaverse will bring for individuals. This paper provides an introduction to the emerging phenomenon of “Metaverse” and summarizes the discussion and expert perspectives on the topic. Furthermore, this paper links the discussion to the ongoing discourse in the literature, setting the stage for further investigations by providing explicit research avenues and questions.

Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

Introduction

Emerging as a pivotal driver of future digital interactions, the Metaverse represents a distinct convergence of virtual and augmented realities that is redefining the boundaries of individual experience and societal dynamics.

While the concept of the Metaverse remains dynamic, the prevailing understanding suggests its characterization as a post-reality world—a continuous and interconnected multi-user environment that blends the physical reality with the digital virtuality (Mystakidis, 2022 ). The Metaverse represents an extended reality (XR) that integrates the physical with the digital to different degrees, including virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), and augmented reality (AR) (Lee et al., 2021 ). This integration is facilitated by technologies and devices that enable users to engage in multisensory interactions, thus allowing them to interface with objects and entities through personalized avatars. Moreover, the Metaverse consists of interconnected social networks of immersive environments linked by multi-user platforms. Consequently, the Metaverse presents many challenges and opportunities for practitioners aiming to harness its potential (Elnaj, 2022 ) as well as researchers delving into its nuances (Dwivedi et al., 2022 ).

While the Metaverse as such is still evolving, it is used as a buzz phrase to attract users, companies, and investors (Dolata & Schwabe, 2023 ). Nonetheless, not all characteristics of the Metaverse are new. For years, research has been looking at related phenomena in virtual spaces to explain avatar-self relationships (e.g., Zhang et al., 2020 ), collaboration practices (e.g., Pinkwart & Olivier, 2009 ), cooperation and competition in virtual worlds (e.g., Weiss & Schiele, 2013 ), and user innovation (e.g., Chandra & Leenders, 2012 ). Initial research that directly investigates the Metaverse studies entry-level challenges (Xi et al., 2022 ), the influence of emotions on user interactions (Mandolfo et al., 2022 ), and affordance actualization in Metaverse gaming (Shin, 2022 ). The topic is also picked up in research perspectives which focus on emerging challenges, opportunities, and agendas for research, practice, and policy in marketing (Kim, 2021 ), information systems (Peukert et al., 2022 ), and multidisciplinary perspectives (Dwivedi et al., 2022 ). However, research is still in its infancy, terminology is disagreed upon, and understanding of the technology is controversial.

To explore and address these important contemporary issues, we convened a panel of four experts. Our goal was to discuss whether the Metaverse has the potential to significantly change the lives of individuals and what the information systems (IS) discipline and community can contribute. This discussion was part of the Digitization of the Individual (DOTI) workshop held in conjunction with the International Conference on Information Systems in December 2022 in Copenhagen. The Metaverse theme of this DOTI workshop was triggered by controversial discussions at previous workshops such as the panel discussion on Artificial Intelligence and Robots (Liang et al., 2021 ) as well as on the Dark Side of IS (Turel et al., 2019 ). The paper presentations during the workshop centered around a broad set of Metaverse issues including technological challenges, privacy, and user behavior and set the stage for a discussion among the experts on the panel facilitated by impulses from the experts in the audience.

The four panelists, in alphabetical order, were Christian Peukert, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology; Hamed Qahri-Saremi, Colorado State University; Ulrike Schultze, University of Groningen; and Jason B. Thatcher, Temple University. The panel was moderated by Adeline Frenzel-Piasentin, University of Augsburg.

During the workshop, the four panelists shared how their research experiences relate to the Metaverse, virtual reality, and user behavior and explained their motivations for focusing on these topics. They discussed the uniqueness, and implications of the Metaverse, before delving into the potential for IS research to contribute to the theoretical understanding and practical application of the Metaverse. Finally, the panelists outlined potential areas for future research, which we see as essential for stimulating the current discussions and providing guidance for researchers who wish to study the Metaverse.

Understanding the Metaverse

The status quo of research on the metaverse.

While the Metaverse is most prominently driven by practitioners and organizations such as Facebook, the buzz phrase finds increasing attention in research among various disciplines. Focusing on the IS discipline reveals that the Metaverse builds upon long-standing research interests in virtual worlds, laying a substantial foundation for new scholarly inquiry into this domain. For instance, platforms like Second Life, popular in the early 2000s, were the subject of extensive research (Chandra & Leenders, 2012 ; Schultze, 2014 ; Schultze & Orlikowski, 2010 ). Although technical advancements have significantly transformed contemporary virtual worlds (Peukert et al., 2022 ), certain research themes persist, such as exploring user identity through avatars (Schultze, 2010 ; Zhang et al., 2020 ), investigating user experience and design (Kohler et al., 2011 ; Nickerson et al., 2022 ; Seidel et al., 2022 ), and analyzing the digital ecosystem and platform dynamics (Mueller et al., 2011 ; Pohsner & Hanelt, 2023 ; Schöbel & Leimeister, 2023 ).

Recent literature reviews, commentaries, and conceptual papers on the Metaverse (e.g., Chen et al., 2023 ; Dwivedi et al., 2022 ; Lee et al., 2021 ; Peukert et al., 2022 ) provide comprehensive overviews of current and potential research directions and highlight the field’s nascent stage. For example, Dincelli and Yayla ( 2022 ) review the literature on immersive VR, as they claim that the main change is the degree of immersion, compared to previous research on digital virtual worlds. They identify two main research streams: (a) studies that focused on industry-specific applications and (b) the effect of immersive VR on individuals and groups. These papers further indicate the lack of consensus in its definition. This issue is exemplified by the works of Park and Kim ( 2022 ), who compare more than 54 different Metaverse definitions used in scholarly articles, and Zhou et al. ( 2023 ), who trace the evolution of its definition from a simple virtual world concept, via a specification of dimension involving AR, VR, life logging, and mirror worlds, to today’s current state with a remaining need for a common definition of the metaverse.

Overall, extant literature underscores the evolution of virtual worlds and the ongoing challenges in defining and understanding their scope. This evolving academic discourse sets the stage for further exploration through the lens of expert insights. To delve deeper into these themes and gain a contemporary perspective, the panel discussion was convened, featuring experts whose research intersects various facets of the Metaverse. The discussion began by inviting panelists to share how their research connects to the Metaverse concept. In this context, Jason and Hamed mentioned that they feel that the term “Metaverse,” even after reviewing its definitions in recent publications, is very fuzzy and poorly defined. This admission aligns with the previously discussed definitional ambiguity evident in the existing literature, highlighting the ongoing challenge of establishing a clear understanding of the Metaverse in academic circles.

Christian investigates foundational phenomena of the Metaverse by focusing on its “building blocks” by, for example, studying human behavior in VR. He explores how different degrees of immersion impact user behavior and the integration of various devices and modalities (e.g., Gnewuch et al., 2022 ). He investigates this in different domains, including the shopping context (e.g., Peukert et al., 2019 ), platform economy, or most recently also in the learning context.

In contrast, Hamed’s research centers on user behavior on digital platforms (e.g., Qahri-Saremi & Turel, 2020 ), social media platforms (e.g., Turel & Qahri-Saremi, 2016 ), and review platforms (e.g., Qahri-Saremi & Montazemi, 2023 ). Therefore, he sees the Metaverse as a new platform where he is still interested in researching how features and affordances impact user behavior. Like Christian, he particularly emphasizes that the concept of immersion and XR features differentiate the Metaverse from other platforms. Hamed aims to understand how the features that are unique to the Metaverse context influence user behavior.

Ulrike sets her focus on the role of technology within the context of the Metaverse. She draws comparisons between her previous studies of platforms like Second Life (Schultze, 2014 ) and the current landscape of the Metaverse. Her interest lies in understanding how technology shapes the Metaverse and its implications for user experiences, particularly in contrast to earlier platforms.

Lastly, Jason is interested in the concept of immediate feedback within the Metaverse. He discusses how the immersive nature of the Metaverse can change the way feedback is received. He emphasizes the need to redefine metrics and performance evaluation due to the real-time nature of interaction and feedback in the Metaverse.

The discussion of the panelists indicated that achieving a common and widely accepted definition of the Metaverse is challenged by its multidisciplinary nature, rapid technological advancements, and diverse applications, which contribute to conceptual ambiguity and evolution. The subjective nature of user experience, along with the broad economic and social implications, adds complexity. Moreover, global and cultural differences affect its interpretation, further complicating efforts to define it succinctly. The term “Metaverse” remains fuzzy due to these factors, reflecting the difficulty of crafting a definition that is both inclusive of its current and potential dimensions and specific enough to guide research and development effectively. This situation calls for a dynamic, collaborative approach to continuously refine and adapt the definition as the Metaverse evolves.

In summary, there is a consensus that the Metaverse, as Jason put it, “provides new ways of studying phenomena that we already study, but in a different context,” which is shaped by the immersive experience and the immediate feedback for users. This notion is also depicted in the academic discourse. For example, Dolata and Schwabe ( 2023 ) outline emerging research questions on the metaverse in the context of established IS research areas. Adding to this, the experts collectively underscore the significance of user behavior research, technological influence, and foundational features in shaping the emerging landscape of the Metaverse.

The uniqueness of the Metaverse

The consensus that the Metaverse represents a significant evolution from prior virtual environments, that emerges as a profoundly immersive and interconnected digital frontier, the experts discussed insights to delineate the unique characteristics that distinguish the Metaverse from its predecessors (e.g., other platforms or virtual worlds such as Second Life).

Unlike earlier isolated platforms, the Metaverse is envisioned as a network of virtual worlds that are deeply intertwined. As Christian highlighted, this new realm promises the ability for “seamless movement from one virtual world to another,” where users can transfer their experiences and assets with unprecedented fluidity due to interoperability. Moreover, this interconnected space heralds a new era of fusion between virtual and physical realities. In the Metaverse, digital presence blends with tangible existence, resulting in a richer, more immersive experience. Ulrike drew attention to the pivotal relationship between users and their avatars in this context, noting the need to explore “How can I relate to the avatar? Who am I as an avatar in this virtual setting?” This suggests a deeper psychological and existential engagement with virtual spaces, challenging the traditional concept of technology as a separate tool and making it a more integral part of an individual’s identity and experience.

The Metaverse is not only a revolution in terms of user experience but also stands to transform economic interactions. As Hamed pointed out, it introduces a novel economic dimension, characterized by transactions through cryptocurrencies and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), giving rise to what could be considered a “shadow economy.” This new form of economy within the Metaverse, powered by decentralized digital assets, represents a significant departure from previous virtual platforms and has the potential to influence global economic structures. However, the arrival of the Metaverse also comes with significant challenges, most notably regarding accessibility and societal impact. As Jason articulated, the Metaverse prompts urgent questions about inclusivity and equity—whether this burgeoning digital universe will be a space “for the privileged or for everyone” due to its high entry costs. The Metaverse thus challenges societies to address the digital divide and consider how this new space might either exacerbate existing inequalities or offer new pathways for more equitable global participation.

The discussion of the panelists on the uniqueness of the Metaverse indicated their diverse perspectives on the phenomenon. Christian holds a technical perspective, focusing on interoperability and the seamless transition between virtual environments within the Metaverse. In contrast, Ulrike and Jason offer social perspectives. Ulrike explores the integration of identity and the psychological relationship between users and their avatars, indicating a social and existential inquiry into how individuals relate to themselves and others in virtual spaces. Jason discusses inclusivity and the societal impact of the Metaverse, addressing concerns about equity and accessibility, which are inherently social issues. Further, Hamed’s perspective, while focusing on the economic aspects of the Metaverse, bridges both technical and social domains, highlighting the transformation of economic interactions through digital assets. However, his emphasis on cryptocurrencies and NFTs leans more toward the technical implications of these changes on societal structures.

In summary, the Metaverse uniquely allows for seamless, interconnected experiences across various virtual worlds, enabling users to maintain their assets and identities as they move between environments. The Metaverse may also introduce a new economic system potentially driven by cryptocurrencies and NFTs, blur the line between digital and physical reality, and challenge traditional concepts of self-perception and the human relationship with technology. However, high entry costs limit accessibility and raise the issue of inclusion. Table 1 summarizes the mentioned characteristics that have changed from “predecessor” virtual worlds to today’s Metaverse.

The impact of the Metaverse on the individual

While the discussion on the uniqueness of the Metaverse already slightly touched upon the impact on the individual, this is further discussed by the experts regarding its impact on individuals’ personal and professional lives. As an opener for this aspect, Jason noted that there is a significant gap between public perception and the actual concept of the Metaverse. He emphasized that the starting point is to “understand what people think the Metaverse is and how that meaning is being constructed.” He believed that the meaning of the Metaverse will shape the path dependencies of what we see as implications and opportunities for study. Contrasting this perspective, Ulrike argued that the focus should not be on defining the Metaverse but rather on its practical applications, suggesting that we need to “decompose the Metaverse into its applications and see how people enact it.” She called for a socio-material perspective (e.g., Orlikowski & Scott, 2008 ) depicting the Metaverse as a moving concept that consists of a confluence of experiential computing practices. Therefore, in her opinion, it will probably never have a stable meaning on which people will agree. Their arguments tangle back to the discourse in the literature on the misalignment in definition and understanding, which trigger various approaches to research the topic, such as multi- perspectives approach (Dwivedi et al., 2022 ), expert interviews (Lacity et al., 2023 ), and patent analysis (Pohsner & Hanelt, 2023 ) through various theoretical lenses (e.g., affordances (Dincelli & Yayla, 2022 ) or the sociotechnical perspective (Zhou et al., 2023 )).

The Metaverse holds transformative potential for individuals, as outlined by Hamed. He highlighted its capacity to significantly change work environments, create a new large-scale economy, and offer deeper social interactions. However, he also pointed to the darker sides of this technological frontier. One significant issue is the problem of misinformation in a world where reality can be constructed and reconstructed at will. Hamed raised the critical question, “What is the true information and what is the misinformation?” alongside expressing deep concerns over potential security and privacy issues, especially with the vast biometric data collection that the Metaverse could involve.

Once more, the issue of interoperability was highlighted by Christian. It is the capability of moving data, identity, and other aspects seamlessly from one platform to another, which Christian pointed out as a “key difference between what we have now and what the Metaverse will be.” Ulrike also returned to her previous point on the relationship between the user and the avatar. She added that identity is another intricate component in this new landscape. She delved into questions of identity within the Metaverse, pondering how individuals might choose to represent themselves in this expansive virtual space. She questioned, “How closely do people want to link their virtual identities to their real identities?” and boldly challenged the clear separation between virtual and real, positing that “the real is what you are doing right now, whether on- or offline. That is what is real.”

Jason introduced the concept of a “social portmanteau”—the baggage of social connections and relationships that a user develops on one platform. He raised the question regarding the implications of this social portmanteau as users move between different platforms in the Metaverse: “What happens to my social portmanteau and how does that portmanteau make it stickier not to move?”.

This conversation underscored the multifaceted impacts that the Metaverse may have on individuals, intertwining technology with our sense of self, our work, our connections with others, and our very understanding of reality itself, which will manifest itself in a spectrum of physical and virtual artifacts. As these consequences for the individual are based on the characteristics of the Metaverse, Table  1 indicates how the characteristics result in consequences for the individual.

Future research directions for IS scholars in the context of the Metaverse

Future directions for is research on the metaverse.

The panelists discussed whether and how traditional IS theories may apply to the Metaverse as a new, socially constructed, technology-enabled environment. The assumption of the rational actor maximizing utility, which is the underlying logic of many research studies, may not be applicable in this environment because there are many non-economic user motivations. The experts suggested that native IS theories need to be created to theorize this technology-infused environment. This can be done by combining social theories such as the structuration theory (Giddens, 1984 ), the practice theory (Bourdieu & Bourdieu, 1977 ), and Goffman’s interaction theories (Goffman, 1956 ). According to Ulrike, the holy grail of IS research is to develop mid-range theories that apply specifically to IT contexts. She emphasized the urgency for IS research to develop native theories that are more suited to the digital and experiential nature of the Metaverse. “Combining existing social theories with theories related to Metaverse-specific phenomena might be a fruitful way forward,” she advised. This would allow the IS discipline to make more insightful and context-relevant statements about technology-infused environments like the Metaverse.

The panelists also mentioned that social presence theory (Short et al., 1976 ) and the trust literature (Gefen et al., 2003 ; Luhmann, 1997 ) may need to be re-evaluated to see if the current research discourse provides enough understanding of highly immersive environments. Christian introduced the importance of reimagining how immersion and trust function in these new digital spaces by stating: “The ability to port avatars, digital inventory, etc. from A to B implies that we need people, companies, or operators to trust that what is ported from one platform to the other will really work well.”

Furthermore, Hamed and Ulrike delved into the philosophical implications of the Metaverse, particularly concerning the concepts of truth and reality. Hamed posed the question, “What is the truth in the Metaverse?” and highlighted the complexity of defining truth in such an expansive and mutable space. The coherence approach in the philosophy of truth may become dominant in the Metaverse, which could lead to polarization and different versions of truth. Ulrike proposed that “data creates reality,” rather than merely representing it, which suggests a performative view of reality that challenges existing philosophical constructs and that the Metaverse changes our assumptions about correspondence and representation of reality.

The panel also engaged in discussions about governance within the Metaverse, with Hamed raising questions about the responsibility and role of Metaverse platform owners, asking, “How are they able to govern and control the Metaverse given the plethora of behaviors that can emerge?” This conversation naturally put an emphasis on the importance of proactive design, as Jason urged the IS community to engage with the Metaverse in its formative stages, asking “Do we want to engage with the technology after it has been created, or do we want to help create the technology?” He encouraged a focus on the normative implications of design decisions.

The panel’s insights collectively call for a deeply philosophical reevaluation of how IS research approaches the complex, immersive, and socially constructed worlds of the Metaverse.

Emergent approaches to IS research in the Metaverse

While the previous discussion focuses on the Metaverse as the phenomenon of research, the panelists further discussed the opportunities and threats of conducting experimental studies within the Metaverse.

Christian opened the discourse by highlighting the unique opportunity “to use the Metaverse as an environment for experimental studies which may solve the trade-off conflict between ecological validity and experimental control,” assuming future technology’s ability to induce a highly convincing telepresence experience. He envisioned that the Metaverse could act as a “virtual lab,” offering an unprecedented combination of realistic, immersive environments, and precise experimental conditions. This could facilitate more scalable and globally accessible experiments, with results potentially aligning with the “ground truth” observed in the real world. However, the transferability of results from the Metaverse to the physical world is a contentious point. Ulrike pushed back on this optimistic view, arguing, “The leap to say that what we study in the virtual is reflective of and the results are transferable to the real, goes too far; it will always be questioned.” She suggested that even though the Metaverse offers a rich environment to study phenomena, it is fundamentally different from physical reality due to its distinct material and social configurations. The Metaverse, in her view, should be studied for its own sake, especially if it becomes a significant part of our daily lives.

The convergence of online and offline identities and experiences, and the increasingly blurred line between these realms, is another significant aspect. Jason articulated this perspective, arguing, “Our offline and online is an artificial distinction today… The Metaverse, as a social vision, is a place, where this convergence becomes even closer.” He contended that the Metaverse raises a new set of intricate and context-specific research questions, including issues around cyberbullying in highly immersive environments and the mental and emotional effects of long-term exposure to these spaces. Adding to the discussion, Hamed raised the issue of the rapid technological development of the Metaverse and the risks this poses for research. He warned, “If you use the current Metaverse technology and run an experiment in that environment, once the technology develops in a year or two, you will have to do the experiment all over again because you may get different results.” This draws attention to the inherently transient and evolving nature of the technologies, which challenges the stable conditions typically sought in experimental design.

Lastly, Jason introduced a broader concern regarding the tension between fast-to-market and slow-to-market research. As technology evolves at a swift pace, he suggests the need for agility in research outputs: “We need to accelerate our publishing cycle times if we want to be relevant and have an impact on practice.” At the same time, Jason called for deeper, reflective, and philosophically informed research to address fundamental issues tied to the Metaverse and argued for a scholarly culture that values both approaches equally.

The panelists uncovered a spectrum of perspectives and challenges surrounding experimental research in the Metaverse. While acknowledging the significant opportunities presented, they are united in their call for careful, thoughtful, and adaptable approaches to studying this fast-evolving digital frontier.

Challenges to address

This section revisits the panel discussion on the metaverse and highly immersive environments to connect the experts’ insights to the existing academic discourse on the metaverse. The focus is on the extent to which the current literature adequately captures the uniqueness of the metaverse and what future research can do beyond this. The panelists shed light on their own areas of focus in the discussion of the Metaverse and highly immersive environments. They provided their viewpoints on avenues for future research in this area and highlighted opportunities and challenges regarding research topics, methodologies, and philosophy. Building on the viewpoints of the experts, we distinguish six distinct research perspectives to explore the challenges around the Metaverse: the impact of the metaverse, technological considerations, theory-focused questions, philosophical perspectives, emerging concepts and constructs of interest, and methodological opportunities. The expert’s viewpoints, interwoven with the analysis of existing literature and the discussion around the panel, guided the formulation of research questions that aim to advance the scholarly discourse on the Metaverse.

The impact of the metaverse

The economic implications of the Metaverse, as discussed by Hamed, foreground the role of cryptocurrencies and NFTs, which are also concerns and observations in existing literature (Dowling, 2022 ; Urquhart, 2016 ). The shadow economy within the Metaverse, alongside the mainstream adoption of digital currencies, presents new challenges and opportunities for economic models. Hamed’s insights prompt an investigation into how these economic activities influence traditional financial systems and the broader socio-economic landscape. Complementing this, Jason’s focus on social implications, including the transformative potential of the Metaverse on communication, interaction, and societal norms, aligns with Schultze’s ( 2010 ) exploration of virtual worlds’ impact on social behaviors. Research questions emerging from this perspective address the balance between technological advancements and their social ramifications, probing the dual potential of the Metaverse to innovate and disrupt.

Technological considerations

Christian’s emphasis on interoperability and the seamless integration of virtual experiences with real-world applications highlights a critical area of technological inquiry within the Metaverse. This perspective resonates with Chen et al.’s ( 2023 ) discussion on the technical challenges of creating a unified Metaverse, including standardization and security challenges. The exploration of augmented and virtual reality technologies, as foundational elements of the Metaverse, necessitates a deeper understanding of their implications for user experience, privacy, and digital sovereignty.

Theory-focused questions

Ulrike’s advocacy for the development of mid-range, native IS theories that reflect the socio-material complexities of virtual identities and environments is crucial. Her viewpoint aligns with the theoretical exploration of how sociality is constructed in the Metaverse, the adaptation of theories from social psychology, and the reevaluation of traditional IS theories in light of immersive experiences. The questions around governance structures and the dynamic conception of identity within the Metaverse highlight the pressing need for theoretical frameworks that can navigate the nuanced realities of technology-infused environments. Also the fuzziness around the definition of the concept “Metaverse” is among the potential challenges that need to be addressed by research.

Philosophical perspectives

The Metaverse, as Hamed points out, challenges conventional notions of truth and reality, invoking a philosophical inquiry into how these concepts are constructed and perceived in digital contexts. This discussion intersects with the exploration of digital twins and their implications for our understanding of authenticity and replication in virtual spaces. The philosophical dimension of Metaverse research probes the ethical, existential, and epistemological questions raised by the creation and inhabitation of these comprehensive digital worlds.

Emerging concepts and constructs of interest

The emergence of new concepts and constructs, particularly those related to identity, community, and immersion, is central to understanding the Metaverse’s societal impact. Christian and Jason’s discussions highlight the importance of these constructs in shaping user experiences and expectations within virtual environments. This perspective encourages an examination of how digital identities are formed, managed, and perceived, drawing on (Schultze, 2010 , 2014 ) virtual identity and community.

Methodological opportunities

Finally, the Metaverse offers unique methodological opportunities for research, as noted by Christian and Jason. The potential to utilize the Metaverse as a “virtual lab” for experimental research opens new avenues for studying behavior, interaction, and technology adoption in controlled yet complex virtual settings. This approach aligns with the exploration of virtual environments for empirical research, suggesting the Metaverse can significantly contribute to our methodological repertoire, especially in fields that intersect with human–computer interaction, sociology, and economics.

Table 2 synthesizes these research perspectives and outlines specific future research questions that were identified during the discussions in and surrounding the workshop. They are not intended to be exhaustive but rather serve as inspiration for future research.

Concluding remarks

In conclusion, the evolving Metaverse landscape converges digital and physical realities, generating novel prospects and complexities for individuals, societies, and researchers. The insights shared by our expert panel underscore that the Metaverse transcends a mere technological concept, fundamentally altering how we perceive, engage with, and interpret the world. The panel’s discourse has thoroughly traversed the Metaverse’s facets, unveiling its distinct attributes, potential individual impacts, and burgeoning research avenues within the IS discipline.

Clearly, the panelists agree that the Metaverse holds significant importance, which beckons IS researchers to comprehend the synergy between humans and technology, potentially fostering substantial disruptions across personal, organizational, and societal spheres. Amidst this socio-technical evolution, the toolkit and methodologies of IS scholars bear the potential to both understand and shape the Metaverse’s course. Simultaneously, the discussions shed light on the need to critically discern between novel aspects and recurring themes in the Metaverse research.

The ideas shared by the panelists also point to different approaches to understanding the challenges and possibilities of the Metaverse. In particular, the panelists advocate for the inclusion of diverse philosophical underpinnings, multifaceted approaches to theory construction and validation, and a broad spectrum of methodological avenues in the study of immersive environments like the Metaverse. In conclusion, this synthesis of expert insights acts as a guide, directing researchers toward the multifaceted exploration of the ever-evolving Metaverse.

Bourdieu, P., & Bourdieu, P. (1977). Outline of a theory of practice (Nachdr.) . Cambridge Univ. Press.

Book   Google Scholar  

Chandra, Y., & Leenders, M. A. A. M. (2012). User innovation and entrepreneurship in the virtual world: A study of Second Life residents. Technovation, 32 (7–8), 464–476. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.technovation.2012.02.002

Article   Google Scholar  

Chen, H., Duan, H., Abdallah, M., Zhu, Y., Wen, Y., Saddik, A. E., & Cai, W. (2023). Web3 metaverse: State-of-the-art and vision. ACM Transactions on Multimedia Computing, Communications, and Applications. https://doi.org/10.1145/3630258

Dincelli, E., & Yayla, A. (2022). Immersive virtual reality in the age of the metaverse: A hybrid-narrative review based on the technology affordance perspective. The Journal of Strategic Information Systems, 31 (2), 101717. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsis.2022.101717

Dolata, M., & Schwabe, G. (2023). What is the metaverse and who seeks to define it? Mapping the site of social construction. Journal of Information Technology, 38 (3), 239–266. https://doi.org/10.1177/02683962231159927

Dowling, M. (2022). Fertile LAND: Pricing non-fungible tokens. Finance Research Letters, 44 , 102096. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.frl.2021.102096

Dwivedi, Y. K., Hughes, L., Baabdullah, A. M., Ribeiro-Navarrete, S., Giannakis, M., Al-Debei, M. M., Dennehy, D., Metri, B., Buhalis, D., Cheung, C. M. K., Conboy, K., Doyle, R., Dubey, R., Dutot, V., Felix, R., Goyal, D. P., Gustafsson, A., Hinsch, C., Jebabli, I., Janssen, M., Kim, Y.-G., Kim, J., Koos, S., Kreps, D., Kshetri, N., Kumar, V., Ooi, K.-B., Papagiannidis, S., Pappas, I. O., Polyviou, A., Park, S.-M., Pandey, N., Queiroz, M. M., Raman, R., Rauschnabel, P. A., Shirish, A., Sigala, M., Spanaki, K., Tan, G. W.-H., Tiwari, M. K., Viglia, G., & Wamba, S. F. (2022). Metaverse beyond the hype: Multidisciplinary perspectives on emerging challenges, opportunities, and agenda for research, practice and policy. International Journal of Information Management , 66 , 102542. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2022.102542

Elnaj, S. (2022). The challenges and opportunities with the metaverse . Forbes.  https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2022/05/17/the-challenges-and-opportunities-with-the-metaverse/ . Accessed 5 Sept 2024.

Gefen, D., Karahanna, E., & Straub, D. W. (2003). Trust and TAM in online shopping: An integrated model. MIS Quarterly, 27 (1), 51–90. https://doi.org/10.2307/30036519

Giddens, A. (1984). The constitution of society: Outline of the theory of structuration (First paperback edition) . University of California Press.

Google Scholar  

Gnewuch, U., Ruoff, M., Peukert, C., & Maedche, A. (2022). Multiexperience. Business & Information Systems Engineering, 64 (6), 813–823. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12599-022-00766-8

Goffman, E. (1956). The presentation of self in everyday life (1. Anchor Books ed., rev. ed). Anchor Books.

Kim, J. (2021). Advertising in the metaverse: Research agenda. Journal of Interactive Advertising, 21 (3), 141–144. https://doi.org/10.1080/15252019.2021.2001273

Kohler, T., Fueller, J., Matzler, K., Stieger, D., & Füller, J. (2011). Co-creation in virtual worlds: The design of the user experience. MIS Quarterly, 35 (3), 773–788. https://doi.org/10.2307/23042808

Lacity, M., Mullins, J. K., & Kuai, L. (2023). Evolution of the metaverse. MIS Quarterly Executive, 22 (2), 165–173. https://doi.org/10.17705/2msqe.00079

Lee, L.-H., Braud, T., Zhou, P., Wang, L., Xu, D., Lin, Z., Kumar, A., Bermejo, C., & Hui, P. (2021). All one needs to know about metaverse: A complete survey on technological singularity, virtual ecosystem, and research agenda . arXiv . http://arxiv.org/abs/2110.05352 . Accessed 5 Sept 2024.

Liang, T.-P., Robert, L., Sarker, S., Cheung, C. M. K., Matt, C., Trenz, M., & Turel, O. (2021). Artificial intelligence and robots in individuals’ lives: How to align technological possibilities and ethical issues. Internet Research, 31 (1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1108/INTR-11-2020-0668

Luhmann, N. (1997). Trust and power (C. Morgner & M. King, Eds.; H. Davies, J. Raffan, & K. Rooney, Trans.). Polity.

Mandolfo, M., Baisi, F., & Lamberti, L. (2022). How did you feel during the navigation? Influence of emotions on browsing time and interaction frequency in immersive virtual environments. Behaviour & Information Technology, 0 (0), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1080/0144929X.2022.2066570

Mueller, J., Hutter, K., Fueller, J., & Matzler, K. (2011). Virtual worlds as knowledge management platform – A practice-perspective. Information Systems Journal, 21 (6), 479–501. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2575.2010.00366.x

Mystakidis, S. (2022). Metaverse. Encyclopedia, 2 (1), 486–497. https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia2010031

Nickerson, J. V., Seidel, S., Yepes, G., & Berente, N. (2022). Design principles for coordination in the metaverse. Academy of Management Annual Meeting .

Orlikowski, W. J., & Scott, S. V. (2008). Sociomateriality: Challenging the separation of technology, work and organization. Academy of Management Annals, 2 (1), 433–474. https://doi.org/10.5465/19416520802211644

Park, S.-M., & Kim, Y.-G. (2022). A metaverse: Taxonomy, components, applications, and open challenges. IEEE Access, 10 , 4209–4251. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2021.3140175

Peukert, C., Pfeiffer, J., Meißner, M., Pfeiffer, T., & Weinhardt, C. (2019). Shopping in virtual reality stores: The influence of immersion on system adoption. Journal of Management Information Systems, 36 (3), 755–788. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421222.2019.1628889

Peukert, C., Weinhardt, C., Hinz, O., & van der Aalst, W. M. P. (2022). Metaverse: How to approach its challenges from a BISE perspective. Business & Information Systems Engineering . https://doi.org/10.1007/s12599-022-00765-9

Pinkwart, N., & Olivier, H. (2009). Cooperative virtual worlds—A viable eCollaboration pathway or merely a gaming trend? Electronic Markets, 19 (4), 233–236. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-009-0022-2

Pohsner, H., & Hanelt, A. (2023). Mapping the metaverse – Knowledge generation structures in a nascent ecosystem. International Conference on Information Systems .

Qahri-Saremi, H., & Montazemi, A. R. (2023). Negativity bias in the diagnosticity of online review content: The effects of consumers’ prior experience and need for cognition. European Journal of Information Systems, 32 (4), 717–734. https://doi.org/10.1080/0960085X.2022.2041372

Qahri-Saremi, H., & Turel, O. (2020). Ambivalence and coping responses in post-adoptive information systems use. Journal of Management Information Systems, 37 (3), 820–848. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421222.2020.1790193

Schöbel, S. M., & Leimeister, J. M. (2023). Metaverse platform ecosystems. Electronic Markets, 33 , 12. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-023-00623-w

Schultze, U. (2010). Embodiment and presence in virtual worlds: A review. Journal of Information Technology, 25 (4), 434–449. https://doi.org/10.1057/jit.2010.25

Schultze, U. (2014). Performing embodied identity in virtual worlds. European Journal of Information Systems, 23 (1), 84–95. https://doi.org/10.1057/ejis.2012.52

Schultze, U., & Orlikowski, W. J. (2010). Research commentary: Virtual worlds: A performative perspective on globally distributed, immersive work. Information Systems Research, 21 (4), 810–821. https://doi.org/10.1287/isre.1100.0321

Seidel, S., Berente, N., Nickerson, J., & Yepes, G. (2022). Designing the metaverse. Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences . https://doi.org/10.24251/HICSS.2022.811

Shin, D. (2022). The actualization of meta affordances: Conceptualizing affordance actualization in the metaverse games. Computers in Human Behavior, 133 , 107292. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2022.107292

Short, J., Williams, E., & Christie, B. (1976). The social psychology of telecommunications . London: Wiley.

Turel, O., & Qahri-Saremi, H. (2016). Problematic use of social networking sites: Antecedents and consequence from a dual-system theory perspective. Journal of Management Information Systems, 33 (4), 1087–1116. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421222.2016.1267529

Turel, O., Matt, C., Trenz, M., Cheung, C. M. K., D’Arcy, J., Qahri-Saremi, H., & Tarafdar, M. (2019). Panel report: The dark side of the digitization of the individual. Internet Research, 29 (2), 274–288. https://doi.org/10.1108/INTR-04-2019-541

Urquhart, A. (2016). The inefficiency of Bitcoin. Economics Letters, 148 , 80–82. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.econlet.2016.09.019

Weiss, T., & Schiele, S. (2013). Virtual worlds in competitive contexts: Analyzing eSports consumer needs. Electronic Markets, 23 (4), 307–316. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-013-0127-5

Xi, N., Chen, J., Gama, F., Riar, M., & Hamari, J. (2022). The challenges of entering the metaverse: An experiment on the effect of extended reality on workload. Information Systems Frontiers . https://doi.org/10.1007/s10796-022-10244-x

Zhang, Y. G., Dang, M. Y., & Chen, H. (2020). An explorative study on the virtual world: Investigating the avatar gender and avatar age differences in their social interactions for help-seeking. Information Systems Frontiers, 22 (4), 911–925. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10796-019-09904-2

Zhou, Z., Chen, Z., & Jin, X.-L. (2023). A review of the literature on the metaverse: Definition, technologies, and user behaviors. Internet Research , ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print). https://doi.org/10.1108/INTR-08-2022-0687

Download references

Open access funding provided by University of Bern

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Institute of Information Systems and Marketing (IISM), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Kaiserstrasse 89-93, 76133, Karlsruhe, Germany

Christian Peukert

College of Business, Colorado State University, 501 W. Laurel Street, 152 Rockwell Hall, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA

Hamed Qahri-Saremi

Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Groningen, Nettelbosje 2, 9747 AE, Groningen, Netherlands

Ulrike Schultze

Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado Boulder, 995 Regent Drive, 419 UCB, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA

Jason B. Thatcher

School of Business, Hong Kong Baptist University, Shaw Campus, 34 Renfrew Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Christy M. K. Cheung

Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Augsburg, Universitaetsstrasse 16, 86159, Augsburg, Germany

Adeline Frenzel-Piasentin

Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Goettingen, Humboldtallee 3, 37073, Goettingen, Germany

Maike Greve

Institute of Information Systems, University of Bern, Engehaldenstr. 8, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland

Christian Matt

Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Goettingen, Platz Der Goettinger Sieben 5, 37073, Goettingen, Germany

Manuel Trenz

School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Christian Matt .

Additional information

Publisher's note.

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Responsible Editors: Rainer Alt and Maria Madlberger

Discussion papers are a specific form of invited papers. Discussion papers undergo an editorial review process, which involves an Electronic Markets editor and one additional single-blind reviewer

Rights and permissions

Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article's Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article's Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ .

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Peukert, C., Qahri-Saremi, H., Schultze, U. et al. Metaverse: A real change or just another research area?. Electron Markets 34 , 32 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00711-5

Download citation

Received : 20 September 2023

Accepted : 09 April 2024

Published : 10 May 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s12525-024-00711-5

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

• Virtual reality
• Digitization of the Individual (DOTI)
• Research agenda

JEL Classification

• Find a journal
• Publish with us
• Track your research