Beyond Technology Acceptance Models: A Case Of Collaborative Technology

Abstract

A central theme in information systems research is the study of user acceptance and use of information technology. Robust theories have been proposed and revised in attempts to enhance our understanding of the phenomenon of technology use. Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), theories drawing upon the classic Diffusion of Innovations theory (DoI) and more recently the Unified theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) attempted to explain the phenomenon using various influencing factors and facilitating conditions. This paper emphasizes the need to go beyond restrictive factors of such theories and fine tune such generic theories in the context of specific technologies and applications, using collaborative technology as a case in point. The paper proposes four constructs including information intensity of task, collaborative orientation, technology drive and performance pressures as factors influencing use of collaborative technology. Further, two constructs for measuring use of collaborative technology – scale and sophistication are presented. The paper describes possible measures of the various constructs and presents some preliminary conclusions from a set of exploratory cases. Some suggestions for