M. Gordon Hunter

The repertory grid technique: a method for the study of cognition in information systems

Recent studies have confirmed the importance of understanding the cognition of users and information systems (IS) professionals. These works agree that organizational cognition is far too critical to be ignored as it can impact on IS outcomes. While cognition has been considered in a variety of IS contexts, no specific methodology has dominated. A theory and method suitable to the study of cognition-defined as personal constructs that individuals use to understand IT in organizations-is Kellys (1955) personal construct theory and its cognitive mapping tool known as the repertory grid (RepGrid). This article expounds on the potential of this technique to IS researchers by considering the variety of ways the RepGrid may be employed. The flexibility of the RepGrid is illustrated by examining published studies in IS. The diagnostic qualities of the RepGrid and its mapping outcomes can be used for practical intervention at the individual and organizational levels.

Cross-Cultural Dimensions of Internet Portals

When new technologies become available and cultures adopt them, the result can be either convergence, cultures becoming more similar as a result, or divergence, when cultures adopt technology in different ways that maintain or even further accentuate their differences. An analysis of full‐service national Web portals from different countries, typically offering a search engine, directories of links on a set of selected topics, news items (including weather, sports, entertainment, and stock market results), advertisements and shopping, and free e‐mail, shows evidence of both trends. While most national portals closely resemble the basic structure of Yahoo!, the original free full‐service portal, there are also differences in appearance and features offered that can be attributed to cultural variations based on Hofstede’s framework.

The use of RepGrids to gather interview data about information systems analysts

In view of suggestions for the application of more qualitative and interpretive approaches to information systems research, this article describes the use of RepGrids to gather interview data about information systems analysts. In the light of the objectives of a specific research project, various techniques are considered. Analysis of the techniques in relation to specific research project objectives leads to the adoption of a form of Kellys RepGrid technique for the specific project described here. A detailed description is included about how RepGrids were applied in this instance. It is shown that RepGrids are appropriate for gathering qualitative interview data. The technique provides structure to a ‘one‐to‐one’ interview. But, at the same time, RepGrids allow sufficient flexibility for the research participants to be able to express their own interpretation about a particular topic. Further, because the content of the data is determined by the research participant researcher bias is reduced. The article concludes by suggesting that the RepGrid technique supports the generation of rich in‐depth data and is a reliable research technique for gathering qualitative data about information systems analysts.

Information Systems Effectiveness in Small Businesses: Extending a Singaporean Model in Canada

This study examines the applicability of the Thong, Yap, and Raman (1996) model of information systems (IS) effectiveness tested among Singaporean small businesses in a Canadian context. The model evaluates the importance of managerial support and external expertise (vendors and consultants) for IS effectiveness. This study extends the Thong et al. model by adding an intention of expansion construct. The sample included 105 small business users of IS in a small city in western Canada. The results show that both managerial and vendor support are essential for effective IS in Canadian small businesses, and supported part of the relations between IS effectiveness and intention of expansion. Overall, the results suggest that managers should engage quality vendors to obtain IS that contribute to the specific goals of the small business. The results of the Canadian study were, for the most part, similar to the results reported in the Singaporean study; however, a few notable differences appear to exist.

A cross-cultural comparison of ‘excellent’ systems analysts

Abstract. As business becomes established with a more international focus, there is a growing globalization of the information systems (IS) function. The need for compatible standards and procedures within these international networks means that the systems analyst will play a key role in this globalization process. It is, therefore, considered timely that there is a developing body of research into the effects of cultural differences on the design and development of IS. This article reports research into the way in which ‘excellent’ systems analysts are perceived in Canada and Singapore. The research method adopted the RepGrid technique from Kellys Theory of Personal Constructs, which served as the vehicle to facilitate the elicitation of participant comments. Seventeen interviews were conducted in Singapore compared with 53 in Canada. The results suggest that, in terms of the overall approach and priorities that systems analysts place on their work, there is evidence of a commonality, which unites the profession in these two countries. This may be evidence of convergence, which occurs as the result of common education, training and socialization of new entrants into the international occupational community of systems analysts. However, there is also strong evidence of divergence between these two countries based on the different emphasis on the way in which systems analysts will play their roles in each country. As a reflection of the culture of each society, the Singaporean systems analysts are more likely to rely on expertise to influence clients, whereas the Canadian systems analysts rely more on encouraging the client to participate in the design effort.

A strategy for identifying ‘excellent’ systems analysts

Abstract One of the key issues confronting information systems (IS) executives relates to the effectiveness and efficiency of their staff in actually implementing their organizations IS strategies. As a result of this and in the light of the current development and maintenance backlog problem and a desire to increase systems analyst productivity, a research project was initiated to identify the qualities of ‘excellent’ systems analysts. The project included 53 research participants from two companies representing five groups of individuals, or audiences, who interact with systems analysts. The data were gathered using Kellys RepGrid technique and represent audience perceptions of what constitutes an ‘excellent’ systems analyst. Overall, the more important aspects that emerged from the data include communicate, attitude, knowledge, investigate, and experience. The detailed definitions of these aspects, as determined from the research data, varied among the audiences and reflected audience objectives. For instance, user audiences emphasized content-related aspects, such as knowledge. Alternatively, systems analysts and their supervisors differentiated on process-related aspects, such as investigate. Each audience has its own interpretation of the relative importance of what constitutes an ‘excellent’ systems analyst. Based on these research findings, the companies involved in the research project have revised their approach to hiring and training systems analysts.

Contemporary chief information officers : management experiences

Compiles information and experiences from CIOs from all over the world. As senior management address the importance of information technology to the functioning of an organization the formally recognized role performed by a CIO emerges, which is contingent upon many factors.

Selected Readings on Strategic Information Systems

Education and research in the field of strategic information technology can prove problematic without the proper resources and tools on the most relevant issues, trends, and advancements. Selected Readings on Strategic Information Systems supplements course instruction and student research with quality chapters focused on key issues concerning information technology in support of the strategic management of organizations. Containing over 30 chapters from authors across the globe, these selected readings in areas such as decision science, enterprise resource planning, and knowledge management depict the most relevant and important areas of classroom discussion within the categories of Fundamental Concepts and Theories; Development and Design Methodologies; Tools and Technologies; Application and Utilization; Critical Issues; and Emerging Trends.

Voluntary Turnover of Information Systems Professionals: A Cross-Cultural Investigation

This investigation examines the motivating factors associated with voluntary turnover decisions of information systems (IS) professionals within the context of two different cultures—Singapore and New Zealand. The narrative inquiry approach was employed to interview 35 IS professionals. Ninety-seven turnover episodes were identified, including 42 in Singapore and 55 in New Zealand. The findings indicate that there exist universal turnover factors which are culturally independent. However, there are also factors that are culturally sensitive, which should be considered by managers when dealing with an international workforce.

Experiences Conducting Cross-Cultural Research

When conducting cross-cultural investigations, it is incumbent upon the information systems researcher to be prepared to reflect upon the differences between the frameworks of the researcher and the research participants. Three cross-cultural projects are discussed in this article. The first project, investigating systems analysts, employs the Repertory Grid from Personal Construct Theory (Kelly, 1955, 1963). The second and third projects both employ Narrative Inquiry (Bruner, 1990). The second project investigates the use of information systems by small business and relies upon multiple regional researchers. The third project, which is currently ongoing, investigates the emerging role of chief information officers and is a single researcher venture. These projects have contributed to the information systems field of study and are presented here to provide researchers with ideas for further qualitative cross-cultural investigations.