Paul H. Cheney

Organizational factors affecting the success of end-user computing

Abstract:End-user computing is one of the most significant phenomena to occur in the information systems industry in the last ten years [10, 39]. This paper attempts to identify those variables that affect the success or failure of end-user computing within an organization. The variables are classified as controllable, partially controllable, or uncontrollable. A conceptual scheme originally suggested by Ein-Dor and Segev [24] is adopted and applied to end-user computing. Previous research on end-user computing is reviewed and several propositions relating organizational variables to the success of end-user computing are suggested.

Training end users: an exploratory study

This article presents and empirically evaluates a conceptual model of how training can impact the acceptance of information systems within the organization. Specifically, the training of end users is explored via an extensive field study of 100 middle- and upper-level managers from 20 companies. The results indicate that (1) a positive relationship exists between the computer-related training an individual receives and his/her computer-related ability, and (2) a positive relationship exists between the computer-related ability of an end user and his/her acceptance of information systems products and technologies.

Information systems skill requirements: a survey

This study reports on some of the employment trends and skill requirements in the information systems area as seen by the information systems managers of 32 of the nations largest organizations. The data was gathered via personal interviews and questionnaires. We believe the results will be quite interesting in terms of both work force projections and the perceived job skills that are required for programmers, systems analysts, and data processing managers.

TELCOT: an application of information technology for competitive advantage in the cotton industry

This paper describes the strategic use of information technology by the Plains Cotton Cooperative Association (PCCA). TELCOT, a computer-based system developed by PCCA, provides cotton traders with functions much like those available to NYSE or AMEX traders. TELCOT transformed PCCA from a small cotton merchant to a major cotton broker. Handing 115,000 to 240,000 computer transactions per day, TELCOT provides over 20,000 cotton producers, 40 buyers, and 200 gin operators with an electronic marketing service that has helped PCCA grow from a

Getting the Most Out of Your First Computer System

50 million to a

Training, ability, and the acceptance of information technology: an empirical study of IS personnel and end users

500 million enterprise in just 15 years.

An analysis of MIS doctoral dissertations

Since the early 1970s there has been a tremendous growth in the use of mini-computers and micro-computers by small business. Tens of thousands of firms have acquired computing systems in an effort to improve their operations and better serve their customers. Unfortunately, in many cases, these systems have not worked as well as they should have. Most of the published literature concerning small business has been prescriptive in terms of describing how a firm should select, acquire, and implement a new computer system. Very little has been done of an empirical nature concerning the frequencies of success or failure or the reasons for success or failure of these systems. This paper describes a recent study which attempts to determine how successful these systems have been and further tries to identify some of the reasons why these systems have failed. Variables that were found to affect the successful implementation of computer systems fell into three categories: 1) the design of the software programs; 2) hardware problems; and 3) the implementation process. Each of these groups of factors will be discussed, in an effort to assist other first-time computer users in avoiding implementation problems.

Information systems research centers: an initial survey

This article validates a conceptual model of the relationship among training, ability, and acceptance of information technology within organizations. Previously developed to explain the relationship for end users, the model is tested for information systems personnel as well. To examine these variables (training, ability, and acceptance) and their interrelationships, an instrument was developed, pretested, and completed by 232 employees at eight different organizations. Based on the results of this study, the model is validated for both IS personnel and end users of information technology, indicating that positive relationships exist between (1) the IT-related training of an individual and his/her ability to use IT, (2) an individuals ability to use IT and his/her use of IT, and (3) an individuals ability to use IT and his/her satisfaction with IT. The implications and possibilities for further research are discussed.

Testing a causal model of end-user application effectiveness

The advancement of any field is accomplished largely by research directed at specific issues in that field. Research in management information systems (MIS) takes place, or is reported in (1) private studies that usually resuit in published articles, (2) doctoral dissertations, and (3) private or government funded research that may be reported in private publications, books, or articles. This paper reviews four MIS Ph.D. dissertation lists that were compiled by Scott Hamilton, Blake Ires, and Gordon Davis, covering the period 1972 through 1983 and reported in the MIS Quarterly. It describes the nature of the research conducted in the dissertation process, lists the fields and schools from which major work is being produced, and indicates some of the characteristics of those research efforts.

Concepts, Theory, and Techniques: FACTORS AFFECTING THE PERCEIVED UTILIZATION OF COMPUTER-BASED DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS IN THE OIL INDUSTRY

Abstract The concept of the Information Systems Research Center (ISRC) is not new, yet its purpose, structure and activities are not universally agreed upon. This paper compares ten centers in the U.S.A. as to their objectives, organizational structure, curriculum, current research areas, and activities. The ISRCs are then examined in an attempt to assess benefits and problems.