Ronald L. Berry

Electronic Data Interchange: A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Key Usage Aspects Between U.S. and Taiwanese Firms

Abstract This study provides a comparison of cross-cultural differences in the use of EDI between 81 firms in the U.S. and 67 firms in Taiwan. Most of these firms were using traditional VAN mediated EDI, and had been influenced by some type of external pressure to use. The motivation for this study was to assess whether the Western model of EDI usage that most research is based on is applicable across cultures. Findings reveal that there are few differences between firms in the two countries with respect to type of benefits realized, compatibility of EDI with existing processes, and degree of integration of EDI in the firm or in the network of trading partners. However, ex post facto analysis provides further insight into the usage of EDI in both cultures.

Preparing End User Support Specialists

Abstract Specializations within the field of information systems (IS) have become common. End user support (EUS) is a growing area that requires further examination by academia and consideration as a new IS specialization. In this article, the authors examine two views of an IS course dealing with EUS. Each course went through a similar evolution, but faculty expertise prevailed in the final development of each course. Both academic programs use a traditional approach combining theory and student projects to simulate the duties required in user support. The evolution of both courses continues.

International Perspective: Knowledge About Information Technology—A Cross-Cultural Comparison

Abstract This study examined differences between U.S. and Taiwanese students in familiarity with and use of various types of information technology. The study also investigated the cross-cultural differences in sources used by members of each group to learn about information technology, and whether experience, required use in a classroom, and owning a PC affect familiarity/use and learning sources.