bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-Collaboration Systems
Authors: Riemer Kai
Published: February 2011

E-Collaboration systems have become the backbone infrastructure to support virtual work in and across organizations. Fuelled by recent technology trends the market today offers an abundance of systems that often support a wide range of communication and collaboration features. In this article I present a study that aims to shed light on the market for E-Collaboration systems by structuring the range of available systems into meaningful classes. To this end, a sample of 94 E-Collaboration systems were characterized using a classification approach. A cluster analysis led to the identification of five system classes and a range of sub classes. I describe the system classes and discuss trends of systems integration and convergence. The results should be equally helpful for researchers who deal with E-Collaboration systems as their objects of interest, as well as for business executives, who need to gather information to support buying decisions.
Using WarpPLS in E-collaboration Studies
Authors: Kock Ned
Published: February 2011

Most relationships between variables describing natural and behavioral phenomena are nonlinear, with U-curve and S-curve relationships being particularly common. Yet, structural equation modeling software tools do not estimate coefficients of association taking nonlinear relationships between latent variables into consideration. This can lead to misleading results, particularly in multivariate and complex phenomena like those related to e-collaboration. One notable exception is WarpPLS (available from: warppls.com), a new structural equation modeling software currently available in its first release. The discussion presented in this paper contributes to the literature on e-collaboration research methods by providing a description of the main features of WarpPLS in the context of an e-collaboration study. The focus of this discussion is on the software’s features and their use and not on e-collaboration study itself. Particular emphasis is placed on the five steps through which a structural equation modeling analysis is conducted through WarpPLS.
Scaffolding Solutions to Business Problems
Authors: Remidez Herbert , Stam Antonie , Laffey James M.
Published: February 2011

Teams whose interactions are mediated entirely via internet-based communication, virtual teams, are becoming commonplace in businesses. Although trust has been identified as key for virtual teams to work effectively, researchers have not developed scalable methods that consistently promote trust. This study examines the formation of trust perceptions, which is inherently a learning process. Strategies employed to promote more traditional definitions of learning can be used to promote trust development. In this paper, the authors investigate how a strategy of modifying the design of the communication system for virtual teams can be use to promote perceptions related to trust. The authors conduct an experiment to examine the impact of a template-driven messaging system to scaffold the development of the three antecedents of trust—integrity, benevolence, and ability—within a virtual team environment and communication activity. The study shows that participants who used the template-driven messaging system perceived their team members as having a higher level of ability than those who used the regular system. Moreover, users of the template-driven environment authored more messages and read a greater percentage of the messages, suggesting that messaging scaffolds were successful in improving the flow of information and fostering an environment favorable to trust development.
Mapping the Need for Mobile Collaboration Technologies
Authors: Sarker Saonee , Campbell Damon E. , Ondrus Jan , Valacich Joseph S.
Published: February 2011

With the growing popularity of mobile technologies and the increasing use of groups within organizations, it is important to understand the collaboration contexts where mobile collaboration technologies (MCTs) are essential. This is especially critical given the high cost associated with the acquisition and implementation of MCTs and the need to make an informed decision regarding the appropriateness of MCTs. In this paper, the authors address this issue by first drawing on real life-based collaboration scenarios and examining the technology requirements of groups; second, comparing the features offered by MCTs with those of FTF and two types of CMCTs; third, proposing a collaboration environment-technology fit perspective in realizing optimal usage of a collaboration technology; and fourth, creating the Group Collaboration Technology Repertoire Grid, which maps the “ideal” collaboration technology(s) repertoire for each type of collaboration environment. The grid highlights the collaboration environments that would need MCTs and provides managers or organizational group leaders the ability to map their collaboration environments into a specific category and thus more easily decide on the particular collaboration technology repertoire that would be most beneficial.
Improved Information Connectivity and Visibility throughout the Global Supply Base
Authors: Wilson William , Duffy Kevin
Published: February 2011

Although the literature frequently examines achieving an integrated supply chain and participating in information sharing with supply chain partners, there is little guidance given to firms on how to progress to a state where these goals can become reality. This paper examines the struggles of one firm in moving toward information sharing with its suppliers and its hopes of achieving an integrated supply chain. This paper reveals lessons learned from the difficulties the firm encountered during the integration process. Despite putting an information system in place, the company discovered that people issues matter as much, if not more, than technology issues.
An E-Commerce Process Model
Authors: Paper David , Pedersen Eric , Mulbery Keith
Published: February 2011

The failure of dot-coms is a staggering 75% in the first two years. Many of these failures were small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). One of the most commonly cited reasons for failure has been lack of a workable strategic business model to guide e-commerce (electronic commerce) efforts. We began this study because we wanted to explore if successful e-commerce SMEs use a guiding strategic process model, and if they do, ask them to articulate the model components. We chose a qualitative research method to obtain a rich description of the e-commerce process. The interview pool consisted of 15 interviews with established SME e-commerce entrepreneurs. From deep analysis of the data, a set of e-commerce process components and interrelationships between those components emerged from the data. We then synthesized (from the rich description) a model of the e-commerce process.
Psychographic Profiling of the Online Shopper
Authors: Vijayasarathy Leo R.
Published: February 2011

Shopping orientations are psychographic measures that have been used to discern consumers’ preferences for shopping media. In this study, shopping orientations and their relationship with consumers’ actual use and intention to use online shopping are examined. Data for the study was collected through a survey that was mailed to a stratified sample of 800 consumers. Usable responses were received from 281 survey participants, who were classified into three shopping segments — home, community, and apathetic — based on their shopping orientations. The three shopping segments were found to differ on online shopping measures. Specifically, the home shopping segment was found to be positively associated with online shopping in contrast to the community and apathetic shopping segments. Further analysis revealed that there were no significant associations between shopping segments and commonly used demographic variables including gender, age, income, and education. Implications of these findings are discussed along with suggestions for future research.
A Heuristic Model to Implement Government-to-Government Projects
Authors: Joia Luiz A.
Published: February 2011

Electronic government has proven a watershed in the domain of public administration, despite being difficult to pin down precisely. Indeed, the government-to-government arena is one of the least studied aspects of this newly established field of knowledge. This paper aims to present a heuristic model to implement government-to-government endeavors effectively. The framework presented in this article was largely drawn from an actual government-to-government case study successfully implemented in Brazil. From the analysis of this explanatory case study involving the Brazilian Central Bank and the Brazilian Justice Department, some key success factors were singled out, as well as the major hurdles to be overcome and causes thereof. These findings led the researcher to propose a heuristic framework not only to explain the conclusions drawn from the case study presented, but also to help researchers, practitioners and policy-makers to deploy government-to-government projects adequately.
The Role of Strategic Alliances in the Ongoing Use of Electronic Commerce Technology in Regional Small Business
Authors: MacGregor Robert C.
Published: February 2011

A number of recent studies have suggested that for small businesses to maximise the benefits and minimise difficulties when adopting electronic commerce, they should be involved in some form of strategic alliance (network) with other small firms. This study compares the benefits gained and the difficulties encountered by SMEs that were part of a strategic alliance and those that were not. The results show that while difficulties are minimised by involvement in a strategic alliance, there are no significant differences in the benefits gained.
Collaborative E-Business Planning
Authors: Foster Jonathan , Lin Angela
Published: February 2011

This paper presents an evaluation of a collaborative e-business planning assignment implemented on two e-business and e-commerce modules: an undergraduate Information Management in the Digital Economy module and a postgraduate E-Business and E-Commerce module. The modules were delivered to students of information management and information systems. The paper outlines the general design of the modules, and a specific assessment in the form of a collaborative e-business planning assignment is presented. An evaluation of this assignment is presented, based on the findings of a survey instrument distributed to the students at the end of the module. Data were collected on students’ domain knowledge and transferable skills acquired as a result of undertaking the task. Analysis of the data suggests that the task was an effective learning tool for the students in acquiring domain knowledge and transferable skills appropriate to learning about, and for the practice of, e-business and e-commerce. Differences in the type and level of transferable skills acquired by undergraduates and postgraduates are identified. The implications of these findings for further face-to-face and Web-based education in e-business and e-commerce are addressed
Attitude Toward E-Commerce and Education
Authors: Gunasekaran Angappa , Ngai E.W.T.
Published: February 2011

With the popularity of the Internet, e-commerce has become increasingly appealing to society. In this paper, we study the use of the Internet by students and their attitudes toward e-commerce. Such a study will present a profile of how educated groups use the Internet and for what purposes. Also, this study aims to investigate to what extent students use the Internet for learning and e-commerce education. An empirical analysis with the help of data collected by means of a questionnaire filled in by students in Hong Kong is conducted. The results of the study can be generalized to an extent for the general public where differences in their perceptions do not exist due to their backgrounds and attitudes toward e-commerce and education. Finally, a framework has been presented to improve the application of the Internet and attitudes toward e-commerce and education.
An Experimental Study of the Effects of Promotional Techniques in Web-Based Commerce
Authors: Gao Yuan , Koufaris Marios , Ducoffe Robert H.
Published: February 2011

This paper explores the effects of two specific message delivery techniques frequently adopted by online stores: continuously animated site banners and unexpected pop-up ads. Results from 128 surveys collected in a 2x2 factorial design showed that each of the two techniques had a significant effect on perceived irritation in the hypothesized direction. This paper also confirmed that perceived irritation has a significant negative relationship with a visitor’s attitude toward the website. This study fills a vacuum in academic research with respect to the negative effects of Web advertising and advises caution in the deployment of certain techniques. This paper advocates future research that links format attributes and presentation techniques to attitudinal consequences in Web advertising, as well as in the design of an entire website.
The Strategic Importance of E-Commerce in Modern Supply Chain
Authors: Gibson Peter R. , Edwards Janet
Published: February 2011

Considering some aspects of the motor industry as an example, this paper outlines strategic opportunities for e-commerce-enabled supply chains and, hence, greatly improved responses to customers. The authors demonstrate that there will be resulting strategic advantage for firms that become enabled to take a further step of making changes to their much wider manufacturing process philosophies. The developed knowledge associated with these changes will not be easily copied by competitors, and as such, provides the basis for a sustainable competitive advantage for those firms that are able to lead the way with the enabling technology of e-commerce in supply chains. However, leadership and change management are identified as key issues requiring further investigation.
A Case Study on a Security Maturity Assessment of a Business-to-Business Electronic Commerce Organization
Authors: Becker Shirley A. , Berkemeyer Anthony
Published: February 2011

GlobalUBid.com is a B2B (business-to-business) e-commerce company offering excess and obsolete inventory to online customers. GlobalUBid is rapidly expanding into the global online marketplace; but recently, its Web site crashed due to a denial-of-service (DOS) attack. A lack of security awareness at an organizational level has left GlobalUBid’s online system vulnerable to internal and external attacks. Though informal security policies are in place, many employees are not aware of them nor are they enforced on a regular basis. Unsecured aspects of the physical workplace make the organization vulnerable to disgruntled employees, hackers, and unscrupulous competition. GlobalUBid has hired URSecure consultants to conduct a security assessment in uncovering internal and external vulnerabilities. URSecure has made recommendations for improved security, though the organization must develop most of the implementation details. GlobalUBid management recognizes the need for improved security, though there is a concern about the financial implications of implementing a security plan.
A Customer Relationship Management System to Target Customers at Cisco
Authors: Bhaskar Rahul
Published: February 2011

This case describes the implementation of an Internet empowered Customer Relationship Management (CRM) at Cisco Systems Inc. After describing the organizational background of Cisco, the case takes the student into the issues that the executives faced after the market crash in 2001. John Chambers, Cisco CEO, and his team decided to strengthen Cisco’s relationship with the customers so that the company could emerge stronger when the markets recovered. Questions are raised as to the implementation of technology and supporting processes in a company that traditionally had not considered CRM as its core marketing strategy.
Challenges of Transforming a Traditional Brick-and-Mortar Store into a Bricks-and-Clicks Model
Authors: Clarke III Irvine , Flaherty Theresa B.
Published: February 2011

This article addresses some of the unique challenges faced as small businesses try to establish a presence in the fiercely competitive online marketplace. Specifically, a small fragrance/aromatherapy boutique (named The Scent Network) is the organization examined. This brick-and-mortar retailer evolved into a bricks-and-clicks model while the business owner had little IT experience, a small budget, and little time to devote to the Web site. More failures were experienced than successes, resulting in numerous “lessons learned”. By sharing these experiences, it is hoped that small business owners find success as a “dot.com” and avoid becoming a “dot.gone”.
A Proposed Smart-Card Solution for Australian Health Services
Authors: Fowler Danielle , Swatman Paul , Castleman Tanya
Published: February 2011

This case study describes the experience of a state government health department in evaluating the use of smart card technology to redesign health benefits programs for the disabled in Australia. The social and political context of the system is explained in detail, and the potential benefits and risks accruing to the government, health care intermediaries and the community are examined.
Measuring the Value of Refining a Web Presence
Authors: Benbunan-Fich Raquel , Fich Eliezer M.
Published: February 2011

The redesign of a Web presence can be classified as both an IT investment and an e-commerce initiative. Although the empirical literature provides evidence that financial markets are sensitive to e-commerce announcements, it is still unknown what types of announcements affect the value of firms. We use the event study methodology on a sample of Web site redesigns from 1995 to 1999 to investigate the types of commercial organizations that announce changes to their Web presence, and to study whether such redesign initiatives affect the value of publicly traded firms. Our findings indicate that, on average, refining a Web presence does not produce significant firm valuation adjustments. However, cross-sectional analyses reveal that Web site redesign increases the value of service companies.
E-Books in Higher Education
Authors: Shiratuddin Norshuhada
Published: February 2011

This article describes an ongoing project on the use of electronic books (e-books) in a higher institution and starts with a discussion on the diversity of e-book definitions to address misconception of its concept. Then, the advantages and associated technology such as hardware, software, formats, and standards are detailed. Comparisons between formats, a discussion on where e-books can be acquired and purchased, the electronic publishing process, e-book compilers, and personalized e-books are also explained. The final part of this article highlights the idea of marketing e-books electronically to improve accessibility and also assist lecturers to market their publications. In addition, the results of investigating buyers’ views are discussed briefly where a formula for pricing e-books based on student attitudes is also proposed.
Enhancing Customer Service Operations in E-Business
Authors: Barnes David , Halloway R.
Published: February 2011

In today’s increasingly competitive markets, greater emphasis is being placed on customer service as a means of achieving competitive advantage. Many organizations believe that e-business can provide opportunities to improve customer service operations by enabling them to get closer to the customer and enhance the organization-to-customer contact experience. However, use of the Internet fundamentally changes the nature of the customer contact experience. This article investigates this phenomenon from an operations management perspective, by examining the customer service encounter during the business processes of ordering and delivering in e-business. Empirical results from case research investigating eight companies that use e-business in their customer service operations are reported and discussed. The article concludes that unless the emotional aspects of customer service are considered alongside the functional, then barriers to enhanced customer service in e-business will not be overcome.
Viewing E-Learning Productivity from the Perspective of Habermas' Cognitive Interests Theory
Authors: Huynh Minh Q.
Published: February 2011

In the throes of an educational transformation from a print culture to a digitized culture, educators face an important challenge of how to define e-learning productivity. This article reviews the meanings of learning productivity from the selective literature and points out the need to conceptualize learning productivity in an e-learning environment. It draws on Habermas’ Cognitive Interests Theory as the conceptual foundation. The proposed framework for e-learning productivity describes three distinct orientations: instrumental, communicative, and emancipatory. The common notion of e-learning productivity often focuses mainly on instrumental objectives that are measured in terms of higher achievement, better test scores, more satisfaction, less cost, and so forth. Yet, this article argues that the notion of e-learning productivity should also encompass the aspects of reaching common understanding, building team consensus, and achieving critical reflection, self-actualization, and emancipation from constraints, because all of these are relevant aspects in today’s technologically rich learning environment.
Socialising the Digital Divide
Authors: Genus Audley , Nor Mohd AliMohamad
Published: February 2011

The digital divide is a phenomenon associated with disparities between groups and societies in the adoption and diffusion of electronic information and communications technologies (ICTs) and e-business practice. The article argues that, in rhetoric at least, the innovation, adoption, and diffusion of ICTs bear the hallmark of technological determinism (i.e., that of a technical imperative) in which social, economic, and political factors are underplayed. By way of contrast, the article considers the merit of a social shaping approach to analysing innovation in ICTs, to assess the prospects for ameliorating the digital divide between developed and developing countries and for stimulating economic development in the latter through the promotion of e-business. The article suggests how future research on the social shaping of ICTs, e-business, and the digital divide between developed and developing nations can meet the challenges discussed herein.
Factors Influencing the Extent of Deployment of Electronic Commerce for Small-and Medium Sized Enterprises
Authors: Chong Sandy , Pervan Graham
Published: February 2011

This study surveys the perceptions and experiences of Australian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the implementation of Internet-based Electronic Commerce (EC) as seen from the perspective of the extent of deployment. With a sample of 115 small businesses in Australia, this article uses regression modelling to explore and establish the factors that are related to the extent of deployment in EC. A multiple regression analysis shows that seven factors: perceived relative advantage, trialability, observability, variety of information sources, communication amount, competitive pressure, and non-trading institutional influences, significantly influence the extent of EC deployment by SMEs in Australia. The managerial implications are discussed.
The Value of Search Engine Optimization
Authors: Malaga Ross A.
Published: February 2011

AbstrAct A Web site that wants to increase its number of visitors can pay for search engine ads or attempt to improve its natural search engine ranking. Nobody really knows, which, if either, of these methods provides a positive return on investment (ROI). A search engine optimization (SEO) project was undertaken at a new e-commerce site. The site’s search engine rankings and traffic were measured after each phase in the project. The results indicate that SEO is an effective method for improving search engine rankings and site traffic. In addition, the costs and benefits of the SEO project are compared with a pay-per-click (PPC) search marketing campaign. The SEO project proved more cost effective than the PPC campaign.
An Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivation-Based Model for Measuring Consumer Shopping Oriented Web Site Success
Authors: Garrity Edward J. , O’Donnell Joseph B. , Kim Yong Jin , Sanders G. Lawrence
Published: February 2011

This article develops a new model of Web IS success that takes into account both intrinsic and extrinsic motivating factors. The proposed model begins with the Garrity and Sanders (1998) model of technologic acceptance and develops an extended nomological network of success factors that draws on motivation and flow theory.
Consumer-to-Consumer Electronic Commerce
Authors: Jones Kiku , Leonard Lori N.K.
Published: February 2011

Consumer-to-consumer (C2C) e-commerce is a growing area of e-commerce. However, according to a meta-analysis of critical themes of e-commerce, C2C e-commerce was only represented in the area of online auctions (Wareham, Zheng, & Straub, 2005). C2C e-commerce can encompass much more than just auctions. The question then becomes, “is C2C e-commerce a different research area that deserves its own stream of research?” This study adapts constructs from a business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce study of satisfaction (Devaraj, Fan, & Kohli, 2002) to determine what, if any, the differences are in the C2C e-commerce arena. The constructs include elements of the technology acceptance model (TAM), which includes perceived ease of use and usefulness; transaction cost analysis (TCA), which includes uncertainty, asset specificity, and time; and service quality (SERVQUAL), which includes reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. Participants in the study answered questions regarding these various constructs in relation to their experiences with C2C e-commerce. The findings indicate that TAM, TCA, and SERVQUAL all impact satisfaction in C2C e-commerce. Reliability and responsiveness (areas of service quality) were found to influence C2C e-commerce satisfaction, where as they were not found to be an influence in the B2C study. These findings warrant further research in the C2C e-commerce arena. The study provides implications for future research and practice.
Evolution of Web-Based Shopping Systems
Authors: Kim Changsu , Galliers Robert D. , Yang Kyung Hoon , Kim Jaekyung
Published: February 2011

This article offers a theoretical analysis of evolutionary processes in WBSS strategies. For that purpose, we propose a research model that shows strategy patterns. Based upon the model, we identified several types of strategies. In our research model, WBSS are classified into four types: (1) general-direct-sales (GDS); (2) general-intermediary-sales (GIS); (3) specialized-direct-sales (SDS); and (4) specialized-intermediary- sales (SIS). On the basis of these four categories of WBSS, we analyze the characteristics of WBSS and suggest five evolution strategies for WBSS, which have implications for both theory and practice. Amazon.com’s strategic movements, such as product line expansion through alliance and acquisition, provide an exemplary case of the evolution of WBSS strategy. We expect that this research will serve as a guide for Internet businesses and as a catalyst for new research agendas relevant to Web-based shopping and electronic commerce.
Improving M-Commerce Services Effectiveness with the Use of User-Centric Content Delivery
Authors: Germanakos Panagiotis , Tsianos Nikos , Lekkas Zacharias , Mourlas Constantinos , Samaras George
Published: February 2011

Advances in wireless communications and information technology have made the Mobile Web a reality. The Mobile Web is the response to the need for anytime, anywhere access to information and services. Many wireless applications have already been deployed and are available to customers via their mobile phones and wirelessly-connected PDAs. However, as communications and other IT usage becomes an integral part of many people’s lives and the available products and services become more varied and capable, users expect to be able to personalize a service to meet their individual needs and preferences. The involved sectors have to meet these challenges by reengineering their front-end and back-end office. This article will examine the interaction requirements regarding a friendlier, personalized and more effective multi-channel services environment. It will present the mobility challenges and constraints implemented into the business sector, investigating the current m-commerce situation and the extended user characteristics presenting a high level user-centric m-commerce architecture.
Open Middleware Architecture for the LBS Domain
Authors: Priggouris Ioannis , Spanoudakis Dimitris , Spanoudakis Manos , Hadjiefthymiades Stathes
Published: February 2011

The combination of position fixing mechanisms with location-dependent, geographical information can offer truly customized personal communication services through the mobile phone or other types of devices. Prompted by the avalanche of technology advances in the aforementioned areas, in this article we present a generic framework for delivering location-based services (LBS). The framework is capable of providing the full functionality required for delivering LBS, starting from the specification of the service, and covering issues like the deployment and maintenance of services, the service invocation and the final delivery of the produced results to the calling user. The main focus of the article is on the technical specification, the design, and the functionality of the framework. However, with the purpose of assessing the proposed architecture, a prototype implementation based on the discussed specifications was built and its performance was evaluated using a series of pilot services.
Context-Aware Query Processing in Ad-Hoc Environments of Peers
Authors: Benou P. , Bitos V.
Published: February 2011

The recent advances in wireless and mobile communication technologies enable users to conduct commercial activities anywhere and at any time. In this new environment, the designing of appropriate applications constitutes both a necessity and a challenge at the same time in order to support effectively the movable user. This article investigates the environment in which these applications operate, identifies possible categories of them and proposes guidelines for their development process.
Business Models for M-Services
Authors: Eriksson Carina , Kalling Thomas , Åkesson Maria , Fredberg Tobias
Published: February 2011

This article presents the consumer view of an innovative m-service, that is, the e-newspaper, which is published for a mobile reading device equipped with an e-paper display. The research question of this article is: What are the implications of the consumer view of future m-service innovation on business models? In this article, we present empirical results from an online survey with 3,626 respondents representing the consumer view. The factor analysis revealed three aspects of consumer preferences, that is, Ubiquitous access, Prestige of news source and Local anchorage and advertising. These were then correlated with media behavior and e-newspaper preferences to indicate three possible market segments. We then discuss the implications that these consumer views could have on developing new business models, followed by a comparison to earlier research. Finally, we propose an integrated e-newspaper business model framework consisting of three models, ubiquitous, local, and prestige.
The Evolution of B2B E-Services from First Generation E-Commerce Solutions to Multichannel Architectures
Authors: Legner Christine
Published: February 2011

Although e-services have been recognized for their contribution to strengthening customer relationships and fostering customer loyalty, prior research is heavily skewed toward the field of business-to-consumer interactions and online retail channels. This article explores the evolution of e-services in the business-to-business domain. Based on the case study of ETA SA, a Swiss manufacturer of watch movements and components, it identifies three stages of increasing electronic interaction with customers. The company pioneered online ordering of watch spare parts based on a first generation e-commerce solution and subsequently introduced a comprehensive customer service portal. Our research suggests that moving from the e-commerce solution to the customer process portal involved a significant extension of the e-service portfolio (service innovation), whereas the subsequent stage introduced an additional electronic channel (channel innovation). Every stage in this evolution path forces companies to substantially re-architect their interorganizational process and system linkages. From the experiences of ETA SA, we conclude that a service-oriented multichannel architecture makes it easier to cope with the growing number of e-services and the complexity of serving multiple electronic channels.
Conceptualizing Competences in E-Services Adoption and Assimilation in SMES
Authors: Scupola Ada
Published: February 2011

This article investigates the competences deemed necessary both at top managerial and individual levels for the successful adoption and assimilation of business-to-business e-services in small and medium size enterprises. To this end, an in-depth case study of a business-to-business e-service system, a Web-based travel reservation system, was conducted. The results show that three main competences, namely vision, value and control, are important at top management level for the primary adoption of e-services. For secondary adoption and assimilation, three categories of competences were identified as being important either to have or to develop at the individual level, namely technical, interpersonal and conceptual skills.
An Empirical Study on the Integrated Framework of e-CRM in Online Shopping
Authors: Kim Changsu , Zhao Weihong , Yang Kyung H.
Published: February 2011

Based on customer cognitive, affective and conative experiences in Internet online shopping, this study, from customers’ perspectives, develops a conceptual framework for e-CRM to explain the psychological process that customers maintain a long-term exchange relationship with specific online retailer. The conceptual framework proposes a series of causal linkages among the key variables affecting customer commitment to specific online retailer, such as perceived value (as cognitive belief), satisfaction (as affective experience) and trust (as conative relationship intention). Three key exogenous variables affecting Internet online shopping experiences, such as perceived service quality, perceived product quality, and perceived price fairness, are integrated into the framework. This study empirically tested and supported a large part of the proposed framework and the causal linkages within it. The empirical results highlight some managerial implications for successfully developing and implementing a strategy for e-CRM.
Ethical Analysis of Publisher and Faculty Roles in Building and Using Electronic Educational Products
Authors: Tashiro Jay Shiro
Published: February 2011

Educational materials are developed by publishers but educational methods utilizing these instructional materials are selected and implemented by faculty members. This article examines ethical issues in developing and using electronic educational materials designed for healthcare education at the undergraduate level. An ethical faramework called “the four principles with attention to scope” was used to examine the roles of publihsers and faculty members in development and usage of electronice healthcare educational materials. In particular, we donducted an ethical analysis to explore the extent to which publishers and faculty achieve the four ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. The results of this analysis suggest that both publishers and faculty members do not achieve what is required by these four ethical principles. However, the analysis is complicated by confounding of publishers’ roles in developing educational materials and faculty members’ roles in selecting and implementing instructional materials for students.
Corporate Social Responsibility in the Dynamic Information Age of Inter-Systems Connectivity
Authors: Ashta Arvind
Published: February 2011

The Information Age, with its new technologies, is accompanied by an accelerating shift in work relations, of which this article focuses on connectivity, interdependence and dynamism. Along with this change in relations, new ethical cultures and responsibilities are evolving at different levels: individual, corporate, governmental, NGO, and global. This article zooms in on theoretical developments related to Corporate Social Responsibility to see how they have evolved to adapt to the new mode of inter-dependent connectivity in a dynamic environment of changing relationships. The article proposes that, by and large, corporate-centric theories are giving way to person-centric theories. The limitations and contradictions of this evolutionary view and theories are also presented.
Relational Ethics in Global Commerce
Authors: Creed Andrew , Zutshi Ambika , Ross Jane
Published: February 2011

This article identifies the fragility of relationships and ethical practices in the context of global commercial relationships and reflects upon the centrality of human relationships in commerce. The connections between people in global business are underpinned by ethical actions and outcomes and influenced by the degree that information and communication technology are part of the commercial relationship. Issues of trust, privacy, sharing, communication, security, anonymity, and learning emerge as relevant. This analysis positions relational ethics into the field of commerce, exposes the critical issues, and makes recommendations for ways to work with and further develop the link between commerce and relational ethics at the global level, especially in the light of developing technologies and the growth of e-commerce.
Stakeholders Perspective and Ethics in Financial Information Systems
Authors: Biot-Paquerot Guillaume , Hasnaoui Amir
Published: February 2011

In the current context, the safety and security of financial information system (FIS) is the concern of every stakeholder. In order to solve the problem, most research only focuses on the technical and technological issues, omitting the ethical issues and the role of all stakeholders. The importance tied to the integration of new partners by incorporating all stakeholders with different and various objectives and interests implies a new understanding of the FIS. The stakes require financial information sharing among all stakeholders and the safeguarding of sensitive information and its appropriate use within the e-environment.
A Study on Taxpayers' Willingness to Use Self-Service Technology-Based Online Government Services
Authors: Chen Ching-Wen , Huang Echo
Published: February 2011

Technology is forming a society of do-it-yourselfers, in which customers can perform services on their own, without the help of live tellers. However, customers with insufficient knowledge of technology may not be ready for Self-Service Technologies (SSTs) to serve themselves, thus weakening their intent to adopt SSTs in delivering service. Identifying users’ attitudes toward using online service via SSTs is a critical issue for providers, particularly for government agencies. This study presents a theoretical model to examine and explain taxpayers’ willingness to adopt the personal income tax-filing system, which is a typical enhanced self-service information system (SSIS). Moreover, readiness to use technology has been addressed on the individual level in the context of mental status by revealing the effect of individual’s beliefs on taxpayers’ acceptance of online taxation systems (OTS). The managerial implications and recommendations are provided.
The Internet Moderating Impact among Stakeholders in Modern Organizations
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ayub , Soliman Khalid S.
Published: February 2011

The Internet has a significant impact on service organizations their way they are managed. This article examines the role of Internet in moderating the relative importance of various stakeholders such as customers, suppliers, distributors, stockholders, managers, and employees in service management environment. A detailed analysis to the stakeholders involved based on previous studies and carrying it over to the Internet age. The analysis highlights the changing role of each stakeholder in any organization and how these stakeholders influence service management decisions is examined. The article provides today’s management with a clear vision of the changing business environments and in devising a plan to lead their organizations in the Internet era.
Impact of Digital Revolution on the Structure of Nigerian Banks
Authors: Agboola A.A. , Yinusa D.O. , Ologunde O.O.
Published: February 2011

The study examined the extent to which digital revolution has affected the organizational structure of Nigerian banks. Twenty-five banks were selected for the study in south-western Nigeria. Interview was conducted for middle and top level managers and questionnaire was developed and administered to the other staff using a five-point Likert scale to determine the attitudes and opinions of the staff on the effects of digital revolution on the organizational structure of the banks. The mean was used as an indicator of central tendency for quantitative variables that have frequency distributions in the study.
Factors Affecting e-Payment Adoption in Nigeria
Authors: Gholami Roya , Ogun Augustine , Koh Elizabeth , Lim John
Published: February 2011

The payment system of a country plays a crucial role in its economy; however, despite the benefits of e-Payment and efforts by financial authorities, Nigeria still has a low e-Payment adoption rate. In this regard, there is an urgent need to investigate the factors that affect individuals’ intention to adopt e-Payment. Drawing on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model, this paper develops a theoretical model for e-Payment adoption in Nigeria. Additionally, a survey was conducted on 500 respondents with 213 complete responses received to test the model, and results show that perceived benefits, effort expectancy, social influence, trust, awareness, and demographic variables affected individuals’ intention to adopt e-Payments. Based on the findings, managerial and theoretical implications are deliberated.
Relevance of Information Systems Strategic Planning Practices in E-Business Contexts
Authors: Kannabiran Ganesan , Sundar Srinivasan
Published: February 2011

Increasing global competition and advances in Internet technologies have led organizations to consider e-business strategies. However, evolving e-business strategies have been identified as a critical issue faced by corporate planners. The relevance and the use of IS (Information Systems) strategy planning practices in the context of e-business have been argued among researchers. In this paper, the authors investigate whether organizations can successfully improve the IS value in the e-business context by suitably extending and modifying IS planning practices. To achieve this objective, the authors use a longitudinal case study of an Indian automotive manufacturer to critically evaluate ‘why’ and ‘how’ e-business strategies differ from IS strategies. The authors compare and analyze five important planning parameters (strategic alignment, technological environment, formalization, role of the IS function, and implementation planning) and the IS value of both IS and e-business contexts. The research reveals that the e-business contexts are characterized by significant changes in planning parameters. Extending IS planning experiences and proper management of these parameters results in successful e-business strategies. The paper is concluded with a set of implications for deploying e-business strategies in developing countries and directions for future research.
Influential Factors in the Adoption and Use of E-Business and E-Commerce Information Technology (EEIT) by Small & Medium Businesses
Authors: Wymer Scott , Regan Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2011

This study addresses factors commonly examined in the research concerning adoption and use of e-business and e-commerce information technology (EEIT) by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The primary objectives are to determine: 1) what barriers and incentives SMEs perceive in adopting EEIT; 2) how the level of adoption of EEIT influences perceptions of incentives and barriers; and 3) whether results vary depending on demographic characteristics of size, geographic market scope, or industry sector. This paper also examines how homogenous SMEs’ perceptions are in their consideration of EEIT adoption factors. Data were collected from 290 U.S. SMEs. The findings revealed that among 25 factors identified in the research literature as incentives or barriers to adoption of EEIT by SMEs, only 16 factors were significant in the population studied, 12 as incentives and four as barriers. Factors were perceived differently as incentives or barriers by adopters, intended adopters, and non-adopters of EEIT. A number of differences were found among SMEs based on demographic characteristics, particularly size and industry-sector.
A Decision-Aid in Supplier Selection for Entrepreneurs, Using Nested-Design, MODM and FAHP
Authors: Kermani Mehrdad Agha Mohamad Ali , Nasiri Masoud , Aliahmadi Mohamad Hadi
Published: February 2011

Decision making is an important task for entrepreneurs, and proper performance of purchasing has a direct effect on decreasing costs, increasing profitability, and survival of an entrepreneur. Also, entrepreneurs must follow formal rational decision processes as much as possible with fewer costs. To do so, they can use Design of Experiment techniques in combination with decision-aids. In this paper, the authors develop a fuzzy linear multiobjective model for supplier selection. With this model, the decision maker will be able to identify effective criteria with the Nested-Design technique and their relative importance on supplier selection with FAHP. In this regard, fuzzy linear multiobjective programming will be assigned a share of suppliers for supply and demands in the supply chain. The authors expect that using this combination of techniques will have an impressive effect on reducing supplier selection costs.
A Critical Exploration into whether E-Recruitment is an Effective E-Entrepreneurship Method in Attracting Appropriate Employees for Enterprises
Authors: Lewis Anthony , Daunton Lyn , Thomas Brychan , Sanders Gwenllian
Published: February 2011

This study critically explores e-recruitment and whether it is an effective e-entrepreneurship method in attracting appropriate employees for enterprises. The research was conducted by using both primary and secondary data. The secondary data primarily concentrated on the direct impact to enterprises and how changes in recruitment strategies could affect individuals. The primary research attempted to look at e-recruitment from the perspective of a recruitment agency and potential users of recruitment agencies. Using face-to-face interviews, online focus groups, and questionnaires, the authors investigate and show the various reasons behind individuals’ decisions to use recruitment agencies. By examining the methods employed by the Prime Recruitment agency to meet their clients’ needs (both underlying employer and potential candidates) as well as sustaining a competitive advantage in a declining recruitment market, the authors attempt to resolve outstanding grey areas.