bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
User Acceptance of Mobile Services
Authors: Kaasinen Eija
Published: February 2011

Personal mobile devices are increasingly being used as platforms for interactive services. Ease of use is important, but the services should also provide clear value to the user and they should be trustworthy and easy to adopt. These user acceptance factors form the core of the Technology Acceptance Model for Mobile Services introduced in this article. The model has been set up based on field trials of several mobile services with altogether more than 200 test users. This article presents the technology acceptance model and introduces two case studies of implementing the model as a design and evaluation framework in practice.
Embrace the Chaos, It's Not Noise
Authors: Glascock Anthony P. , Kutzik David M.
Published: February 2011

The lessons learned from seven years of the testing of a behavioral monitoring system— the Everyday Living Monitoring System (ELMS) — outside the laboratory in the real world are discussed. Initially, the real world was perceived as messy and filled with noise that just delayed and complicated the testing and development of the system. However, over time, it became clear that without embracing the chaos of the world and listening very carefully to its noise, the monitoring system could not be successfully moved from the laboratory to the real world. Specific lessons learned at each stage of development and testing are discussed, as well as the challenges that are associated with the actual commercialization of the system.
What does Mobile Mean?
Authors: Beale Russell
Published: February 2011

This article presents a perspective on what it really means to be mobile - why being mobile is different. It looks at the technological and physical implications, but really considers the broader issues: the social implications, the impact that data on the move can have on people, and the use of mobile devices as sensors that can drive intelligent, contextual systems that provide a much more effective experience for the user than existing systems do.
Designing Mobile Phones for Children – Is there a Difference?
Authors: Read Janet C
Published: February 2011

The mobile phone is one of the most ubiquitous technologies in the developed world. In a market dominated by adults and older teenagers, one group of users that is relatively new to the mobile phone market is children. When children use mobile phones their needs are sometimes complicated by, or conflict with, the needs of their parents or primary care givers. As the laptop is being redesigned to make it accessible to children, it is worthwhile to ask the question ‘Do children need a different sort of mobile phone than their parents?’ By considering data about the use and usage of mobile phones, research on designing special children’s technologies, and research on the needs of children as mobile phone users, this paper presents the argument that the mobile phone needs a design re-think if it is to meet the needs of children.
SatNav or SatNag? A Case Study Analysis of Evolving HCI Issues for In-Car Computing
Authors: Burnett G.E.
Published: February 2011

A wide range of in-car computing systems are either already in existence or under development which aim to improve the safety, efficiency and the comfort/pleasure of the driving experience. Several unique forces act on the design process for this technology which must be understood by HCI researchers. In particular, this is an area in which safety concerns dominate perspectives. In this position paper, I have used a case study system (vehicle navigation) to illustrate the evolution of some key HCI design issues that have arisen in the last twenty years as this in-car technology has matured. Fundamentally, I argue that, whilst HCI research has had an influence on current designs for vehicle navigation systems; this has not always been in a wholly positive direction. Future research must take a holistic viewpoint and consider the full range of impacts that in-car computing systems can have on the driving task.
A Neuromorphic Single-Electron Circuit for Noise-Shaping Pulse-Density Modulation
Authors: Kikombo Andrew Kilinga , Asai Tetsuya , Oya Takahide , Schmid Alexandre , Leblebici Yusuf
Published: February 2011

We propose a bio-inspired circuit performing pulse-density modulation with single-electron devices. The proposed circuit consists of three single-electron neuronal units, receiving the same input and are connected to a common output. The output is inhibitorily fedback to the three neuronal circuits through a capacitive coupling. The circuit performance was evaluated through Monte-Carlo based computer simulations. We demonstrated that the proposed circuit possesses noise-shaping characteristics, where signal and noises are separated into low and high frequency bands respectively. This significantly improved the signal-tonoise ratio (SNR) by 4.34 dB in the coupled network, as compared to the uncoupled one. The noise-shaping properties are as a result of i) the inhibitory feedback between the output and the neuronal circuits, and ii) static noises (originating from device fabrication mismatches) and dynamic noises (as a result of thermally induced random tunneling events) introduced into the network.
Simple Collision-Based Chemical Logic Gates with Adaptive Computing
Authors: Toth Rita , Stone Christopher , de Lacy Costello Ben , Adamatzky Andrew , Bull Larry
Published: February 2011

We present a method that is capable of implementing information transfer without any rigidly controlled architecture using the light-sensitive Belousov-Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction system. Chemical wave fragments are injected into a subexcitable area and their collisions result in annihilation, fusion or quasi-elastic interactions depending on their initial positions. The fragments of excitation both pre and post collision possess a considerable freedom of movement when compared to previous implementations of information transfer in chemical systems. We propose that the collision of such wave fragments can be controlled automatically through adaptive computing. By extension, forms of unconventional computing, i.e., massively parallel non-linear computers, can be realised by such an approach. In this study we present initial results from using a simple evolutionary algorithm to design Boolean logic gates within the BZ system.
Toward Biomolecular Computers Using Reaction-Diffusion Dynamics
Authors: Hiratsuka Masahiko , Ito Koichi , Aoki Takafumi , Higuchi Tatsuo
Published: February 2011

This article investigates a possibility of constructing massively parallel computing systems using molecular electronics technology. By employing the specificity of biological molecules, such as enzymes, new integrated circuit architectures that are free from interconnection problems could be constructed. To clarify the proposed concept, we present a functional model of an artificial catalyst device called an enzyme transistor. In this article, we develop artificial catalyst devices as basic building blocks for molecular computing integrated circuits, and explore the possibility of a new computing paradigm using reaction-diffusion dynamics induced by collective behavior of artificial catalyst devices.
An Experimental Performance Comparison for Indexing Mobile Objects on the Plane
Authors: Sioutas Spyros , Papaloukopoulos G. , Tsichlas K. , Manolopoulos Y.
Published: February 2011

In this paper, the authors present a time-efficient approach to index objects moving on the plane in order to answer range queries about their future positions. Each object is moving with non small velocity u, meaning that the velocity value distribution is skewed (Zipf) towards in some range , where is a positive lower threshold. This algorithm enhances a previously described solution (Sioutas, Tsakalidis, Tsichlas, Makris, & Manolopoulos, 2007) by accommodating the ISB-tree access method as presented in Kaporis et al. (2005). Experimental evaluation shows the improved performance, scalability, and efficiency of the new algorithm.
Signalling Intentions and Obliging Behavior Online
Authors: Backhouse James , Cheng Edward K.
Published: February 2011

Electronic commerce has the potential to deliver goods and services to customers more quickly, cheaply, and conveniently than ever before. But before performance the obligations have to be created. This paper explores the semiotic and legal aspects of online contracts. It reviews speech act theory from philosophers such as Austin and Searle to explain how words and actions can create legal obligations. It then examines English contract law and its requirements to find an abstract basis upon which contract creation can be modeled. Using semiotics and law, the paper thereafter creates a model of the contract creation process and applies it to electronic commerce in intangible goods. Since electronic commerce is so pervasive and extends beyond any particular jurisdiction, the need is destined to increase for high-level abstraction and for a model for comparison and cross reference.
Web-User Satisfaction
Authors: Otto James R. , Najdawi Mohammad K. , Caron Karen M.
Published: February 2011

This paper studies the relationship between Web page download time and various elements of user satisfaction. These elements include content, format, ease of use, appeal of graphics and responsiveness. The approach that was followed to test the hypotheses was a controlled experiment where the users were provided with several Web pages. The download time of the Web pages was varied and controlled by the administrators. A questionnaire was used to assess the user’s level of satisfaction. Surprisingly, delays of 15 seconds or less did not appear to impact a user’s overall level of satisfaction. In the process, the paper highlights the strategic implication of corporate Web sites and makes several recommendations in that regard.
The Assessment of Software Quality from the User Perspective
Authors: Huitfeldt Brownwyn , Middleton Michael
Published: February 2011

Software quality analysis was carried out using the characteristics of functionality, reliability, usability, efficiency, maintainability and portability and their associated sub-characteristics that are defined in the national software quality standard AS/NZS 4216: 1994 [ISO/IEC 9126: 1991]. The research indicates that the standard criteria are oriented towards IT maintenance staff rather than end users and are identifiable with established, stable business areas. Further criteria such as those relating to flexibility should be included for effective end user evaluation.
Studying the Translations of NHSnet
Authors: Whitley Edgar A. , Pouloudi Athanasia
Published: February 2011

This paper explores the ways in which innovative information systems projects take on a life of their own. The paper begins by reviewing some of the more traditional ways of making sense of this phenomenon: resistance to change, escalation and unintended results, before introducing the sociology of translation. This provides a theoretical framework for viewing the transformations that an information systems project undergoes. The framework is then applied to the case of the NHSnet project in the United Kingdom. Using the language of sociology of translation, we consider the underlying stakeholder relations in the case study and draw more general conclusions for the responsibilities of stakeholders involved in an information systems lifecycle.
Toward an Understanding of the Behavioral Intention to Use a Groupware Application
Authors: Chen Yining , Lou Hao
Published: February 2011

Groupware technologies have become an important part of the business computing and communicating infrastructure in many organizations. However, literature suggests that many groupware applications, especially those requiring significant collaboration and cooperation among users, are still not adequately used (Nunamaker, 1997; Orlikowski, 1993). Their potential benefits are far from being fully realized due to the lack of user acceptance. While there are studies that show the relevance and positive impact of group support systems on group work, very few have looked into users’ perception of the groupware technologies and their motivation to participate (Nunamaker, 1997). Expectancy theory is considered one of the most promising models of individual motivation. This study examines the use of expectancy theory in explaining the behavioral intention (motivation) to use a groupware application. Data gathered from 86 student users in a judgment modeling exercise suggest that the model is a significant predictor of users’ motivation. The successful use of expectancy theory also suggests that it is appropriate for assessing and understanding users’ motivation to use a groupware application and, subsequently, its acceptance and success. Since user acceptance is an essential antecedent of a successful groupware application, the results of this study should be considered thoughtfully when a groupware application is designed, implemented, and operated.
The Influence of Dispositional Factors and Situational Constraints on End User Performance
Authors: Jawahar I. M.
Published: February 2011

Organizations introduce end user computing (EUC) technology to enhance productivity. Given the practical significance of end user performance, it is important to uncover factors with potential to influence end user performance (EUP). However, prior research has relied almost exclusively on dispositional variables to predict EUP. In this study, the effects of both dispositional and situational variables on EUP were examined. Of the variables examined, dispositional variables explained more variance in EUP than situational variables. Together, both sets of variables explained 40% of the variance in performance. Consistent with the predictions of several theoretical models of performance (e.g., Peters & O’Connor, 1980), dispositional variables were less predictive of performance when situational constraints were present than when they were absent. Implications of results for practitioners are discussed and avenues for future research on end user performance are suggested.
The Roles of Computer Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectancy in Influencing the Computer End-User's Organizational Commitment
Authors: Stone Robert W. , Henry John W.
Published: February 2011

This study uses data collected by a survey of computer-based medical information system end-users in a large hospital in the southeastern United States. The theoretical model examined using this data links several antecedents to the end-users’ organizational commitment, mediated by computer self-efficacy and outcome expectancy. These antecedents are past computer experience of the end-user, computer staff support for the computer system, ease of system use, and the degree of system use (i.e., percentage of time the system is used by the end-user). The empirical results indicate that past computer experience and the degree of system use positively influence the end-user’s organizational commitment through both computer self-efficacy and outcome expectancy. These also show that computer staff support and ease of system use positively impact the end-user’s organizational commitment through outcome expectancy. From these results, conclusions and implications for practicing managers are discussed.
TAM or Just Plain Habit
Authors: Gefen David
Published: February 2011

According to the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), behavioral intentions to use a new IT are primarily the product of a rational analysis of its desirable perceived outcomes, namely perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU). But what happens with the continued use of an IT among experienced users? Does habit also kick in as a major factor or is continued use only the product of its desirable outcomes? This study examines this question in the context of experienced online shoppers. The data show that, as hypothesized, online shoppers’ intentions to continue using a website that they last bought at depend not only on PU and PEOU, but also on habit. In fact, habit alone can explain a large proportion of the variance of continued use of a website. Moreover, the explained variance indicates that habit may also be a major predictor of PU and PEOU among experienced shoppers. Implications are discussed.
Website Retailing
Authors: Leonard Lori N. , Cronan Timothy P.
Published: February 2011

Electronic commerce (EC) includes electronic data interchange (EDI) and the Internet and is used in various applications to seek improvements in effectiveness and efficiency. Supply chain management (SCM) is an application of EC, and therefore, the impact of EC can be seen throughout the supply chain (SC). This study explores the effectiveness of replenishment using the Internet (i.e., website retailing) when comparing different replenishment options, by analyzing the distributor-retail outlet and retail outlet-customer links in the SC. Moreover, this research studies customer buying habits as well as inventory management strategies when products are purchased via a website. Five-hundred-and-fifteen products are analyzed over time (monthly) in order to identify replenishment issues when conducting business (e-business) from a website (eTailing).
Toward an Integrative Framework for Online Consumer Behavior Research
Authors: Saeed Khawaja A. , Hwang Yujong , Yi Mun Y.
Published: February 2011

The recent failure of a large number of e-tail companies epitomizes the challenges of operating through virtual channels and underscores the need to better understand key drivers of online consumer behavior. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive review of the extant information systems (IS) literature related to online consumer behavior and integrate the literature in order to enhance our knowledge of consumer behavior in electronic markets and provide clear directions for future research. This paper introduces a framework that integrates research findings across studies to develop a coherent and comprehensive picture of the online consumer behavior research conducted in the IS field. The integrative framework proposes system quality, information quality, service quality, and vendor and channel characteristics as key factors that impact online consumer behavior, achieving their effects by altering the perceptions of usefulness, ease of use, trust, and shopping enjoyment.
Responsibility for Information Assurance and Privacy
Authors: Stahl Bernd Carsten
Published: February 2011

Decisions regarding information assurance and IT security can affect individuals’ rights and obligations and thereby acquire a moral quality. The same can be said for questions of privacy. This article starts by showing how and why information assurance and privacy can become problems worthy of ethical consideration. It demonstrates that there is no simple and linear relationship between ethics and information assurance, nor between ethics and privacy. Many decisions in the area of IT, however, affect not only one but both of these subjects. The ethical evaluation of decisions and actions in the area of privacy and security is therefore highly complex. The article explores the question of whether individual responsibility is a useful construct to address ethical issues of this complexity. After introducing a theory of responsibility, the article discusses the conditions that a subject of responsibility is typically assumed to fulfil. The article will argue that individual human beings lack some of the essential preconditions necessary to be ascribed responsibility. Individuals have neither the power, nor the knowledge, nor the intellectual capacities to successfully deal with the ethical challenges in the tension of privacy and information assurance. The article ends by suggesting that the concept of responsibility may nevertheless be useful in this setting, but it would have to be expanded to allow collective entities as subjects.
Testing the Technology-to-Performance Chain Model
Authors: Staples D. Sandy , Seddon Peter
Published: February 2011

Goodhue and Thompson proposed the technology-to-performance chain (TPC) model in 1995 to help end users and organizations understand and make more effective use of information technology. The TPC model combines insights from research on user attitudes as predictors of utilization and insights from research on task-technology fit as a predictor of performance. In this article, the TPC model was tested in two settings - voluntary use and mandatory use. In both settings, strong support was found for the impact of task-technology fit on performance, as well as on attitudes and beliefs about use. Social norms also had a significant impact on utilization in the mandatory use setting. Beliefs about use only had a significant impact on utilization in the voluntary use setting. Overall, the results found support for the predictive power of the TPC model; however, the results show that the relationships among the constructs in the model will vary depending on if the users have a choice to use the system or not.
Software Use Through Monadic and Dyadic Procedure
Authors: Truman Gregory E.
Published: February 2011

Our research objectives are to provide a theoretical discussion on how software may impact user performance in ways contrary to designers’ intentions and users’ desires, and to empirically evaluate user performance impacts that derive from ostensibly performance-enhancing software features. We propose that dyadic procedure is associated with higher levels of user performance when compared to monadic procedure. Using word-processing software utilization as the research context, we test the proposition on data from 46 participants. Contrary to expectations, the results suggest that dyadic procedure may decrease the accuracy of users’ work. We conclude that software design features that are intended to improve user performance may have opposite effects, which raise questions about these features’ utility and desirability.
Learning to Use IT in the Workplace
Authors: Spitler Valerie K.
Published: February 2011

Fluency with information technology (IT), defined as “an ability [to use information technology] to express [oneself] creatively, to reformulate knowledge and to synthesize new information,” (Committee on Information Technology Literacy, 1999, p. ES-1), is an important concern for those who manage workers with jobs that require the use of IT. Training is one mechanism to build fluency, but research about “influential individuals” hints that other mechanisms might also play a role. This article presents an interpretive case study of junior-level knowledge workers at a management consulting firm. To learn to use the IT of their jobs, these workers relied not only on formal training, but also on on-the-job learning through experimentation; reading books, manuals, and online help; and social interaction with their peers. The researcher identified different types of “master users” who were indispensable for this learning to take place. The findings of this study suggest that managers and researchers interested in training users also devote attention to these other mechanisms for learning, especially the “master user” phenomenon.
Impact of Personal Innovativeness on the Use of the Internet Among Employees at Work
Authors: Larsen Tor J. , Sorebo Øystein
Published: February 2011

Examining Internet use among employees, this research investigated the theoretical proposition that personal IT innovativeness will positively impact the use of novel computer technologies. The research model included the individual traits of age, gender, experience with IT, and educational level. The article discusses the categories of organizationally relevant versus personal use of the Internet. Using a questionnaire, data was collected from 328 respondents in one organization. The results indicated that users perceive structural differences across various types of Internet use areas, although no clear support for a distinction between organizationally relevant and personal use was found. Additionally, the analyses indicated that personal use is considerably lower than organizationally relevant use of the Internet. However, employees may not distinguish clearly between these two categories. Personal IT innovativeness was the best predictor of organizationally relevant use of the Internet. Age contributed negatively to Internet use. Males appear to use the Internet more frequently than females. Educational level had no impact on Internet use.
The Effectiveness of Online Task Support vs. Instructor-Led Training
Authors: Mao Ji-Ye , Brown Bradley R.
Published: February 2011

This study investigates the effectiveness of online task support (the wizard type in particular) relative to instructor-led training, and explores the underlying cognitive process in terms of the development of mental models. Ninety-two novice users of Microsoft Access were either trained by an experienced instructor or performed exercises with online task support, and then completed a variety of performance-based tests. Analysis shows that users of online task support tended to outperform instructor-trained individuals on high-level tasks, whereas the performance difference on low-level tasks was not significant. The cognitive processes underlying the difference are also noteworthy. Task support users were more likely to develop conceptual mental models as opposed to procedural ones, which accounted for their better high-level performance. Mental model completeness was also found to be closely associated with performance on both low and high-level tasks. These findings offer support for increased use of online task support.
Quality of Use of a Complex Technology
Authors: Boudreau Marie-Claude , Seligman Larry
Published: February 2011

It has been argued that simple conceptualizations of usage are inadequate for understanding and studying the use of complex information technologies. In this article, we contend that quality of use, instead of the dichotomy of use vs. nonuse, is appropriate for understanding the extent to which a complex information technology is being used. An inductive case study of the implementation of a complex information technology was conducted, which led to the development of a learning-based model of quality of use. This model suggests the inclusion of factors relating to training (either formal or informal), learning, and beliefs, their impact on quality of use, and their change over time. Moreover, it describes how quality of use evolves over time as learning increases and perceptions of the system change. Evidence from the case study along with relationships from the literature are provided to support the model. Implications for future research are also discussed.
Privacy, Risk Perception, and Expert Online Behavior
Authors: Drennan J. , Sullivan G. , Previte J.
Published: February 2011

Advances in online technologies have raised new concerns about privacy. A sample of expert household end users was surveyed concerning privacy, risk perceptions, and online behavior intentions. A new e-privacy typology consisting of privacy-aware, privacy-suspicious, and privacy-active types was developed from a principal component factor analysis. Results suggest the presence of a privacy hierarchy of effects where awareness leads to suspicion, which subsequently leads to active behavior. An important finding was that privacy-active behavior that was hypothesized to increase the likelihood of online subscription and purchasing was not found to be significant. A further finding was that perceived risk had a strong negative influence on the extent to which respondents participated in online subscription and purchasing. Based on these results, a number of implications for managers and directions for future research are discussed.
Evaluating Group Difference in Gender During the Formation of Relationship Quality and Loyalty in ISP Service
Authors: Ling Chieh-Peng , Ding Cherng G.
Published: February 2011

This study examines the moderating role of gender during the formation of relationship quality and loyalty in the context of IT service. In the proposed model, expertise, relational selling behavior, perceived network quality, and service recovery indirectly influence a customer’s loyalty through mediation of relationship quality. Gender moderates each model path. The moderating effects are examined simultaneously using data from customers of Taiwan’s leading Internet service provider. Test results indicate that the influences of perceived network quality on relationship quality and of relationship quality on loyalty are stronger for males than females, while relational selling behavior influences relationship quality more for females than for males. Furthermore, service recovery influences relationship quality for both the male and female groups, but its influence does not differ significantly between the two groups. Finally, expertise exerts an insignificant influence on relationship quality for both groups. Implications of the empirical findings also are discussed.
The Importance of Ease of Use, Usefulness, and Trust to Online Consumers
Authors: McCloskey Donna Weaver
Published: February 2011

This research examines electronic commerce participation and attitudes by older Americans. Questionnaires were distributed at a large retirement community and several senior centers located in Pennsylvania. The sample of 110 respondents ranged in age from 52 to 87. Fifty nine percent reported purchasing an item online in the last six months. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was used and modified to examine the impact attitudes concerning ease of use, usefulness and trust had on electronic commerce usage. Usefulness and trust were found to have a positive, direct affect on usage. Ease of use had significant impacts on usefulness and trust had a significant impact on both ease of use and usefulness. The paper concludes with a discussion of these results, study limitations and directions for future research.
User Acceptance of Voice Recognition Technology
Authors: Simon Steven John , Paper David
Published: February 2011

Voice recognition technology-enabled devices possess extraordinary growth potential, yet some research indicates that organizations and consumers are resisting their adoption. This study investigates the implementation of a voice recognition device in the United States Navy. Grounded in the social psychology and information systems literature, the researchers adapted instruments and developed a tool to explain technology adoption in this environment. Using factor analysis and structural equation modeling, analysis of data from the 270 participants explained almost 90% of the variance in the model. This research adapts the technology acceptance model by adding elements of the theory of planned behavior, providing researchers and practitioners with a valuable instrument to predict technology adoption.
Are Information Systems' Success and Failure Factors Related? An Exploratory Study
Authors: Fowler Jeremy J. , Horan Pat
Published: February 2011

Although the discipline of information systems (IS) development is well established, systems’ failure, abandonment, and dissatisfaction with functioning systems remain widespread. This has generated a considerable amount of literature investigating the factors seen to contribute to IS success and failure. However, little attention has been given to the possible relationships among the factors most influential in IS success and failure. Therefore, we examine the development of a successful system and compare the factors associated with the system’s success against the factors most reported in the literature as being associated with systems’ failure. Project management practices may be affected by knowing whether success and failure are two sides of one coin or different in nature. The results of our exploratory study showed that four of the six factors identified by the participants in our chosen system as being the most influential in the success of the system were directly related to the factors identified from the literature as being most associated with IS failure. Although more research needs to take place, these results would suggest a considerable relationship might exist between IS success and failure factors.
Exploring System Use as a Measure of Knowledge Management Success
Authors: Jennex Murray E.
Published: February 2011

This article discusses system use as a measure of knowledge management success. It is proposed that for knowledge management systems (KMS) it is not the amount of use that is important, but rather the quality of that use and the intention to use the KMS when appropriate. Evidence is provided to support this proposition and a knowledge management system success model incorporating this proposition is discussed. Additionally, findings are provided that show that new users to an organization use the KMS differently than experienced users and implications of this difference are discussed.
The Role of Expertise in the Evaluation of Computing Architectures
Authors: Bajaj Akhilesh
Published: February 2011

Recently, there has been considerable interest in evaluating newer computer architectures such as the Web services architecture and the network computer architecture. In this work we investigate the decision models of expert and novice IS managers when evaluating computing architectures for use in an organization. This task is important because several consumer choice models in the literature indicate that the evaluation of alternative products is a critical phase that consumers undergo prior to forming an attitude toward the product. Previous work on evaluating the performance of experts vs. novices has focused either on the process differences between them, or on the performance outcome differences, with work in MIS focusing primarily on process differences. In this work, we utilize a methodology that examines both aspects, by constructing individual decision models for each expert and novice in the study. There is a growing consensus in the management literature that while experts may follow different processes, very often their performance does not differ significantly from novices in the business domain.
End User Types
Authors: Govindarajulu Chittibabu , Arinze Bay
Published: February 2011

Contemporary end users are more knowledgeable about computing technologies than the end users of the early ’80s. However, many researchers still use the end user classification scheme proposed by Rockart and Flannery (1983) more than two decades ago. This scheme is inadequate to classify contemporary end users since it is based mainly on their knowledge and ignores other crucial dimensions such as control. Cotterman and Kumar (1989) proposed a user cube to classify end users based on the development, operation, and control dimensions of end user computing (EUC). Using this cube, users can be classified into eight distinct groups. In this research, a 10-item instrument is proposed to operationalize the user cube. Such an instrument would help managers to identify the status of EUC in their firms and to take appropriate action. Based on the data collected from 292 end users, the instrument was tested for construct, convergent, and discriminant validities. Researchers can use this instrument to study the interaction between constructs such as development and control with end user computing satisfaction (EUCS).
Design of the PromoPad
Authors: Zhu Wei , Owen Charles B.
Published: February 2011

Augmented-reality technologies as a new way of human-computer interaction make possible real-time modification of our perception of reality without active user interference. This article introduces the prototype of an augmented-reality shopping-assistant device, the PromoPad, based on a handheld tablet PC allowing see-through vision with augmentations. While this new interaction utilizing augmented reality that places products into contextual settings can enhance shopping experience and suggest complementary products, it also has challenges and issues when used in a public environment such as a store setting. This article discusses the design and implementation of the PromoPad, and addresses the issues and possible solutions. The concept of dynamic contextualization is further investigated in this setting with a list of possible context modifications and their relation to advertising and the psychology of consumer purchasing.
An Examination of the Impacts of Brand Equity, Security, and Personalization on Trust Processes in an E Commerce Environment
Authors: Stoecklin-Serino Catharina , Paradice David
Published: February 2011

This research broadens the study of trust as it applies to developing stable relationships in electronic environments. Prior studies have investigated many aspects of trust, but few have looked at its incremental development. Previous empirical research identifies antecedents to initial perceptions of trust that may influence the progression of trust to deeper levels. More conceptual work identifies antecedents that swiftly cultivate trust, allowing for stable relationships to develop more quickly. The antecedents investigated in this study, using regression and structural equation modeling, are the use of security symbols, trustworthy brand names, and personalization techniques. The results of the study indicate that the use of security symbols and trustworthy brand names have a positive and lasting effect on trusting beliefs and that personalization has a decreasing and lasting effect on trusting beliefs. There was no support for the hypothesis that trust develops over time in electronic environments.
Exploring Online Transaction Self-Efficacy in Trust Building in B2C E-Commerce
Authors: Kim Young Hoon , Kim Dan J. , Hwang Yujong
Published: February 2011

This study offers insight into whether trust-building and purchase intention can be affected by incorporating a motivational factor such as self-efficacy into online consumer trust-building. Previous e-trust study has illuminated individual online consumer trust in e-commerce as the outcome of a subjective judgment mechanism. In an effort to expand understanding of trust-building, self-efficacy, an important factor in explaining motivation of individual judgments and behaviors, has been incorporated into the domain of business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce. To overcome the limitation of the introduction of self-efficacy attempted in existing information system study, domain-specific self-efficacy has been introduced in the online purchases situation, and the relationship between general self-efficacy and situation-specific self-efficacy also has been taken into consideration. Results show that online transaction self-efficacy, as proposed and used as a situation-specific self-efficacy, affects trust in the online vendor and positively influences an individual online consumer’s purchase intention.
A Model of the Relationship among Consumer Trust, Web Design and User Attributes
Authors: Zhang Xiaoni , Prybutok Victor R. , Ryan Sherry , Pavur Robert
Published: February 2011

One important aspect of consumer relationships is trust. Conducting business on the Web is relatively new compared to traditional business and many of the factors related to consumer trust related to the Web remained unexplored. To increase our understanding about trust building on the Internet, this article studies trust with a focus on its relationship to Web design characteristics, specifically perceived quality of presentation, perceived ease of navigation, and several user attributes: prior internet experience, Web users’ self efficacy, and gender differences. A research model is proposed that builds upon prior research on trust. A survey is developed based on the constructs and relationships in the model. The data analysis and results confirm five out of eight of the hypotheses associated with the model. Theoretical and practical implications are provided.
What Makes Free/Libre Open Source Software (FLOSS) Projects Successful? An Agent-Based Model of FLOSS Projects
Authors: Radtke Nicholas P. , Janssen Marco A. , Collofello James S.
Published: February 2011

The last few years have seen a rapid increase in the number of Free/Libre Open Source Software (FLOSS) projects. Some of these projects, such as Linux and the Apache web server, have become phenomenally successful. However, for every successful FLOSS project there are dozens of FLOSS projects which never succeed. These projects fail to attract developers and/or consumers and, as a result, never get off the ground. The aim of this research is to better understand why some FLOSS projects flourish while others wither and die. This article presents a simple agent-based model that is calibrated on key patterns of data from SourceForge, the largest online site hosting open source projects. The calibrated model provides insight into the conditions necessary for FLOSS success and might be used for scenario analysis of future developments of FLOSS.
Consumer Welfare and Market Structure in a Model of Competition between Open Source and Proprietary Software
Authors: Gaudeul Alexia
Published: February 2011

I consider a Vickrey-Salop model of spatial product differentiation with quasi-linear utility functions and contrast two modes of production, the proprietary model where entrepreneurs sell software to the users, and the open source model where users participate in software development. I show that the OS model of production may be more efficient from the point of view of welfare than the proprietary model, but that an OS industry is vulnerable to entry by entrepreneurs while a proprietary industry can resist entry by OS projects. A mixed industry where OS and proprietary development methods coexist may exhibit large OS projects cohabiting with more specialized proprietary projects, and is more efficient than the proprietary model of production from the point of view of welfare.
Effects of Polite Behaviors Expressed by Robots
Authors: Nomura Tatsuya , Saeki Kazuma
Published: February 2011

A psychological experiment was conducted to straightforwardly investigate the effects of polite behaviors expressed by robots in Japan, using a small-sized humanoid robot that performed four types of behaviors with voice task instructions. Results of the experiment suggested that the subjects who experienced “deep bowing” motion of the robot felt it more extrovert than those who experienced “just standing” motion. Subjects who experienced “lying” motion of the robot felt the robot less polite than those who experienced the other motions. Female subjects more strongly feeling the robot extrovert replied for the task instruction from the robot faster, although no such trend was found in the male subjects. However, the male subjects who did not perform the task felt the robot less polite than the male subjects who performed the task and the female subjects who did not perform the task.
Adsorption of Fluoride on Limestone-Derived Apatite
Authors: Murutu Cyprian , Onyango Maurice S. , Ochieng Aoyi , Otieno Fred
Published: February 2011

Fluoride in drinking water above permissible levels is responsible for human dental and skeletal fluorosis. Adsorptive based defluoridation is the most popular technique with several end-user applications. Consequently, this paper describes the fluoride removal potential of a novel sorbent, limestone-derived apatite from drinking water. The adsorbent was prepared by calcining limestone followed by reacting with orthophosphoric acid. Batch sorption studies were performed as a function of contact time, pH, initial fluoride concentration, temperature and adsorbent dose. Sorption of fluoride was found to be pH dependent with a maximum occurring in the pH range of 5-9. The authors also observed that the material had a buffering effect on the same pH range. Meanwhile, the adsorption capacity was found to increase with temperature, depicting the endothermic nature of the adsorption process and decreases with adsorbent mass. The equilibrium data was well described by the conventional Langmuir isotherm, from which isotherm the maximum adsorption capacity was determined as 22.2 mg/g. From the kinetic perspective, the fluoride adsorptive reaction followed the pseudo-second order mechanism.
New Developments in Real-Time Kinematic Water Quality Monitoring of Lakes and River Basins
Authors: Novelli Luca , Vianello Michele , Weimin Hong , Bonadonna Lucia , Forte Tiziana
Published: February 2011

The kinematic approach to water monitoring of rivers and lakes was by Archimedes Logica under the EU initiatives (LIFE1996) for the monitoring of the Lagoon of Venice. These systems were limited to the measurement of typical basic parameters: pH, Eh, salinity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, temperature and immersion depth. However, this earlier system was unable to help against pollution from hydrocarbons. In this paper, the authors present a new kinematic monitoring system named AQUARIUS, which integrates a new generation of automatic chemical and biological analyzers. Automatic sampling and measurement equipment for micro-organism discrimination and counting are present, especially for detecting dangerous species like toxic algae. This article describes the wide spectrum of applications of the new AQUARIUS system: safety control of freshwater reservoirs, detection of urban and agriculture impacts on inland waters and early warning detection of man-made accidents, which are aided by the adoption of new mobile measurement equipment and broadband data channels offered by the modern 3G network.
Optimal Power Flow with TCSC and TCPS Modeling using Craziness and Turbulent Crazy Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Roy P. K. , Ghoshal S. P. , Thakur S. S.
Published: February 2011

This paper presents two new Particle swarm optimization methods to solve optimal power flow (OPF) in power system incorporating flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS). Two types of FACTS devices, thyristor-controlled series capacitor (TCSC) and thyristor controlled phase shifting (TCPS), are considered. In this paper, the problems of OPF with FACTS are solved by using particle swarm optimization with the inertia weight approach (PSOIWA), real coded genetic algorithm (RGA), craziness based particle swarm optimization (CRPSO), and turbulent crazy particle swarm optimization (TRPSO). The proposed methods are implemented on modified IEEE 30-bus system for four different cases. The simulation results show better solution quality and computation efficiency of TRPSO and CRPSO algorithms over PSOIWA and RGA. The study also shows that FACTS devices are capable of providing an economically attractive solution to OPF problems.
Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Control Approach Based on Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: El-Far Gomaa Zaki
Published: February 2011

This paper proposes a modified particle swarm optimization algorithm (MPSO) to design adaptive neuro-fuzzy controller parameters for controlling the behavior of non-linear dynamical systems. The modification of the proposed algorithm includes adding adaptive weights to the swarm optimization algorithm, which introduces a new update. The proposed MPSO algorithm uses a minimum velocity threshold to control the velocity of the particles, avoids clustering of the particles, and maintains the diversity of the population in the search space. The mechanism of MPSO has better potential to explore good solutions in new search spaces. The proposed MPSO algorithm is also used to tune and optimize the controller parameters like the scaling factors, the membership functions, and the rule base. To illustrate the adaptation process, the proposed neuro-fuzzy controller based on MPSO algorithm is applied successfully to control the behavior of both non-linear single machine power systems and non-linear inverted pendulum systems. Simulation results demonstrate that the adaptive neuro-fuzzy logic controller application based on MPSO can effectively and robustly enhance the damping of oscillations.