bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge Management Enablers within an IT Department
Authors: Koch Hope , Paradice David , Guo Yi , Chae Bongsug
Published: April 2011

In today’s competitive global economy, characterized by shorter product lifecycles, increased employee turnover and ubiquitous information technologies, an organization’s ability to manage knowledge may be the only remaining source of competitive advantage (Drucker, 1995, 1999; Kogut & Zander, 1992; Nonaka, 1994; Winter, 1987). Even though a number of researchers have outlined the importance of adopting knowledge management (KM) practices and many organizations have given lip service to the term, there is still some ambiguity concerning what KM actually is (Malhotra, 2000b), and little attention has been paid to factors that enable effective KM to occur (Nonaka & Takeuchi, 1995). This research uses technical and human-centric approaches combined with Holsapple and Joshi’s (1998, 2001) Kentucky Initiative to investigate KM within an information technology (IT) department. Based on our case study, modifications to Holsapple and Joshi’s architecture of a KM episode, a model of execution of knowledge manipulation activities and a model outlining factors enabling effective KM are proposed.
E-mail's Value
Authors: McManus Denise J. , Sankar Chetan S. , Carr Houtson H. , Ford F. Nelson
Published: April 2011

This chapter provides a new perspective on the competitive advantage of electronic mail within organizations. Essentially, e-mail assists individuals with efficiency and effectiveness. It improves the overall productivity of the firm and provides better coordination of internal processes. Electronic mail has been considered an important channel of communication. Since quality, time and cost are considered the main means of competition in today’s global market, this study investigated the relationship between the strategic uses and competitive benefits of electronic mail in contemporary organizations. A sample of 99 management-level staff members in 41 companies responded to a questionnaire assessing their e-mail usage and their perceived e-mail benefits. The results suggested that e-mail usage could augment the competitive posture of the firm.
Trust and Technology in Virtual Teams
Authors: Morris Steven A. , Marshall Thomas E. , Rainer Jr. R. Kelly
Published: April 2011

Pressured by the growing need for fast response times, mass customization and globalization, many organizations are turning to flexible organizational forms, such as virtual teams. Virtual teams consist of cooperative relationships supported by information technology to overcome limitations of time and/or location. Virtual teams require their members to rely heavily on the use of information technology and trust in coworkers. This study investigates the impacts that the reliance on information technology (operationalized in our study via the user satisfaction construct) and trust have on the job satisfaction of virtual team members. The study findings reveal that both user satisfaction and trust are positively related to job satisfaction in virtual teams, while system use was not found to play a significant role. These findings emphasize that organizations seeking the benefits of flexible, IT-enabled virtual teams must consider both the level of trust among colleagues, and the users’ satisfaction with the information technology on which virtual teams rely.
Information Technology Outsourcing in Australia
Authors: Beaumont Nicholas , Costa Christina
Published: April 2011

In Australia, popular discussion of the growing market in outsourcing information technology (IT) has been spurred by decisions of several large companies and the Australian government to outsource IT operations, but there has been little academic research into outsourcing in Australia. This chapter reports research into Australian IT outsourcing based on data collected in 1999. The research objectives were to measure the incidence of outsourcing among Australian firms, identify the functions outsourced, the reasons why managers considered outsourcing, the costs and benefits of outsourcing, possible changes in modes of and motivations for outsourcing and factors that are associated with successful outsourcing arrangements. The nature of and motivations for outsourcing have evolved; for example, cost saving is not (if it ever was) the prime motivator. The three most important factors driving outsourcing in Australia are access to skills, improved service quality and increasing managers’ ability to focus on core business activities. Decisions to outsource are weakly correlated with company size, but are not related to industry sectors. The factors most associated with successful IT outsourcing were the cultural match between the vendor and client, and the nature of the contractual arrangements—partnerships are more fruitful than rigidly interpreted black letter contracts. Outsourcing (not just of IT) is becoming increasingly popular; we suggest reasons for this and propose further research. The research used quantitative and qualitative data. A survey was used to collect data from 277 informants, and six interviews were used to explore managers’ reasons for outsourcing and relate these to the success of outsourcing arrangements. Outsourcing of many business processes (not just IT) is becoming increasingly frequent in Australia. Where appropriate, themes are illustrated by outsourcing activities other than IT.
Intentions to Use Groupware
Authors: Van Slyke Craig , Lou Hao , Day John
Published: April 2011

Information technologies that support groups of individuals have become increasingly visible. While some of these, such as electronic mail, have become almost ubiquitous in many organizations, other groupware applications have not enjoyed similar acceptance. This study uses diffusion of innovation theory to investigate factors that may influence intentions to use a specific groupware application, Lotus Domino discussion databases. Findings indicate that intentions to use Domino discussion databases are impacted by perceptions of relative advantage, complexity, compatibility and result demonstrability. There was not a significant relationship between intentions to use and perceived trialability, visibility or voluntariness. Suggestions for positively impacting important perceptions are also offered. Those interested in increasing the use of groupware technologies may find these suggestions helpful in guiding their efforts.
The Influences of the Degree of Interactivity on User-Outcomes in a Multimedia Environment
Authors: Haseman William D. , Polatoglu Vichuda Nui , Ramamurthy K.
Published: April 2011

The study reported here investigates the influence of “interactivity” on the learning outcomes of users in a multimedia systems environment. Drawing from past literature base and based on key tenets of three learning theories, behaviorist, cognitivist and constructivist, the study first proposes a measurement scheme for “interactivity” and then hypothesizes that “interactivity” would influence the learning outcomes positively in terms of users’ learning achievement and attitude. Three prototypes of a multimedia instructional/training system to represent high, low, and non-interactive modes of use were developed and implemented, and the hypothesized influences were investigated using a controlled laboratory research design. Multiple analysis of variance (MANOVA) results indicate that while interactivity does not necessarily enable enhanced gain in user learning, it positively influences participants’ attitude. The study finds no support for hypothesized moderating effects of learning styles (measured using Kolb’s Learning Style Inventory scale) on the relationship between interactivity and user outcomes. The results of this study have important implications for both education and corporations’ training efforts and investments. The reasons for practical lack of influence of learning style are highlighted in some detail. Implications and future research directions are discussed.
On the Role of Human Mortality in Information System Security
Authors: Siponen Mikko T.
Published: April 2011

The question of whether ethical theories appealing to human morality can serve as a means of protection against information system security breaches has been recognized by several authors. The existing views concerning the role of ethics in information systems security can be divided into two categories. These are (1) expressions about the use of human morality and (2) arguments claiming that the use of ethics is useless or, at best, extremely restricted. However, the former views are general statements lacking concrete guidance and the latter viewpoint is based on cultural relativism, and can be thus classified as descriptivism. This paper claims that the use of ethical theories and human morality is useful for security, particularly given that Hare’s Overriding thesis has validity — though it has its limitations, too. This paper further argues that descriptivism (including the doctrine of cultural relativism) leads to several problems, contradictions and causes detrimental effects to our well-being (and security). Therefore, an alternative approach to using ethics in minimizing security breaches that is based on non-descriptive theories is proposed. The use of non-descriptivism will be demonstrated using Rawls’ concept of the “veil of ignorance.” The limitations of non-descriptivism, and appealing to human morality in a general sense, will also be discussed. Finally, suggestions for future research directions are outlined.
Methodological Issues in MIS Cross-Cultural Research
Authors: Karahanna Elena , Evaristo Roberto , Srite Mark
Published: April 2011

This paper presents a discussion of methodological issues that are relevant and idiosyncratic to cross-cultural research. One characteristic that typifies cross-cultural studies is their comparative nature, i.e., they involve a comparison across two separate cultures on a focal phenomenon. When differences across cultures are observed, the question arises as to whether the results are true cultural differences or merely measurement artifacts. Methodological considerations in cross-cultural research focus on ruling out alternative explanations for these differences and thus enhancing the interpretability of the results. The paper presents an overview of key methodological issues in cross-cultural research and reviews methods of preventing or detecting methodological problems.
The Role of Virtual Multicultural Teams in Corporate Culture
Authors: El Guindi Amira , Kamel Sherif
Published: April 2011

Information and communication technologies are impacting today’s organizations and businesses in many diverse ways. The implications are perceived at the individual, organizational, and national levels. The old accustomed-to boundaries of national economies and markets are giving way to globalization and newly emerging trends. Competition is increasing, and due to the forces of change, the world market will sweep aside the small market players to make way for global organizations that are capable of penetrating the world markets through a massive global outreach strategy. In that respect, there is a need to invest in innovative business models such as virtual multicultural teams that are capable of handling the pressures of growing competition while capitalizing on the evolution of information and communication technology. Global organizations need to operate through a very flexible structure that allows freedom and speed, and replaces the hierarchical models with structures that are flatter and adequate for stronger and more efficient communication. Such a structure will allow bottom-up decision making and self-management and will capitalize on the advantages of employing multicultural teams; the diversified capacities, knowledge and business perception of these teams will be conducive to more in-depth innovation and creativity. Virtual teams can provide an organization with a solid opportunity to compete, making it easier to adapt to different situations and reducing conflicts. This chapter reflects the results of a study conducted in Egypt that targeted the determination of the possibility of reducing multicultural team conflicts by establishing a corporate culture that could have a strong influence on team members using virtual teams. The study covered six organizations operating through virtual multicultural teams and describes the analysis of the findings that relate to the role of corporate culture, the management style, and conflict resolution, among other elements. Global organizations face the challenge of operating through global multicultural teams whose members—coming from different cultural backgrounds—often stumble into conflicts that influence the overall performance of the organization. The core issue of this study is the impact of multicultural team conflicts on the overall organizational performance. Therefore, the objective of the study was to examine the relationship between corporate culture and multicultural team conflicts and to determine whether it is possible to reduce multicultural team conflicts by building a corporate culture in which all individual cultures would fit and where the management plays a vital role in transmitting the corporate culture to different teams in order to help global organizations become more efficient using virtual multicultural teams.
Alternative Delivery Mechanisms in Distance Education
Authors: Hunter M. Gordon , Carr Peter
Published: April 2011

Technology is providing a positive impact on delivery mechanisms employed in distance education at the university level. Some institutions are incorporating distance education as a way to extend the classroom. Other institutions are investigating new delivery mechanisms that support a revised perspective on education. These latter institutions are revising their processes for interacting with students and taking a more “learner-centered” approach to the delivery of education. This chapter discusses the impact of technology on the delivery mechanisms employed in distance education. A framework is proposed here that presents a description of alternative modes of generic delivery mechanisms. It is suggested that those institutions that adopt a delivery mechanism employing an asynchronous mode can gain the most benefit from technology. This approach seems to represent the only truly innovative use of technology in distance education. The approach creates a student-oriented environment while maintaining high levels of interaction, both of which are factors that contribute to student satisfaction with their overall educational experience.
New Challenges in Privacy Protection
Authors: Janczewski Lech J.
Published: April 2011

The protection of privacy is a function of many variables: culture, politics, and point of view. Practically all countries have introduced laws regulating these problems. Terrorist attacks culminating with the destruction of the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington indicated a need to change these regulations. Therefore, this chapter defines the notion of privacy and cites typical regulations related to the protection of privacy and the interception of private communications and documents. This discussion terminates with a presentation of a worldwide prognosis in this field.
Transfer of Information Technology to the Arab World
Authors: Straub Detmar W. , Loch Karen D. , Hill Carole E.
Published: April 2011

The complex societal beliefs and values of the Arab world provide a rich setting to examine the hypothesized influence of culture on information technology transfer (ITT). Two research questions arise in this context: (1) Do cultural beliefs and values affect the transference of information technology in the Arab world? and (2) Does contact with technologically advanced societies impact ITT and systems outcomes? The present study addresses these research questions by conceptualizing and testing a cultural influence model of ITT. In this model, cultural beliefs and values are one major construct while a counterbalancing variable is the external influence of technologically advanced societies. These constructs along with the variable “national IT development” form the conceptual basis for the model. This study is the second part of a program of research investigating ITT. The setting of the study was Arab society, which allowed us to test our “cultural influence” model in, perhaps, one of the more complex cultural and social systems in the world. The program of research took place in several phases. In the early phases, Arab-American businessmen and women as well as Arabs studying in American universities were studied. In the latter phases, the cross-disciplinary research team gathered primary data in the Arab cultures of Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and the Sudan. Both quantitative and qualitative techniques were used to explore the phenomenon of ITT. This paper reports quantitative findings from the latter phase. Findings suggest that the model has explanatory power. Arab cultural beliefs were a very strong predictor of resistance to systems and thus ITT; technological culturation was also a factor. These results have implications for future theory-testing and for technology policy-setting by responsible Arab leaders. Additionally, there are implications for transnational firms and managers charged with introducing IT in foreign ports, subsidiaries, offices, and plants.
Intangible Determinants in the Introduction and Development of Information Technology
Authors: del Aguila Ana R. , Bruque Sebastián , Padilla Antonio
Published: April 2011

In a global and highly competitive context, the human-machine interaction re-emerges as an important topic of research among IS academics and practitioners. In this chapter, we propose an empirical analysis applied to the Pharmaceutical Distribution Industry in Spain, with the aim of detecting the influence that some human and managerial intangibles have on the level of effective implementation of IT in organizations. Finally, we present some theoretical and managerial implications that can be applied not only for the Spanish case, but also for the European Union and for a global environment.
An Overview of the Diffusion of Advanced Techniques
Authors: Askarany Davood
Published: April 2011

This chapter addresses a variety of factors influencing the diffusion of advanced techniques in organizations with particular reference to advanced cost and management accounting practices. Having identified almost all of influencing factors addressed in the literature, this chapter also develops a model for the diffusion of advanced techniques and clarifies the most significant group of influencing factors responsible for such a diffusion process from users’ point of view. Addressing diffusion of advanced techniques in the global environment as a practical issue requires global evidence, which is almost impossible to provide in a single study. However, to address such an issue and to explore significant factors influencing the diffusion of advanced techniques in the organizations, this chapter relies on the results of recent surveys on the diffusion of advanced cost and management accounting techniques as an example. The diffusion model developed in this chapter is more likely to be applicable to any diffusion study, investigating the diffusion process of either accounting or non-accounting advanced techniques in the global environment, with minor modification.
Information and Communication Technology in Singapore
Authors: Hin Leo Tan Wee , Subramaniam R.
Published: April 2011

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) hold great potential for promoting socioeconomic development in many developing countries. ICT has not significantly percolated down the economic value chain in these countries for various reasons. The example of Singapore is used to show how governments can make a difference in entrenching a vibrant ICT sector through appropriate policies, programs, and other intervention instruments. It is suggested that aspects of the Singapore experience would be useful for other developing countries.
Using Cognitive Ability and Personality to Select Information Technology Professionals
Authors: Witt L. A. , Burke L. A.
Published: April 2011

In order to achieve competitive advantage, 21st century organizations will make substantial investments in information technology (IT). Effective human resource practices in the IT field will therefore be critical. We investigated the applicability of general mental ability and personality test scores in predicting high-performing IT professionals. Data collected from 94 information technology employees in a service industry firm were compared with supervisory ratings along four orthogonal criteria; technical proficiency, relationship management skills, adherence to documentation standards and requirements, and self-initiated professional development. Results were partially supportive of the hypotheses and provide impetus for further work investigating applications of these tests to predict programmer performance in staffing and selection processes.
Cultural Differences in E-Commerce
Authors: Bin Qiu , Sun Shao Q.
Published: April 2011

This chapter discusses the importance of identifying cultural problems of the online globalization and points out that payment and logistic systems and language are the primary factors that every firm should take into account in the process of their online globalization. Next, the chapter identifies the characteristics and trends of the Internet and e-commerce in China. In the third part, the chapter differentiates e-commerce in the U.S. with China through analyzing Internet users’ behaviors especially their attitudes toward different payment systems in these two countries. Finally, it discusses how to remove language barriers to enhance net growth. In conclusion, this chapter will suggest some recommendations on how to expand business via the Internet by reducing the gap between the two cultures.
A Contigency Theory for Online Customer Retention
Authors: Khalifa Mohamed , Limayem Moez , Liu Vanessa
Published: April 2011

Customer retention, or repurchase, is one of the main factors that help to create and maintain the competitiveness and sustainability of an organization. With the proliferation of B2C electronic commerce, retention has become even more important to Internet merchants who sell online, where customers are provided with a wide variety of choices and competition is globally severe. As opposed to pageviews and click through ratios, repurchase provides a more revealing metric of the effectiveness of websites. It is therefore important to explain and identify the determinants of online customer retention. Previous IS research on online shopping mainly focused on adoption and usage issues. Very few studies, however, examined whether customers made repurchases after they were attracted to and satisfied with the buying experience and product. In this study, we develop, operationalize and empirically test a model that explains online consumer retention as measured by repurchase. Our findings demonstrated that the direct effect of satisfaction on repurchase is positively moderated by online shopping habit. This research also highlights and identifies specific factors affecting customer retention that should help practitioners in formulating the appropriate marketing strategies.
Using a GSS to Support Virtual Team-Building
Authors: Huang Wayne W. , Wei Kwok-Kee , Lim John
Published: April 2011

This chapter deals with the use of a group support system (GSS) to support virtual team-building. Literature review on Group Support Systems (GSS) indicates that most prior GSS research focuses on supporting face-to-face teamwork, and few studies were conducted in supporting virtual teamwork and team-building. When virtual teamwork becomes more common in modern organizations, how GSS can be used to enhance virtual team-building is becoming an important research issue. This chapter proposes a conceptual team-building framework. By embedding this conceptual framework into a GSS, the GSS may have the potential to support virtual team-building. Based on the framework, a set of testable research propositions is formulated, and some suggestions for future GSS research are discussed.
STP Technology and Global Financial Market
Authors: Chen Yining , Huang Wayne W. , Hee Jarrad
Published: April 2011

Straight Through Processing (STP) is the end-to-end automation of security trading process from order to settlement. It is to be used for cross-border trades to speed up settlement, reduce risk, and build the foundation for a more effective and efficient settlement process. To remain competitive, financial firms need to take actions promptly to address the opportunities and challenges brought about by STP from a global perspective of electronic business. Global STP capability may not be achieved by simply initiating a series of projects to address the challenges. It needs to be approached by a well-orchestrated re-engineering activity and enterprise-wide technology solutions. This paper presents a general model of security trading processes under the umbrella of STP, and proposes a framework of STP readiness assessment from a global perspective of electronic business, which can be used to guide the STP implementation in organizations.
Fundamental Risk Factors in Deploying IT/IS Projects in Omani Government Organisations
Authors: Al-Wohaidi Mohammed A. , Masoud Fawaz A. , Edwards Helen M.
Published: April 2011

Deploying IT systems has always presented a combination of challenges and risks to decision-makers. Many IT projects have failed to accomplish their cost, schedule, or technical performance objectives. However, the factors that are encountered in deploying IT/IS projects in developing countries differ from those encountered in developed countries due to cultural and organisational reasons. Oman is one developing country that has started, slowly, exploring the use of computer systems to help in improving their business. The case is made that Oman needs to have a coherent IT strategic vision at the national level. Implementing this vision into detailed strategies depends on the high awareness of the positive role IT can play in the economy, counterbalanced by the ability to manage the associated risks. The factors that are associated with implementing IT/IS in Omani government organisations are: human resource deficiency, organisational inefficiencies, and the immaturity of the IT business culture. The risk factors that arise in the context of the Omani culture are contrasted with those that have been reported in the literature.
Legislation Systems Project
Authors: Hocking Lynley
Published: April 2011

The LSP is a project where computerised technology has been used in an innovative manner to assist the creation of and access to legislation in Tasmania, Australia. It has had significant organisational implications and provides an insight into the computerisation of core government processes and the professional area of legal drafting. Particularly, it has induced standardisation and an increasingly technocratic approach with process, role and authority structure changes.
Adoption of Electronic Data Interchange in Small-and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Authors: Chau Patrick Y.K. , Liu Vanessa
Published: April 2011

As more and more small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME) adopt information technology (IT) in their daily business operations and even in their strategic planning, the positive impacts of IT are no longer a privilege of large organizations. However, there has been little research conducted and published on the adoption of electronic data interchange (EDI) in SME. Most previous studies on EDI in SME used the case study approach, thus limiting the generalizability of their findings. This study adopts the survey approach to conduct a large-scale empirical study of the key factors that influence EDI adoption in the SME context. A research model consisting of seven factors under three categories, namely characteristics of innovation, organizational context and external influence was proposed and tested against data collected from 644 SME using logistic regression analysis. The findings indicate that the critical factors that determine EDI adoption in the SME context are perceived direct benefits, perceived cost, IT knowledge, government incentives and enforcement, and trading partners’ influence. Implications for both research and practice are discussed.
A Comparative Analysis of Major ERP Life Cycle Implementation, Management and Support Issues in Queensland Government
Authors: Chang She-I , Gable Guy G.
Published: April 2011

This chapter reports on a study of issues across the ERP life cycle from the perspectives of individuals with substantial and diverse involvement with SAP Financials in Queensland Government. A survey was conducted of 117 ERP system project participants in five closely related state government agencies. Through a modified Delphi technique, the study inventoried, synthesized, then weighted perceived major-issues in ongoing ERP life cycle implementation, management, and support. The five agencies each implemented SAP Financials simultaneously using a common implementation partner. The three Delphi survey rounds, together with a series of interviews and domain experts’ workshops, resulted in a set of 10 major-issue categories with 38 sub-issues. Sub-issue weights are compared between strategic and operational personnel within the agencies in order to understand where the organizations should focus their resources in order to avoid, minimise, or eliminate these issues. Study findings confirm the importance of this finer partitioning of the data, and distinctions identified reflect the unique circumstances across the stakeholder groups. The study findings should be of interest to stakeholders who seek to better understand the issues surrounding ERP systems and to better realize the benefits of ERP.
Relationship of Some Organizational Factors to Information Systems Effectiveness
Authors: Seliem Ahmed A.M. , Ashour Ahmed S. , Khalil Omar E.M. , Millar Stephen J.
Published: April 2011

Most of the empirical evidence on the effectiveness of information systems and their determinants is confined to the use of data from Western countries. Evidence from other environments, where the social, economic, and cultural characteristics vary, is needed before generalizations can be made. This chapter reports on an investigation designed to explore the relationship of three organizational factors—top management support, user involvement, and the maturity of the IS function—to systems effectiveness in an Egyptian setting. Data was collected from 214 managers, and the results indicate that the three organizational variables positively associate with systems effectiveness, measured by user information satisfaction and system use in improving decision making. Also, user’s tenure in the organization and ownership type were found to affect the relationships between the system’s effectiveness measures and the three organizational variables. These findings are discussed and implications are offered. The findings of this study suggest that the positive relationships of top management support, user involvement, and IS maturity to systems effectiveness may transcend cultural differences. This empirical evidence contributes to the external and international validity of the similar Western-based findings, which, in turn, add to the efforts toward building a general theory of trans-national global information systems (GISs).
Comparing Metamodels for ER, ORM and UML Data Models
Authors: Halpin Terry
Published: April 2011

This chapter provides metamodels for some of the main database modeling notations used in industry. Two Entity Relationship (ER) notations (Information Engineering and Barker ER) are examined in detail, as well as Object Role Modeling (ORM) conceptual schema diagrams. The discussion of optionality, cardinality and multiplicity is widened to include Unified Modeling Language (UML) class diagrams. Issues addressed in the metamodel analysis include the normalization impact of non-derived constraints on derived associations, the influence of orthogonality on language transparency, and trade-offs between simplicity and expressibility. To facilitate comparison, the same modeling notation is used to display each metamodel. For this purpose, ORM is used because of its greater expressibility and clarity.
An Evaluation Framework for Component-Based and Service-Oriented System Development Methodologies
Authors: Stojanovic Zoran , Dahanayake Ajantha , Sol Henk
Published: April 2011

Components-Based Development (CBD) and Web Services (WS) nowadays are prominent paradigms for implementing and deploying advanced distributed information systems. They have been proposed as the ways to support effective business/IT alignment and produce high quality and flexible software solutions that fulfill business goals within short time-to-market. However, current achievements in these areas at the level of methodology are much behind the technology ones. CBD methods proposed so far lack a comprehensive support for component and service concepts throughout the development process. By treating components as packages of implementation artifacts during software deployment or as larger-grained business objects during analysis and design, these methods are not well equipped for modeling loosely coupled coarse-grained components that offer business meaningful services organized in a Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA). This chapter presents an evaluation framework that highlights the extent to which a particular method is component-based and service-oriented. The CBD method sample is selected and evaluated using the framework’s concepts and requirements. Based on the evaluation, the method improvements are proposed in order to provide consistent, systematic, and integrated CBD and WS methodology support throughout the lifecycle.
Improving the Understandability of Dynamic Semantics
Authors: Dominguez Eladio , Rubio Angel L. , Zapata María A.
Published: April 2011

A clear understanding of the dynamic semantics of languages involved in the representation of behavior is essential for a large and varied audience such as final users of these languages, CASE tool builders or method engineers. This chapter introduces a proposal aimed at achieving such an understanding by suggesting a different metamodeling approach. This approach is based on a two layer architecture which puts forward the explicit distinction between the generic behavior represented in a dynamic model (Base Layer) and the behavior represented in relation to a particular situation (Snapshot Layer). Using this architecture as a starting point, a metamodel of UML State Machines is proposed, which consists basically of two UML class diagrams (one diagram for each layer of the architecture) and two maps. These maps represent, respectively, the determination of the initial status and the process performed by a run to completion step as defined in the UML semantics.
Normalization of Relations with Nulls in Candidate Keys
Authors: Philip George C.
Published: April 2011

This chapter discusses normalization of relations when the candidate keys of a relation have missing information represented by nulls. The chapter shows that problems and confusion can arise in normalizing relations with nulls in candidate keys. Candidate keys with missing information commonly are found in relations that represent information on two entities with a one-to-one relationship between them. The current definition of Boyce-Codd Normal Form (BCNF) is ineffective in identifying poor designs in such relations that may have insertion/deletion anomalies. Domain Key Normal Form (DKNF) also suffers from the same problem. It is shown that the above problem can be corrected by incorporating the concept of entity integrity rule into the definitions of BCNF and DKNF. This chapter also shows that incorporating the entity integrity rule into the definition of either a relation or a candidate key does not provide a satisfactory solution to the problem.
Toward an Extended Framework for Human Factors Research on Data Modeling
Authors: Topi Heikki , Ramesh V.
Published: April 2011

This study reviews and synthesizes over 15 years of research on human factors issues in conceptual data modeling. In addition to analyzing the variables used in earlier studies and summarizing the results of this stream of research, we propose a new framework to help with future efforts in this area. We also identify several key areas for future research and highlight the importance of building a strong theoretical foundation and using it to guide future empirical studies. It is our hope that this chapter allows both scholars and practitioners to utilize the results of existing research better and encourages continued work on conceptual data modeling.
Modeling Motion
Authors: Gelbard Roy , Spiegler Israel
Published: April 2011

The research proposes a model for the representation and storage of motion data that enables the communication, storage, and analysis of patterns of motion, as with spoken and written languages. The basic problem is the lack of a machine-readable motion alphabet. We thus set out to define the elemental components and building blocks of motion, coming up with what we call the motion byte as the basis for a motion language that has words, phrases, and sentences. The binary-based model we develop, which is significantly different from the common “key frames” approach, is also a method of storing motion data. Comparison with a standard motion system, based on key frames, indicates a significant advantage for our binary model.
TAM or Just Plain Habit
Authors: Gefen David
Published: April 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.
Assessing Customer Perceptions of Web Site Service Quality in Digital Marketing Environments
Authors: Wang Yi-Shun , Tang Tzung-I
Published: April 2011

E-commerce literature has rarely addressed the measurement of customer perceptions of web site service quality in digital marketing environments. It is argued that the current SERVQUAL and IS-SERVQUAL instruments need to be refined and validated to fit the digital marketing environment, as they are targeted primarily towards either traditional retailing or information systems contexts. This article validates and refines a comprehensive model and instrument for measuring customer perceived service quality of web sites that market digital products and services. After a discussion of the conceptualization and operationalization of the service quality construct, the procedure used in modifying items, collecting data, and validating a multiple-item scale is described. Subsequently, evidence of reliability and validity on the basis of analyzing data from a quota sample of 260 adult respondents is presented. Implications for practice and research are then explored. Finally, this chapter concludes by discussing limitations that could be addressed in future studies. The final EC-SERVQUAL instrument with good reliability and validity will be essential to the development and testing of e-business theories, and provide researchers with a common framework for explaining, justifying, and comparing difference across results.
Website Retailing
Authors: Leonard Lori N.K. , Cronan Timothy Paul
Published: April 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 (e-tailing).
A Meta-Analysis Approach toward the Development of an Integrative Framework for Online Consumer Behavior Research
Authors: Saeed Khawaja A. , Hwang Yujong , Yi Mun Y.
Published: April 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 was 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. Forty-two studies published in major IS journals were located via computer searches of large bibliographic databases (UMI-Proquest and ScienceDirect) and by scanning journals manually. We group these studies into three categories of web use, online purchase, and post-purchase behavior, and describe important predictors identified by those studies for each category. We also conducted a meta-analysis to quantify the interrelationships between the study variables that appeared multiple times across studies. We then introduce a framework, which 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. Consumer characteristics and social context variables are also included in the framework. Future research directions are identified to advance the current status of knowledge and stimulate further research.
Understanding Web Information Search Behavior
Authors: Hodkinson Christopher , Kiel Geoffrey
Published: April 2011

This chapter develops a model of consumer Web search behavior. The model is derived from consumer external information search behavior models and also those relating to search behavior in physical and hypertext environments. Personal demographic and behavioral variables, which have been found to affect search behavior in conventional consumer information environments, are also discussed. Some of the unique features of the Web search environment are identified and the navigational skills required of Web searching consumers are considered. The relevance of personal Web skill and experience variables is also reviewed. A taxonomy of Web search actions is proposed as the basis for recording Web search behavior. The outcomes of information search behavior are discussed from decision-making and affective viewpoints. The variables discussed are then combined into a proposed model of Web search behavior and a research agenda detailed.
Motivation and Search Intensity
Authors: Lueg Jason E. , Moore Robert S. , Warkentin Merrill
Published: April 2011

The Internet is drawing consumers in search of information about a broad range of topics. In order to understand how consumers search for and benefit from information online, this chapter presents a set of hypotheses and an explanatory model concerning web-based information search behavior. Our model was tested within the patient health domain, wherein consumers are often highly motivated to seek relevant information. The analysis suggests that there is a clear link between an individual’s health and his or her use of online health information, and also that the search intensity that individuals undertake results in an increased propensity to talk with health care providers about the information.1 Though the context of our data analysis has limitations related to the source of the data (in the health domain), it can nevertheless be generalized that the higher the consumer’s involvement with the decision, the higher the motivation to seek information online.
Customer Perceptions of a Thin-Client Micro-Payment System
Authors: Dai Xiaoling , Grundy John
Published: April 2011

Two fundamental payment methods exist for online information purchase: macro-payment and micro-payment. Traditional macro-payment methods, like credit and charge cards and digital currency, are suitable for large-value, low-volume transactions. However, large-volume, low-value commodities, such as discrete units of information from a website, better suit a micro-payment model. In micro-payment, customers pay for large numbers of small value goods (e.g., per-web page view) with “e-coins”, typically of very small value each. We have carried out an empirical assessment of micro-payment and macro-payment purchasing models for an online newspaper application. We report on the design of our experiment, the two kinds of micro-payment (client and server-side e-wallets) used, and customer feedback. We also carried out an assessment of customer effort and economic trade-off when using these services, and compared the results of this assessment to a survey of customers using each system. We present directions for further online payment research aiming to improve the overall satisfaction and efficiency of payment models for end users.
Virtual Reality, Involvement and the Consumer Interface
Authors: Gammack John , Hodkinson Christopher
Published: April 2011

Consumer purchasing online is considered, with interactivity highlighted as a critical end-user issue. Levels of user interactivity up to and including virtual reality environments are now realistic in e-tailing. Conceptualizing interactivity to recognize the relevance of perceptions to consumer engagement motivates a focus on the user interface. Aspects relating to trust, usability and involvement are identified, and examined in a series of linked studies focusing on hedonic and high-involvement products, particularly surfboards. Preliminary studies across a range of businesses and products indicated consumer willingness to purchase hedonic products online, but many businesses imposed a high workload on online purchasers. Despite successful web marketing of hedonic products such as CDs, we found that no contemporary providers of customized surfboards offered finished product e-tailing, nor used virtual reality technology to demonstrate performance. A real case study of online swimwear purchase demonstrated an improved purchase process. “Beachtown”, a virtual reality e-tailing environment related to a coastal tourism economy allowed further examination of apparel, surfboard and holiday purchase. Results indicate that an enhanced interactive virtual environment increases end user involvement and willingness to purchase.