Our results suggest the opportunity to explore more fully ways of operationalizing the ethics construct. Conclusion Softlifting is as complex a phenomenon as it is prevalent, and individuals are continually faced with the opportunity to copy software without the authority to do so. Demonstrating the Intention to softlift under a variety of scenarios has been shown to be a function of several variables in one's Background . This result supports the existence of Path 1 on our proposed model, and work is underway to investigate the two remaining paths. To the extent that we can uncover the correlates to softlifting, the IS profession will be positioned to offer guidance on methods and policies to minimize the occurrence.
Further work is required to understand more fully the dynamics leading to softlifting.
The authors would like to thank Professors Robert D. Rogers and Gautam Vora for their insightful assistance with the data analysis. Any remaining errors are the full responsibility of the authors. Appreciation to the UNM Anderson Schools of Management Research Allocations Committee for funding in support of this work.