The successful adoption of groupware: perceptions of the users

Abstract

This study was conducted to allow the end-users of groupware systems to voice their opinions about the systems. Thirty one-on-one interviews were carried out with members of different organizations and who used different groupware systems. The qualitative data was analyzed and several consistent themes emerged in response to the questions we asked regarding the expectations of the system and the variables that fostered or hindered the successful adoption of the system. Results indicated that many expectations of the users had not been met by the system, and that the variables of enough training and technical support while in the initial stages of learning to use the systems were by far the most important in the adoption process.

What users think about groupware: A case study.

“…However, improved communication and the organization of information are unique outcomes, in the sense that they are not met with the same controversy that plague other supposed groupware benefits. For example, in the present study, as well as in the findings of King (1996), almost all the participants indicated that the management and coordination of their business meetings were not facilitated by the groupware, contrary to findings elsewhere (e.g., Kline & Gardiner, 1997).…”

“…The results also parallel those from Kline and Gardiner (1997). However, there was one significant omission.…”

“…In sum, there seem to be five variables necessary for promoting user acceptance and adoption of groupware that are com mon to the majority of previous studies (e.g., Davis, 1986;Kline & Gardiner, 1997;Taylor & Todd, 1995), as well as the current one. They are:…”

“…Some results of these studies are consistent with previous findings. Groupware does seem to be a viable option for improving the organization, storage, and transfer of files, documents, and information in general (e.g., Kline & Gardiner, 1997). Similar to this, communication is also facilitated via groupware use (e.g., Kraemer & King, 1988).…”

“…It seems intu itive that user acceptance would be great ly facilitated if users were "actively con sulted about what their groupware needs were such that a system could be pur chased to meet their needs" (Kline, 1999, p. 304). The involvement of users in the decision-making process to adopt groupware was the third most common variable for fostering user acceptance of groupware mentioned in the Kline and Gardiner (1997) study. Fortunately, Consultation is included on the Groupware Adoption Scale, and users rated it as highly impor tant for strengthening their commitment to learn and use the system, and improving their attitudes toward groupware.…”