Factors affecting ICT diffusion: A case study of three large Australian construction contractors

Abstract

Purpose – To address the critical issue of how best to adopt and diffuse information and communication technology (ICT) into organisations. Design/methodology/approach – During April and May 2002, a survey of ICT diffusion of ICT users from three construction organisations was conducted. Findings – Results from an earlier phase of this study indicated that 11 factors influence ICT diffusion. The aim of this paper is to report on phase 2 study results within three construction organisations based on the 11 factors found to influence ICT diffusion. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with five to six ICT users and an implementer for each of the case study companies. Originality/value – Three factors were found to have a weak influence on ICT diffusion, while eight have a strong influence. These influencing factors may be grouped into four interrelated categories: management, individual, technology, and work environment. Their inter-relationship should be coherently and comprehensively addressed.