The dimensions of accessibility to online information: implications for implementing office information systems

Abstract

Prior research has found a positive correlation between the perceived accessibility of information and information use. The underlying dimensions of information accessibility, however, have not been investigated empirically. The present field study measures end-user perceptions of three online information retrieval systems and one electronic mail system. User ratings of the four systems are collected and factor-analyzed. The results suggest that (1)physical access to a terminal and access to the actual information system are independent dimensions, (2) that accessibility is a multidimensional concept encompassing physical access to a terminal and the system, the command language, and the ability to retrieve the desired information successfully, and (3) that perceptions of accessibility are a function of prior user experience with online systems. In order to facilitate the acceptance of office information systems, organizations need to provide extensive support and training when the system is introduced, as well as ready physical access to the system over the course of its useful life.