Discretionary use of personal computers by knowledge workers: testing of a social psychology theoretical model

Abstract

Understanding the discretionary use of computers by knowledge workers has been a central issue of information systems research. However, previous research has reflected a limited theoretical perspective and has overlooked important theories from other reference disciplines. This lack of theoretical foundation might provide a potential explanation for the mixed empirical support that has been found. To identify the factors which condition the discretionary use of computers, this research utilizes a well-accepted theoretical framework from the field of social psychology (Triandis 1971; 1977, 1980). Responses were obtained from 355 faculty members of a Southeastern US university, and data analysis was performed using bivariate as well as traditional and second generation multivariate techniques. The results obtained from this study confirm that Triandis' theory of behaviour should be applied for understanding and explaining computer usage behaviour in a voluntary environment. Interestingly, it was found that personal factors have a more important influence on behaviour than social or environmental factors in such context.