Intentions to Use Groupware: The Influence of Users' Perceptions

Abstract

Information technologies that support groups of individuals have become increasingly visible. While some of these, such as electronic mail, have become almost ubiquitous in many organizations, other groupware applications have not enjoyed similar acceptance. This study uses diffusion of innovation theory to investigate factors that may influence intentions to use a specific groupware application, Lotus Domino discussion databases. Findings indicate that intentions to use Domino discussion databases are impacted by perceptions of relative advantage, complexity, compatibility and result demonstrability. There was not a significant relationship between intentions to use and perceived trialability, visibility or voluntariness. Suggestions for positively impacting important perceptions are also offered. Those interested in increasing the use of groupware technologies may find these suggestions helpful in guiding their efforts.