Title: Understanding mobile-ICT implementation in the workplace: knowledge versus traditional users

Authors: A. Miguel Amaral

Addresses: Centre for Innovation, Technology and Policy Research IN+, Instituto Superior Tecnico, Technical University of Lisbon, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal

Abstract: This paper aims to propose central elements for understanding the underlying processes embedded in the use and adoption of mobile information and communication technologies (mobile ICT) in firms. Organisational and sociotechnical aspects are approached using a multiple-case study of different companies in Portugal, following their simultaneous adoption of new specific mobile technologies. Although evidence shows that users typically report positive perceptions about the technological and contextual benefits of mobile ICT – such as technological adequacy for mobile work, swiftness and quality of service, information and communication access, relationships with colleagues, chiefs and external partners or the potential to foster daily timesaving – results found different usage and learning patterns among |knowledge workers| and |traditional workers|. Different modes of adaptive activity are assessed and discussed, highlighting the role played by users as key agents of change.

Keywords: mobile ICT; implementation; adoption; adaptation; knowledge users; traditional users; organisational innovation; technological change; multiple-case study; Portugal; information technology; communications; change agents; mobile communications.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTPM.2007.015114

International Journal of Technology, Policy and Management, 2007 Vol.7 No.3, pp.322 - 338

Published online: 14 Sep 2007 *

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