Title: A socio-technical approach to broadband diffusion by SMEs

Authors: Oluwasola Oni, Anastasia Papazafeiropoulou

Addresses: School of Information Systems, Computing and Mathematics, St John's, Brunel University, Kingston lane, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 3PH, UK. ' School of Information Systems, Computing and Mathematics, St John's, Brunel University, Kingston lane, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 3PH, UK

Abstract: Technological deterministic theories such as Diffusion of Innovations (DOIs) theory provide a useful view of the diffusion process of new technologies. However, the view provided is limited, as it mainly looks at the supply side of the diffusion process hence, the need for the ability to examine various sides that influence the diffusion of new technologies. The Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) provides an avenue to examine such views. In this paper, we examine the adoption of broadband by Small/Medium size Enterprises (SMEs) using a proposed framework that applies notions from SCOT. An initial application of the framework shows perception gaps among the social groups involved in the diffusion process of broadband. These gaps might explain the slow take up of broadband by SMEs in the UK.

Keywords: broadband diffusion; small and medium-sized enterprises; UK SMEs; diffusion of innovation; DOI; United Kingdom; social construction of technology; SCOT; socio-technical approach.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2008.018796

International Journal of Knowledge Management Studies, 2008 Vol.2 No.3, pp.335 - 348

Published online: 18 Jun 2008 *

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