Personality and Motivational Factors Predicting Internet Abuse at Work

The present study investigates whether a personality variable (Locus of Control) and motivational factors rooted in Uses & Gratifications theory (the desire for virtual community, beautiful websites, maintaining interpersonal relations, and the desire for diversion & entertainment) predict Internet abuse at work in the form of shopping, searching for information unrelated to work, and communicating with friends. Data were analyzed for 320 participants, all of whom were employed and had access to computers at work. Results indicate that external Locus of Control predicts all three forms of Internet abuse. The desire to use the Internet for diversion and entertainment purposes predicts only online shopping and searching for non-work-related information. Results suggest that factors predicting some forms of Internet abuse may not predict other forms of Internet abuse. Implications for research and practice are discussed

Reducing Software Requirement Perception Gaps Through Coordination Mechanisms

Users and information system professionals view the world differently. This perception difference leads to an inability to fully define the information requirements of a new system. Practitioners understand this difficulty and look for solid approaches to address the problem. A model is developed that links coordination mechanisms and project partnering practices to perception gaps and project success. The premise is to use the model to confirm the expected relationships and examine coordination practices in particular for effectiveness in promoting common understanding. Survey results from information system project professionals indicate that the managerial interventions of coordination and partnering are successful in reducing the perception gaps and improving project performance. Prior research had not established a link. The results support the principle that organizations must install specific coordination techniques and implement partnering procedures prior to the commencement of project activities. © 2008

The Negative Impact Of Conflict On The Information System Development Process, Product, And Project

Prior research in information systems generally finds that conflict during development can only have a negative impact and cannot be controlled even through effective processes. However, the literature examines direct impact to project success measures without considering the process as a mediator nor possible beneficial effects on criteria other than traditional measures of project budget and schedule. We extend the study of conflict by considering the quality of the software product in addition to the project measures and include the process as a specific mediator. Results from a survey of system developers finds that conflict does indeed impact both measures negatively and is not fully mediated by effective processes. Researchers and practitioners should turn their attentions earlier in a development project to prevent the detrimental effects of conflict