The Matthew effect in information use: Implications for the new enterprise

Abstract

The "Matthew effect" ("unto them that hath shall be given, from them that hath not shall be taken away") contains implications for access to information in organizations. The literature of the new enterprise makes the case that all staff should be extensive users of information. The present study explores differential use of information by educational level and finds that whereas least educated staff report receiving most information on a variety of topics, paradoxically they report making least use of information sources. Least well educated staff may have relatively lowest awareness of the information that could be available to them. Further, increased education may be associated both with a better realization of the information that is available and increased use of information sources. Implications for managerial practice are briefly explored.information use Matthew effect education organizational communication knowledge gap hypothesis