Title

Perceived critical mass and the adoption of a communication technology

Authors

Authors

C. Van Slyke; V. Ilie; H. Lou;T. Stafford

Comments

Authors: contact us about adding a copy of your work at STARS@ucf.edu

Abbreviated Journal Title

Eur. J. Inform. Syst.

Keywords

adoption; acceptance; Theory of Reasoned Action; Diffusion of; Innovation; instant messaging; INFORMATION-TECHNOLOGY; USER ACCEPTANCE; INDIVIDUAL PROFESSIONALS; ELECTRONIC-MAIL; MODEL; USAGE; BELIEFS; INTENTION; DIFFUSION; BEHAVIOR; Computer Science, Information Systems; Information Science & Library; Science

Abstract

Computer-based communication technologies are increasingly important to personal and organizational communication. One important factor related to the adoption and diffusion of communication innovations is critical mass. Critical mass influences the adoption and diffusion of interactive communication innovations, both through network externalities and through sustainability of the innovation. Unfortunately, critical mass is difficult to measure and is typically only demonstrable after the critical mass point has been reached. Potential adopters' perceptions of critical mass also may be important to adoption decisions. In this paper, we extend this thinking using a synthesis of the Theory of Reasoned Action and Diffusion of Innovation theory by developing a research model. The model is empirically tested using survey data that are analyzed using partial least squares. The focal innovation is instant messaging. Results indicate that perceived critical mass influences use intentions directly and through perceptions of the characteristics of the innovation. The perceived innovation characteristics impact attitude toward use, which in turn impacts use intentions. The model predicts a sizable and significant portion of both attitudes and use intentions. Further, perceived critical mass is able to explain a significant portion of the variance in each perceived innovation characteristic. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Journal Title

European Journal of Information Systems

Volume

16

Issue/Number

3

Publication Date

1-1-2007

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

270

Last Page

283

WOS Identifier

WOS:000248448300008

ISSN

0960-085X

Share

COinS