Title
Perceived critical mass and the adoption of a communication technology
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
ISSN
0960-085X
Recommended Citation
"Perceived critical mass and the adoption of a communication technology" (2007). Faculty Bibliography 2000s. 7735.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/facultybib2000/7735
Comments
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