Title
Perceived Critical Mass And The Adoption Of A Communication Technology
Keywords
Acceptance; Adoption; Diffusion of Innovation; Instant messaging; Theory of Reasoned Action
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. © 2007 Operational Research Society Ltd. All rights reserved.
Publication Date
1-1-2007
Publication Title
European Journal of Information Systems
Volume
16
Issue
3
Number of Pages
270-283
Document Type
Article
Personal Identifier
scopus
DOI Link
https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.ejis.3000680
Copyright Status
Unknown
Socpus ID
34547573146 (Scopus)
Source API URL
https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/34547573146
STARS Citation
Van Slyke, Craig; Ilie, Virginia; Lou, Hao; and Stafford, Thomas, "Perceived Critical Mass And The Adoption Of A Communication Technology" (2007). Scopus Export 2000s. 7318.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/scopus2000/7318