Date of Award

12-1997

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

Michael Morris, Major, USAF

Abstract

This thesis identifies managerial, organizational, and individual attributes which influence Internet technology infusion. Infusion can be defined as the incorporation of a technology into an organization's key processes. As infusion increases, the extended, integrative and emergent use of the technology increases, leading to increased leveraging of the technology. A survey was distributed to 1100 Air Force members throughout four Major Commands, divided into 600 officers and 500 enlisted. The analysis used Structural Equation Modeling to test models relating managerial, organizational and individual constructs as positive influences on infusion. Findings in the officer group indicate executive involvement and participation, policy, receptivity to change and personal responsibility influence integrative use of Internet technology. Management support, policy, and receptivity to change were found to influence extended use. Extended and integrative use were found to lead to emergent use. Similar results were found in the enlisted group, with three exceptions: ease of use influenced integrative use, while receptivity to change did not; and integrative use did not lead to emergent use. The findings suggest ways for organizations to encourage higher-level use of Internet technology. In addition, differences between the two groups highlighted the need for organization's Internet strategy to account for individual differences.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GIR-LAS-97D-6

DTIC Accession Number

ADA335462

Comments

Thesis presented to the Faculty of the Graduate School of Logistics and Acquisitions Management.

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