Date of Award

3-14-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Operational Sciences

First Advisor

Joseph B Skipper, PhD.

Abstract

This thesis employed a mixed methods approach to address the root causes of less than optimal use of the Medical/Surgical Prime Vendor program. Using techniques from qualitative research, interviews were conducted with subject matter experts to better understand the phenomena. A grounded theory approach was applied and content analysis performed to identify recurring themes within the transcript data. These data were used to select five constructs that appear to influence Medical/Surgical Prime Vendor contract use. Through the theoretical lenses of the Strategy, Structure, and Performance model as well as the Technology Acceptance Model, a theoretical model was developed. To measure the influence of these factors on contract use, a survey instrument was developed using existing, validated scales for each construct, and sent to all MTFs within the CONUS. Analysis of the data using regression disclosed that all hypotheses were supported. The amount of variance in contract use accounted for by the hypothesized model was XX%. The outcomes of this project maintain a direct positive relationship between top management support, interorganizational communication, employee training, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness on Medical/Surgical Prime Vendor use. Suggestions of the research are discussed as well as limitations and opportunities for further research.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENS-14-M-03

DTIC Accession Number

ADA600123

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