Abstract:

This paper explores why information technology (IT) has not diffused at the anticipated level. Studying several small organizations, the researcher has identified some inhibiting factors. The fundamental barriers to IT diffusion are not acquisition—based - predicated on willingness andability to buy — butrather on willingness to use. In other words, the resistance is not intentional, but prevalent in the system. Therefore, changes at institutional level are required. The institutional parameters are norms, cognition and regulations. Based on these barriers and recommendations, a model for effective diffusion is proposed at the end of the paper.