Group Support Systems: Barriers to Adoption in a Cross-Cultural Setting

Abstract

This paper develops a model to explain how Group Support Systems (GSS) may be received in different cultural settings - national and organisational. The model is supported by the views of Information Systems professionals regarding the suitability of GSS in those different cultural settings. A detailed investigation into the suitability of adopting GSS in organisations in Hong Kong is undertaken with three cases presented here. We argue for greater sensitivity when attempts are made to transfer technology from one culture to another, as well as the need to develop indigenous solutions that do fit with cultural norms. We also believe that studies documenting the organisational use of GSS - successful and unsuccessful - are essential.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Robert Davison

Robert Davison is a Lecturer in the Department of Information Systems at the City University of Hong Kong, where he is also a PhD Candidate in IS. His current research interests span the academic and business communities, examining the impact of GSS on group decision making, communication and learning, particularly in cross-cultural settings. His current work focuses on IT leapfrogging in developing countries. His work has been published by Information and Management, Group Decision and Negotiation, and The Journal of Failures and Lessons Learned in IT Management.

Ernest Jordan

Ernest Jordan is Associate Professor in Management, Macquarie Graduate School of Management, Macquarie University. Dr. Jordan had some ten years experience in the development of information systems in commerce and industry before entering the academic world. He has published in the areas of strategic planning of information technology, executive information systems and the management of information systems personnel. He is currently involved in a major research project that examines the reluctance of organisations in Australia to develop formal IT disaster recovery plans. Before coming to Macquarie he taught in Hong Kong and developed an interest in the cultural differences in technology adoption and use.