Information Technology in Transitional Economies:The Mobile Internet in Jordan

Abstract

This paper examines mobile Internet adoption and diffusion in the transitional economy of Jordan. Jordan has been in a state of technology-enabled transition since the ascension of the new king, H.M. Abdullah II, led to a national dedication to Internet technology for economic development. This paper analyses results from a study of the adoption of mobile Internet in a sample of Jordanian airline customers. Seven factors were found to predict adoption of mobile Internet. Of particular interest was the finding that the variable 'image' had an influence in the opposite direction to other studies, which may point to specific cultural factors unique to Jordan. The results of this study provide a sound basis for strategic planning and information system development in Jordan with regard to consumer needs and emerging technologies in a transitional economy. The findings have important implications for service providers and industry practitioners, and for researchers who wish to use this study as a foundation for future research.

KEYWORDS:

• Transitional Economies
• Developing Nations
• Technology Adoption
• Mobil Internet
• Diffusion of Innovation
• Survey

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ahmad Mansour Khasawneh

Ahmad Al-Khasawneh is Vice President Assistant of Hashemite University in Jordan and holds a Ph.D. of Information System and M.S. of Information Technology and Computer Engineeringboth from Newcastle University, Australia. He has involved of many presentation and workshop in academic area. He also serves as the Director of the ICT's research group and has a direct mandate to develop and deliver an Academic-Government-wide e-agenda. Prior to joining the Hashemite University, he held several key positions with major international ICT consultancy and solutions firms. Highlights of his career include the positions of Chief Technology Officer at Royal Jordanian Airlines, Galileo international Group.