This document provides a literature review on how advancing technologies drive organizational change using Adaptive Structuration Theory (AST) as a framework. It discusses ten themes identified in the literature related to AST and organizational change. The first three themes directly support using AST to understand how technology adaptation within companies drives change. These themes are: 1) AST's treatment of structural theory in IS research, 2) viewing AST as a meta-theory for examining IS, and 3) examining AST's contextual and organizational elements in group support system research. The remaining themes provide context for how technology adaptation drives individual and organizational change.
Adomavicius et al.Technology Trends in the IT LandscapeSP.docxdaniahendric
Adomavicius et al./Technology Trends in the IT Landscape
SPECIAL ISSUE
MAKING SENSE OF TECHNOLOGY TRENDS IN THE
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY LANDSCAPE:
A DESIGN SCIENCE APPROACH1
By: Gediminas Adomavicius
Information and Decision Sciences and
MIS Research Center
Carlson School of Management
University of Minnesota
321 19th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55455
U.S.A.
[email protected]
Jesse C. Bockstedt
Information Systems and Operations Management
School of Management
George Mason University
4400 University Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
U.S.A.
[email protected]
Alok Gupta
Information and Decision Sciences and
MIS Research Center
Carlson School of Management
University of Minnesota
321 19th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55455
U.S.A.
[email protected]
1Sandeep Purao was the guest associate editor for this paper.
Robert J. Kauffman
Center for Advancing Business through
Information Technology
W. P. Carey School of Business and
School of Computing and Informatics
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ 85257
U.S.A.
[email protected]
Abstract
A major problem for firms making information technology
investment decisions is predicting and understanding the
effects of future technological developments on the value of
present technologies. Failure to adequately address this
problem can result in wasted organization resources in ac-
quiring, developing, managing, and training employees in the
use of technologies that are short-lived and fail to produce
adequate return on investment. The sheer number of avail-
able technologies and the complex set of relationships among
them make IT landscape analysis extremely challenging.
Most IT-consuming firms rely on third parties and suppliers
for strategic recommendations on IT investments, which can
lead to biased and generic advice. We address this problem
by defining a new set of constructs and methodologies upon
which we develop an IT ecosystem model. The objective of
these artifacts is to provide a formal problem representation
structure for the analysis of information technology devel-
opment trends and to reduce the complexity of the IT
landscape for practitioners making IT investment decisions.
We adopt a process theory perspective and use a combination
MIS Quarterly Vol. 32 No. 4, pp. 779-809/December 2008 779
Adomavicius et al./Technology Trends in the IT Landscape
of visual mapping and quantification strategies to develop
our artifacts and a state diagram-based technique to repre-
sent evolutionary transitions over time. We illustrate our
approach using two exemplars: digital music technologies
and wireless networking technologies. We evaluate the utility
of our approach by conducting in-depth interviews with IT
industry experts and demonstrate the contribution of our
approach relative to existing techniques for technology
forecasting.
Keywords: Design science, IT ecosystem model, IT
landscape analysis, management of technology, technology
evolution, IT investment
Introduction
The information te ...
Respond to the following discussion QuestionsRespond to feedb.docxcarlstromcurtis
Respond to the following discussion Questions:
Respond to feedback on your posting and provide feedback to other students on their ideas. Make sure your writing
is clear, concise, and organized;
demonstrates ethical scholarship in accurate representation and attribution of sources; and
displays accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Discussion Question #1
Organizations over the past forty years have the advantage of newer technological advances that help with the efficiency and improves productivity. As discussed in the module the increased use of cellphones, iPads, and other new technology are all part or normal operational needs of organizations. Organizations have more available technology that can allow them to achieve various goals, in education we use different types of Learning Management Systems, similar to Brightspace, which is the platform we use currently for our courses at Argosy. At my current college we use Moodle, these LMS’ are valuable tools because it allows instructors and students to communicate in different ways and to fully cross utilize learning abilities and teaching methods. These tools may seem like a huge advantage in educational institutions but they are also utilized in private organizations that are learning organizations.
Organizations are also able to use technology for multinational leadership of its organization. These technological resources can increase the use of virtual teams within the organization through the use of programs like Skype and integrated teleconferencing. This in my view gives organizations flexibility on how, what, and when information will be disseminated to those who need to be in the know of changes in the organization. Another issue with technological advances is that there are more people entering into the workforce that would rather use electronic devices or automation in the workplace and at the same time there are still baby boomers that are slow to adapt to the changes in technology because of the rapidity of change. Baby boomers are categorized by Simmons (2010), and being born between 1946-1964 and have “a limited view in technology’s role in optimizing workplace efficiency,” (Simmons, 2010). It’s not enough to blame baby boomers for their views, I think that as technology advances so does training in the organization, leaders should make it a priority to keep training as a priority in organizations as a means to reduce ageism, and any generational gaps that occur in regards to technology.
In my opinion I feel that technology in regards to organizational behavior, aids in the development of the workforce and helps to prepare the organization for future advances in their perspective industries.
Works Cited
Simons, N. (2010, Jan/Feb). Leveraging Generational Work Styles to Meet Business Objectives.
Information Management, 44
(1), 28-33.
Respond to feedback on your posting and provide feedback to other students on their ideas. Make sure you ...
Adomavicius et al.Technology Trends in the IT LandscapeSP.docxdaniahendric
Adomavicius et al./Technology Trends in the IT Landscape
SPECIAL ISSUE
MAKING SENSE OF TECHNOLOGY TRENDS IN THE
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY LANDSCAPE:
A DESIGN SCIENCE APPROACH1
By: Gediminas Adomavicius
Information and Decision Sciences and
MIS Research Center
Carlson School of Management
University of Minnesota
321 19th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55455
U.S.A.
[email protected]
Jesse C. Bockstedt
Information Systems and Operations Management
School of Management
George Mason University
4400 University Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
U.S.A.
[email protected]
Alok Gupta
Information and Decision Sciences and
MIS Research Center
Carlson School of Management
University of Minnesota
321 19th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55455
U.S.A.
[email protected]
1Sandeep Purao was the guest associate editor for this paper.
Robert J. Kauffman
Center for Advancing Business through
Information Technology
W. P. Carey School of Business and
School of Computing and Informatics
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ 85257
U.S.A.
[email protected]
Abstract
A major problem for firms making information technology
investment decisions is predicting and understanding the
effects of future technological developments on the value of
present technologies. Failure to adequately address this
problem can result in wasted organization resources in ac-
quiring, developing, managing, and training employees in the
use of technologies that are short-lived and fail to produce
adequate return on investment. The sheer number of avail-
able technologies and the complex set of relationships among
them make IT landscape analysis extremely challenging.
Most IT-consuming firms rely on third parties and suppliers
for strategic recommendations on IT investments, which can
lead to biased and generic advice. We address this problem
by defining a new set of constructs and methodologies upon
which we develop an IT ecosystem model. The objective of
these artifacts is to provide a formal problem representation
structure for the analysis of information technology devel-
opment trends and to reduce the complexity of the IT
landscape for practitioners making IT investment decisions.
We adopt a process theory perspective and use a combination
MIS Quarterly Vol. 32 No. 4, pp. 779-809/December 2008 779
Adomavicius et al./Technology Trends in the IT Landscape
of visual mapping and quantification strategies to develop
our artifacts and a state diagram-based technique to repre-
sent evolutionary transitions over time. We illustrate our
approach using two exemplars: digital music technologies
and wireless networking technologies. We evaluate the utility
of our approach by conducting in-depth interviews with IT
industry experts and demonstrate the contribution of our
approach relative to existing techniques for technology
forecasting.
Keywords: Design science, IT ecosystem model, IT
landscape analysis, management of technology, technology
evolution, IT investment
Introduction
The information te ...
Respond to the following discussion QuestionsRespond to feedb.docxcarlstromcurtis
Respond to the following discussion Questions:
Respond to feedback on your posting and provide feedback to other students on their ideas. Make sure your writing
is clear, concise, and organized;
demonstrates ethical scholarship in accurate representation and attribution of sources; and
displays accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Discussion Question #1
Organizations over the past forty years have the advantage of newer technological advances that help with the efficiency and improves productivity. As discussed in the module the increased use of cellphones, iPads, and other new technology are all part or normal operational needs of organizations. Organizations have more available technology that can allow them to achieve various goals, in education we use different types of Learning Management Systems, similar to Brightspace, which is the platform we use currently for our courses at Argosy. At my current college we use Moodle, these LMS’ are valuable tools because it allows instructors and students to communicate in different ways and to fully cross utilize learning abilities and teaching methods. These tools may seem like a huge advantage in educational institutions but they are also utilized in private organizations that are learning organizations.
Organizations are also able to use technology for multinational leadership of its organization. These technological resources can increase the use of virtual teams within the organization through the use of programs like Skype and integrated teleconferencing. This in my view gives organizations flexibility on how, what, and when information will be disseminated to those who need to be in the know of changes in the organization. Another issue with technological advances is that there are more people entering into the workforce that would rather use electronic devices or automation in the workplace and at the same time there are still baby boomers that are slow to adapt to the changes in technology because of the rapidity of change. Baby boomers are categorized by Simmons (2010), and being born between 1946-1964 and have “a limited view in technology’s role in optimizing workplace efficiency,” (Simmons, 2010). It’s not enough to blame baby boomers for their views, I think that as technology advances so does training in the organization, leaders should make it a priority to keep training as a priority in organizations as a means to reduce ageism, and any generational gaps that occur in regards to technology.
In my opinion I feel that technology in regards to organizational behavior, aids in the development of the workforce and helps to prepare the organization for future advances in their perspective industries.
Works Cited
Simons, N. (2010, Jan/Feb). Leveraging Generational Work Styles to Meet Business Objectives.
Information Management, 44
(1), 28-33.
Respond to feedback on your posting and provide feedback to other students on their ideas. Make sure you ...
Neither Information technologies determine organisational structure merely, nor does organisational structure. There is a mutual interaction between there variables. Using information technologies is a must for the organisations in this century. However how information technologies evolved over the time brings a question of what effect can technology bring towards organisations and their structure. This study discusses the conceptual issues that raise the importance of technological tools, views and ways that followed by organisations and changed over the time. It also examines technological, organisational and interactive ties that connect organisational structure and the information technology. It concludes that information technologies have an impact on the organisational structure via centralisation and decentralisation, authority and control, space of control, change in organisational level, departmental structure, decision making process, communication, and organising the work.
Unlock Your Potential CBITSS - Where Careers Take Flight.pptxCbitss Technologies
Discover endless possibilities with CBITSS. Our specialized training programs cater to diverse interests, preparing individuals for successful careers in technology and beyond.
T-Shaped: The New Breed of IT ProfessionalHaluk Demirkan
T-shaped development is especially important for IT professionals in a converging world because:
- The accelerating rate at which new IT knowledge is being created means that IT professionals must be more adaptive, with “boundary-spanning” abilities.
- The nature of IT project work today often requires IT professionals to work on multidisciplinary, multisector, and multicultural teams.
- The changing role of IT in the enterprise will require IT professionals with business and organizational knowledge in addition to technology expertise.
- Increasingly, IT innovation means providing an expanded role for customers and partners to co-create value on platforms, so Open Services Innovation initiatives are on the rise.
Data management and enterprise architectures for responsible AI services .pptxMolnrBlint4
Big data is becoming a reality. Complex and difficult-to-understand
data may be found in a wide range of industries. Big data is a critical component
of enterprise services and technology architectures. Data science techniques
and methodologies can be applied in many different aspects of the working
of companies. In this paper, first, as a background, we provide an overview
of knowledge management practices and data analysis strategies and techniques
in the daily operations of companies working towards development of AI
agents, and the need in particular companies can develop human centric AI solutions;
Then, we discuss the basics for cross-disciplinary research, in which we
stress the need to re-think development processes of AI services and make them
more responsible, and we define research questions to investigate the problem.
As the research proposal discusses, companies and public institutions, can create
and develop new responsible, ethical, and transparent AI services.
https://jst.org.in/index.html
Our journal has research and development, mathematics is the universal language. Join us as we explore the elegant equations and mathematical models that underpin technological advancements and scientific breakthroughs.
https://jst.org.in/index.html
Our journal have the power to transcend geographical boundaries. Researchers from around the world can access and benefit from the knowledge shared in these publications. This global reach enhances the diversity of perspectives and promotes a more inclusive academic landscape.
https://jst.org.in/index.html
Our journal has serves as a beacon for scholars and practitioners alike, delving into the intricacies of next-generation technologies that promise to reshape the world. From artificial intelligence and renewable energy to advanced materials and beyond, we are at the forefront of engineering's evolution.
It is no exaggeration to say that software is fundamentally changing the way that we as individuals interact with each other, companies and governments. When famed venture capitalist Marc Andreessen wrote that “software is eating the world”, he used a number of different examples of how software is disrupting traditional industries.
Invited Paper – EDSIGCON 2017 Keynote Reflections on the Cur.docxmariuse18nolet
Invited Paper – EDSIGCON 2017 Keynote
Reflections on the Current State and Future of Information
Systems Education
Heikki Topi
Bentley University
Waltham, MA 02452, USA
[email protected]
ABSTRACT
This essay discusses the current state of and potential future directions for information systems education structured around
several key themes that have emerged as central in several large-scale IS education initiatives over the past 15 years. The core
idea that connects all of these themes is the centrality of IS as a transformative enabler for virtually all goal-directed human
activities. The essay emphasizes the role of IS as the initial integrative discipline that for decades has prepared its students to
identify opportunities to fundamentally change multiple target domains with computational capabilities. Furthermore, the
discussion recognizes the distinctive focus of IS on bringing multiple technologies together into systems that serve organizational
and societal goals and underscores the responsibility to carefully consider implications and potential consequences of technology-
based solutions. The essay also acknowledges the essential roles of formal quality assurance mechanisms (such as accreditation)
and education-focused research as essential resources for the future of the discipline.
Keywords: IS education, Competency, IS education research, Computing education, IS environment
1. INTRODUCTION
I am honored and humbled to have this opportunity to reflect
on the state of information systems (IS) education and offer
some thoughts about the future of our field. The most
important role of the information systems community is to
educate new generations of professionals whose work focuses
on the use of information systems to transform the ways in
which organizations and societies are structured and operate to
achieve their goals. There is no better way for us to have an
impact on the world in which we live than by being the best
coach, mentor, and facilitator of learning for our students. For
a variety of reasons, it is now more important than ever to
ensure that we offer our students educational experiences that
are both effective and comprehensive, reaching from technical
expertise to new business models and values-based ethical
analysis of impact.
Never in the history of civilization has a set of
technologies had as profound a potential to change the world
as systems based on information technologies have right now.
Information systems have a truly fundamental role in the lives
of all individuals, organizations, and societies, whether or not
they recognize it. This is closely associated with the rapidly
changing world of work, where artificial intelligence and IT-
driven automation is changing job roles and relevancy of
various professions at a pace that often exceeds the human
capability to adapt. At the same time, physical and digital
systems are increasingly fully integrated, and the action.
Are organizations likely to find better solutions to information o.docxrossskuddershamus
Are organizations likely to find better solutions to information overload through changes to theirtechnical systemsor their social systems -- or both? Why?
Abstract
This paper argues for the relevance and utility of socio-technical theory for designing solutions to the challenges we face from managing the impact of information overload. A consequence of information overload can cause serious damage to an organization performance.
Socio-technical systems theory defines systems as a collection of messy, complex, problem-solving components. This approach suggests a balance between the social and technical systems which together make up an organization. The paper suggests that socio-technical approach, purport that in order for organizations to create and store their knowledge they must consider the balance between the social and technical systems which make up an organization. Effective knowledge management is a combination of the appropriate use of technology in each stage with the humanistic use of people within the organizations. A socio-technical framework for knowledge management is therefore an appropriate way of dealing with the problem of information overload.
Social-Technical Perspective: A solution for Managing Information Overload
We live in the information age. And we work in it, too. Our work environment today, has access to more tools than ever before to help facilitate communication. It is true that all these new tools provide numerous arrays of options for keeping employees informed, connected, productive and engaged. Hence the explosive development of the Internet and related information and communication technologies has brought into focus the problems of information overload, and the growing speed and complexity of developments in society. People find it ever more difficult to cope with all the new information they receive, constant changes in the organizations and technologies they use, and increasingly complex and unpredictable side-effects of their actions. This leads to growing stress and anxiety (Blair, 2010). In terms of business stand point, the information clutter that is associated with these new technological advancements is making it difficult for many employees to understand organizational priorities and focus on the work that is most critical to achieving business objectives.
As suggested in the module introduction, socio-technical design can be very helpful in diagnosing Information overload that can typically exists in some pockets of an organization, while other pockets may not receive enough information. It's critical to identify precisely where and to what extent this challenge exists in an organization.
It is important to understand that nothing is possible without knowledge. Knowledge can be defined as a mix of framed experience, values, contextual information, and expert insight that provides a framework for evaluating and incorporating new experiences and information. It originates and is applied in.
Neither Information technologies determine organisational structure merely, nor does organisational structure. There is a mutual interaction between there variables. Using information technologies is a must for the organisations in this century. However how information technologies evolved over the time brings a question of what effect can technology bring towards organisations and their structure. This study discusses the conceptual issues that raise the importance of technological tools, views and ways that followed by organisations and changed over the time. It also examines technological, organisational and interactive ties that connect organisational structure and the information technology. It concludes that information technologies have an impact on the organisational structure via centralisation and decentralisation, authority and control, space of control, change in organisational level, departmental structure, decision making process, communication, and organising the work.
Unlock Your Potential CBITSS - Where Careers Take Flight.pptxCbitss Technologies
Discover endless possibilities with CBITSS. Our specialized training programs cater to diverse interests, preparing individuals for successful careers in technology and beyond.
T-Shaped: The New Breed of IT ProfessionalHaluk Demirkan
T-shaped development is especially important for IT professionals in a converging world because:
- The accelerating rate at which new IT knowledge is being created means that IT professionals must be more adaptive, with “boundary-spanning” abilities.
- The nature of IT project work today often requires IT professionals to work on multidisciplinary, multisector, and multicultural teams.
- The changing role of IT in the enterprise will require IT professionals with business and organizational knowledge in addition to technology expertise.
- Increasingly, IT innovation means providing an expanded role for customers and partners to co-create value on platforms, so Open Services Innovation initiatives are on the rise.
Data management and enterprise architectures for responsible AI services .pptxMolnrBlint4
Big data is becoming a reality. Complex and difficult-to-understand
data may be found in a wide range of industries. Big data is a critical component
of enterprise services and technology architectures. Data science techniques
and methodologies can be applied in many different aspects of the working
of companies. In this paper, first, as a background, we provide an overview
of knowledge management practices and data analysis strategies and techniques
in the daily operations of companies working towards development of AI
agents, and the need in particular companies can develop human centric AI solutions;
Then, we discuss the basics for cross-disciplinary research, in which we
stress the need to re-think development processes of AI services and make them
more responsible, and we define research questions to investigate the problem.
As the research proposal discusses, companies and public institutions, can create
and develop new responsible, ethical, and transparent AI services.
https://jst.org.in/index.html
Our journal has research and development, mathematics is the universal language. Join us as we explore the elegant equations and mathematical models that underpin technological advancements and scientific breakthroughs.
https://jst.org.in/index.html
Our journal have the power to transcend geographical boundaries. Researchers from around the world can access and benefit from the knowledge shared in these publications. This global reach enhances the diversity of perspectives and promotes a more inclusive academic landscape.
https://jst.org.in/index.html
Our journal has serves as a beacon for scholars and practitioners alike, delving into the intricacies of next-generation technologies that promise to reshape the world. From artificial intelligence and renewable energy to advanced materials and beyond, we are at the forefront of engineering's evolution.
It is no exaggeration to say that software is fundamentally changing the way that we as individuals interact with each other, companies and governments. When famed venture capitalist Marc Andreessen wrote that “software is eating the world”, he used a number of different examples of how software is disrupting traditional industries.
Invited Paper – EDSIGCON 2017 Keynote Reflections on the Cur.docxmariuse18nolet
Invited Paper – EDSIGCON 2017 Keynote
Reflections on the Current State and Future of Information
Systems Education
Heikki Topi
Bentley University
Waltham, MA 02452, USA
[email protected]
ABSTRACT
This essay discusses the current state of and potential future directions for information systems education structured around
several key themes that have emerged as central in several large-scale IS education initiatives over the past 15 years. The core
idea that connects all of these themes is the centrality of IS as a transformative enabler for virtually all goal-directed human
activities. The essay emphasizes the role of IS as the initial integrative discipline that for decades has prepared its students to
identify opportunities to fundamentally change multiple target domains with computational capabilities. Furthermore, the
discussion recognizes the distinctive focus of IS on bringing multiple technologies together into systems that serve organizational
and societal goals and underscores the responsibility to carefully consider implications and potential consequences of technology-
based solutions. The essay also acknowledges the essential roles of formal quality assurance mechanisms (such as accreditation)
and education-focused research as essential resources for the future of the discipline.
Keywords: IS education, Competency, IS education research, Computing education, IS environment
1. INTRODUCTION
I am honored and humbled to have this opportunity to reflect
on the state of information systems (IS) education and offer
some thoughts about the future of our field. The most
important role of the information systems community is to
educate new generations of professionals whose work focuses
on the use of information systems to transform the ways in
which organizations and societies are structured and operate to
achieve their goals. There is no better way for us to have an
impact on the world in which we live than by being the best
coach, mentor, and facilitator of learning for our students. For
a variety of reasons, it is now more important than ever to
ensure that we offer our students educational experiences that
are both effective and comprehensive, reaching from technical
expertise to new business models and values-based ethical
analysis of impact.
Never in the history of civilization has a set of
technologies had as profound a potential to change the world
as systems based on information technologies have right now.
Information systems have a truly fundamental role in the lives
of all individuals, organizations, and societies, whether or not
they recognize it. This is closely associated with the rapidly
changing world of work, where artificial intelligence and IT-
driven automation is changing job roles and relevancy of
various professions at a pace that often exceeds the human
capability to adapt. At the same time, physical and digital
systems are increasingly fully integrated, and the action.
Are organizations likely to find better solutions to information o.docxrossskuddershamus
Are organizations likely to find better solutions to information overload through changes to theirtechnical systemsor their social systems -- or both? Why?
Abstract
This paper argues for the relevance and utility of socio-technical theory for designing solutions to the challenges we face from managing the impact of information overload. A consequence of information overload can cause serious damage to an organization performance.
Socio-technical systems theory defines systems as a collection of messy, complex, problem-solving components. This approach suggests a balance between the social and technical systems which together make up an organization. The paper suggests that socio-technical approach, purport that in order for organizations to create and store their knowledge they must consider the balance between the social and technical systems which make up an organization. Effective knowledge management is a combination of the appropriate use of technology in each stage with the humanistic use of people within the organizations. A socio-technical framework for knowledge management is therefore an appropriate way of dealing with the problem of information overload.
Social-Technical Perspective: A solution for Managing Information Overload
We live in the information age. And we work in it, too. Our work environment today, has access to more tools than ever before to help facilitate communication. It is true that all these new tools provide numerous arrays of options for keeping employees informed, connected, productive and engaged. Hence the explosive development of the Internet and related information and communication technologies has brought into focus the problems of information overload, and the growing speed and complexity of developments in society. People find it ever more difficult to cope with all the new information they receive, constant changes in the organizations and technologies they use, and increasingly complex and unpredictable side-effects of their actions. This leads to growing stress and anxiety (Blair, 2010). In terms of business stand point, the information clutter that is associated with these new technological advancements is making it difficult for many employees to understand organizational priorities and focus on the work that is most critical to achieving business objectives.
As suggested in the module introduction, socio-technical design can be very helpful in diagnosing Information overload that can typically exists in some pockets of an organization, while other pockets may not receive enough information. It's critical to identify precisely where and to what extent this challenge exists in an organization.
It is important to understand that nothing is possible without knowledge. Knowledge can be defined as a mix of framed experience, values, contextual information, and expert insight that provides a framework for evaluating and incorporating new experiences and information. It originates and is applied in.
Embracing GenAI - A Strategic ImperativePeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
Biological screening of herbal drugs: Introduction and Need for
Phyto-Pharmacological Screening, New Strategies for evaluating
Natural Products, In vitro evaluation techniques for Antioxidants, Antimicrobial and Anticancer drugs. In vivo evaluation techniques
for Anti-inflammatory, Antiulcer, Anticancer, Wound healing, Antidiabetic, Hepatoprotective, Cardio protective, Diuretics and
Antifertility, Toxicity studies as per OECD guidelines
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
Francesca Gottschalk - How can education support child empowerment.pptxEduSkills OECD
Francesca Gottschalk from the OECD’s Centre for Educational Research and Innovation presents at the Ask an Expert Webinar: How can education support child empowerment?
June 3, 2024 Anti-Semitism Letter Sent to MIT President Kornbluth and MIT Cor...Levi Shapiro
Letter from the Congress of the United States regarding Anti-Semitism sent June 3rd to MIT President Sally Kornbluth, MIT Corp Chair, Mark Gorenberg
Dear Dr. Kornbluth and Mr. Gorenberg,
The US House of Representatives is deeply concerned by ongoing and pervasive acts of antisemitic
harassment and intimidation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Failing to act decisively to ensure a safe learning environment for all students would be a grave dereliction of your responsibilities as President of MIT and Chair of the MIT Corporation.
This Congress will not stand idly by and allow an environment hostile to Jewish students to persist. The House believes that your institution is in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, and the inability or
unwillingness to rectify this violation through action requires accountability.
Postsecondary education is a unique opportunity for students to learn and have their ideas and beliefs challenged. However, universities receiving hundreds of millions of federal funds annually have denied
students that opportunity and have been hijacked to become venues for the promotion of terrorism, antisemitic harassment and intimidation, unlawful encampments, and in some cases, assaults and riots.
The House of Representatives will not countenance the use of federal funds to indoctrinate students into hateful, antisemitic, anti-American supporters of terrorism. Investigations into campus antisemitism by the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means have been expanded into a Congress-wide probe across all relevant jurisdictions to address this national crisis. The undersigned Committees will conduct oversight into the use of federal funds at MIT and its learning environment under authorities granted to each Committee.
• The Committee on Education and the Workforce has been investigating your institution since December 7, 2023. The Committee has broad jurisdiction over postsecondary education, including its compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, campus safety concerns over disruptions to the learning environment, and the awarding of federal student aid under the Higher Education Act.
• The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is investigating the sources of funding and other support flowing to groups espousing pro-Hamas propaganda and engaged in antisemitic harassment and intimidation of students. The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is the principal oversight committee of the US House of Representatives and has broad authority to investigate “any matter” at “any time” under House Rule X.
• The Committee on Ways and Means has been investigating several universities since November 15, 2023, when the Committee held a hearing entitled From Ivory Towers to Dark Corners: Investigating the Nexus Between Antisemitism, Tax-Exempt Universities, and Terror Financing. The Committee followed the hearing with letters to those institutions on January 10, 202
Welcome to TechSoup New Member Orientation and Q&A (May 2024).pdfTechSoup
In this webinar you will learn how your organization can access TechSoup's wide variety of product discount and donation programs. From hardware to software, we'll give you a tour of the tools available to help your nonprofit with productivity, collaboration, financial management, donor tracking, security, and more.
Unit 8 - Information and Communication Technology (Paper I).pdfThiyagu K
This slides describes the basic concepts of ICT, basics of Email, Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives in Education. This presentations aligns with the UGC Paper I syllabus.
Introduction to AI for Nonprofits with Tapp NetworkTechSoup
Dive into the world of AI! Experts Jon Hill and Tareq Monaur will guide you through AI's role in enhancing nonprofit websites and basic marketing strategies, making it easy to understand and apply.
Introduction to AI for Nonprofits with Tapp Network
Adaptive Structuration Theory Understanding How Advancing Technologies Drive Organizational Change.pdf
1. Running Head: HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 1
Adaptive Structuration Theory: Understanding How Advancing Technologies
Drive Organizational Change
Daniel L. Calloway
TS8306
Advanced Topics In Information Technology
18 Evening Shade Drive
Weaverville, NC 28787
Telephone: (828) 380-1994
Email: dcalloway@capellauniversity.edu
Instructor: Dr. Danielle Babb, PhD
2. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 2
Abstract
Adaptive Structuration Theory (AST) is relevant to today's organizations due to the expanding
influence that advancing technologies have had with regard to the human-computer interaction aspect
of AST and its implications on socio-biologically inspired structuration. This literature review presents
examples of advances in information technology that are driving organizational changes in the areas of
business alignment, IT planning, and development that show how AST is being used to study this
driving force of advancing technologies within organizations. We also investigate how AST relates to
complexity theory of organizational structure, in order to better understand how advancing information
technologies influence the structure, modality, and interaction of social systems, team dynamics, and
organizations. To gain a better understanding of the individual adaptation of IT and how the adaptation
of IT by the business sector drives organizational change within the company in today's digital age, it
was necessary for us to investigate such concepts as virtual team dynamics, the integration of
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) into academe, the investigation of AST as a Meta-Theory for
examining IS within organizations, contextual and organizational elements of AST in Group Support
System (GSS) research, group decision making, the geographic dispersion in teams, the Enterprise
Systems of induced organizational change, the study of IT effects on individuals and organizations, and
technology-mediated learning within organizations.
Keywords: AST, ERP, GSS research, global virtual teams, organizational change
3. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract.…...............................................................................................................................................2
Introduction.….........................................................................................................................................4
Brief Overview of Advancing Information Technology in the Workforce.….........................................5
Themes Identified in the Literature.…....................................................................................................7
Treatment of AST to Structural Theory in IS Research...............................................................8
AST as a Meta-Theory for Examining IS Within Organizations.................................................9
Contextual and Organizational Elements of AST in GSS Research...........................................11
Global Virtual Team Dynamics...................................................................................................11
Integrating ERP Into the Business Academe..............................................................................12
Group Decision Making.............................................................................................................13
Enterprise Systems Induced Organizational Change.................................................................13
Study of IT Effects on Organizations.........................................................................................15
Technology-Mediated Learning Within Organizations..............................................................16
Individual Adaptation of Information Technology.....................................................................17
Findings and Conclusions From the Research.…..................................................................................18
Need for Future Research.…..................................................................................................................21
References..............................................................................................................................................22
4. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 4
Introduction
This paper is a literature review on prior research in the area of advancing information
technologies and will look at the proposal that Adaptive Structuration Theory (AST) is a viable
approach for studying the role of advancing information technologies in driving organizational change.
Although Structuration Theory was first proposed by Anthony Giddens in his Constitution of Society in
1984, which was an attempt to reconcile social systems and the micro/macro perspectives of
organizational structure, DeSanctis and Poole (1994) borrowed from Giddens in order to propose AST
and the rise of group decision support systems. Research within the last decade would suggest that
there has been a considerable amount of ongoing study into advances in information technology and
information & communications technology (ICT), and its overall impact on organizations and their
structure. A list of ongoing research in AST have been compiled as references and incorporated into
this literature review paper. We will review the predominant themes of the researchers over the last
decade, analyze the results of their research, provide their overall conclusions, investigate gaps we have
uncovered in the research, and point out potential research for future researchers to explore.
Adaptive Structuration Theory is relevant to today's organizations due to the expanding
influence that advancing technologies have had with regard to the human-computer interaction aspect
of AST and its implications on socio-biologically inspired structuration in security software
applications. This literature review will present specific examples of advances in information
technology that are driving organizational changes in the areas of business alignment, IT planning, and
development that show how AST is being used to study this driving force of advancing technologies
within organizations. We will also investigate how AST relates to complexity theory of organizational
structure, in order to better understand how advancing information technologies influence the structure,
modality, and interaction of social systems, team dynamics, and organizations. But, first, let's take a
5. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 5
look at a brief overview of advancing IT in the corporate workforce.
Brief Overview of Advancing Information Technology in the Workforce
Information Technology has had a profound impact on the workforce over the last several
decades. Through the advances in office equipment, methods of communication, and speed of
transmission of that communication, information technology has literally transformed the way
businesses plan, execute their business processes, align the business unit with emerging IT, and conduct
business with their customers, shareholders, and business partners. Information Technology has
allowed companies to permit their employees to do their work from remote locations (also known as
telecommuting) and this has given both the companies and their employees the freedom to reduce costs
while increasing productivity and improving their lives as they continue to work for the company.
Organizations who have been willing to invest in IT have seen increased efficiencies in operations;
more rapid and reliable communications and data transmission; cost reductions; global expansion;
improved communications within the company, their partners, and their customers; better tracking of
goods and services they offer to the customer; and an increased competitive advantage.
Mamaghani (2006) points out that prior to the 1990s, the workforce within most organizations
was a traditional setting of office equipment, and a communications within the company that was
predominantly face-to-face. The equipment used in most offices consisted of telephones, typewriters,
fax machines, copy machines, and mainframe terminal stations, followed by early forms of computer
workstations for basic word-processing and database manipulation. In stark contrast, through the
advances of information technology over the last two decades (Mamaghani; DeSanctis and Poole,
1994), today's office environment consists of high-end desktop & laptop computers offering state-of-
the-art word-processing, spreadsheet, and presentation capabilities that are connected wired and
wirelessly to high-speed gigabit Ethernet networks; scanners; video conferencing and satellite
communications devices; electronic email capability via PCs and mobile devices such as laptops,
6. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 6
PDAs, iPads, and wireless cell phones; and mobile teleconferencing and telecommuting around the
World from remote office locations made possible via the Internet and telecommunications software
applications that run over the Internet via the World-wide Web, allowing employees to conduct
meetings from remote office locations. Collaborative software packages that run on modern desktop,
laptop, and various mobile devices have allowed employees to share information in real-time as well as
simultaneously work on projects while being globally distant from one another. As a result of
embracing information technology, communications today within the organizational workforce among
executives, management, and employees is less face-to-face, less direct, and predominantly carried out
over long distances.
Robert Half International, the World's largest recruiter of financial executives, conducted a
survey of 1400 CFOs asking them what they felt was the leading incentive that attracted accounting
types to work for their companies. The second leading incentive that attracted top executives and
accounting types to work for a company was found to be the ability to telecommute and work on a
flexible schedule. This incentive offered by advancing information technologies ranked 33% among the
CFOs responding to the survey and was surpassed slightly (46% of CFOs surveyed) by higher salaries
as the greatest incentive (Mamaghani, 2006). Direct benefits to companies from employees that
telecommute included, reduced absenteeism, reduced employee turnover costs, productivity gains,
reduced overhead real estate expenses, and a reduction in employee relocation costs.
IT-based tools and techniques that improve overall performance are being sought by today's
corporate managers that increase efficiencies and maximize shareholder profits for the company. But,
the business units that align business process with IT have made their own contributions to
organizational changes that embrace IT. A. T. Kearney Consulting Group indicates that “the best IT
ideas are not coming from IT, but from the business side” (Mamaghani, 2006, p. 849). And, according
to a 2005 study conducted by Bain & Company, the leading four tools used by managers are: Strategic
7. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 7
Planning (79% usage), Customer Relations Management (75% usage), Benchmarking (72% usage),
and Outsourcing (72% usage). The largest operational concern for today's IT-driven businesses is by far
the issue of security. This fact is especially relevant due to the increasing numbers of employees who
telecommute and who are required to connect back to corporate networks using mobile devices. The
mobile workforce of tomorrow will rely more heavily on IT's ability to provide even faster, more
reliable, and secure electronic communications; the security and protection of sensitive customer data;
the ability of IT to drive organizational change within the companies to motivate the employees to
work from remote locations and become more productive; and to reduce costs, maintain more efficient
operations, and maintain a competitive edge in the Marketplace.
To gain a better understanding of the individual adaptation of IT and how the adaptation of IT
by the business sector drives organizational change within the company in today's digital age, it is
necessary for us to investigate further such concepts as virtual team dynamics, the integration of
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) into academe, group decision making, the geographic dispersion
in teams, the Enterprise Systems of induced organizational change, the study of IT effects on
individuals and organizations, and technology-mediated learning within organizations. But first, as
mentioned earlier, we need to investigate how AST is a viable approach in studying how advancing
technologies drive organizational change by investigating the treatment of AST to structural theory in
IS research, by presenting AST as a meta-theory for examining IS within organizations, and by
examining the contextual and organizational elements of AST in GSS research.
To accomplish this goal, in the section that follows, we will look at the themes that we
identified in the literature, which were reviewed in preparing this paper. As you will see, these major
themes provide the road map for the use of adaptive structuration theory as a viable approach in
showing how the adaptation of IT drives individual and organizational change.
Themes Identified in the Literature
8. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 8
During the course of preparing this paper, ten major themes were revealed in the literature that
help to explain how advancing technologies help drive organizational change. Among these themes are
the first three that directly support the use of AST in gaining a better understanding of how the
adaptation of IT within corporations helps to drive organizational change. These themes are followed
by ancillary themes that, in conjunction with the first three, help to support the concept that the
adaptation of IT help to drive organizational change and why.
Treatment of AST to Structural Theory in IS Research
Structuration Theory was first proposed by Anthony Giddens in his Constitution of Society in
1984, which was an attempt to reconcile social systems and the micro/macro perspectives of
organizational structure. DeSanctis and Poole (1994) borrowed from Giddens in order to propose AST
and the rise of group decision support systems. AST provides the model whereby the interaction
between advancing information technologies, social structures, and human interaction is described, and
which focuses on the social structures, rules, and resources provided by information technologies as the
basis for human activity. AST is a viable approach in studying how the adaptation of IT by companies
drive organizational change because it examines the change from two distinct perspectives: (1) the
types of structures that are provided by advancing technologies, and (2) the structures that emerge due
to the human action as they interact with the emerging technologies. Researchers believe that the
effects of advancing technologies has more to do with how people use the technologies than about the
technologies themselves. For this reason, the human interaction often differs somewhat from the
intended impact of the technologies. Adaptive structuration theory is a framework for studying the
variations that exist within organizations as they occur from the implementation of advancing
technologies. The AST framework indicates that the adaptation of organizational actors is the primary
factor that drives organizational change.
There are two primary schools of thought that have advanced the study of information
9. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 9
technology and what drives organizational change. These two schools are: (1) the decision-making
school, which has its origin in the positivist tradition of research and presumes that decision making is
“the primordial organizational act” (DeSanctis & Poole, 1994, p. 122 in citing Perrow, 1986) and the
position that technology should consist of structures (that is to say, data and decision models) that have
as the basis for their design to overcome human weaknesses and, once applied, these technologies
should bring forth efficiency, productivity, and overall satisfaction to individuals and organizations
(DeSanctis & Poole, 1994 in citing Rice, 1984); and (2) the institutional school, which advocates that
the adaptation of technology is an opportunity for change rather than a causal agent of change. The
focus of the latter school of thought for the institutionalists is less of a concern for the structures within
advancing technology and more on the social evolution within human institutions. What both of these
schools of thought have in common is the consensus that the studies of technology and organizational
change must focus on interaction and encapsulate the historical processes as social practices evolve.
Advancing information technologies bring about the social structures that enable and constrain
interaction to the workplace. These advancing technologies coordinate the support among the people
and provide the procedures for completing the interpersonal exchange. Thus, the social structures
provided by an advancing information technology can be described as the structural features of the
given technology and the spirit of this given set.
AST as a Meta-Theory for Examining IS Within Organizations
Bostrom, Gupta, and Thomas (2009) viewed adaptive structuration theory as a Meta-Theory for
examining information systems within the organizational context. Their research study looked at the
role of a meta-theory in IS and built a case for the use of AST as a meta-theory. The concept of a meta-
theory, as proposed by Bostrom et al., is that it is a theory that links across theory domains, which
according to Bostrom et al. is lacking in the study of IS and advancing technologies. As posited by
Bostrom et al., adaptive structuration theory serves as a meta-theory for the study of IS within the
10. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 10
socio-technical systems (STS, or organizational work systems) because AST derives from structuration
theory by specifically accounting for the presence and effects of advancing technology artifacts.
Meta-studies, according to Bostrom et al. (2009) are classified into four broad categories—meta
data analysis, meta-reviews, meta-theorizations, and meta-methods analysis. Meta-data analysis bring
together the raw data collected from empirical studies and synthesizes the findings corresponding to the
same phenomenon. Meta-reviews provides an overview of a specific topic, area, or domain. Meta-
theorizations combine what is known about how a given theory functions through the examination of
studies involving the theory or set of theories. And, finally, meta-methods analysis examines the
research methods, attempting to discover how a particular method is used in multiple studies.
A good meta-theory, according to Bostrom et al. (2009) can be identified by three characteristics
that enable it the ability to: (1) Provide overarching perspectives, (2) Facilitate theory development,
and (3) Provide an enhanced understanding of a theory. Jones and Karsten, (2009) provide an extensive
meta-review of previous research through 2004 on the use of structuration theory in the study of
information systems and agree with Poole and DeSanctis (2004) that AST is “one of the most
influential...theoretical paradigms influencing IS research in the last decade or more...the theoretical
lens of choice for most scholars” (Bostrom et al., p. 23, para 3). Structuration theory is limited in its
study of how advancing technologies drive organization change because of the fact that it “conflates
structure and agency” (Bostrom et al., p. 24) by reducing the understanding of structure to enacted
cognition and this structuration theory, although it “offers a mechanism for explaining the reproduction
of social structures within these systems, it does not explain why certain structures succeed or become
institutionalized” (p. 24). AST utilizes some of the assumptions of structuration theory, but, more
importantly, it adds the information technology artifact within IS structures as a critical part of the
social context. As a result, as Bostrom et al. points out, AST does a better job at integrating both the
voluntarist and the structural approaches within the augmented structuration theory, and, therefore,
11. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 11
serves as a good meta-theory for examining IS within organizations than does structuration theory.
Contextual and Organizational Elements of AST in GSS Research
Niederman (2008) looked at the findings covering Group Support Systems (GSS) Research and
suggested an expanded consideration of the contextual and organizational elements of Adaptive
Structuration Theory. He further proposed a model of structuring tactics consisting of three abstraction
levels: activity level, meeting level, and real time intervention level. Using three specific structuring
tactics—agenda, design patterns, and micro-processes, he illustrated the model and presented some
related propositions. Drawing upon Collaboration Engineering literature, Niederman invoked particular
social structures to create GSS value.
Niederman (2008) suggested the added consideration of contextual and organizational elements
in AST, especially in terms of how the meeting context is formed by the organizational pressures; how
the facilitator of the group meetings works with the organizational issues and leads the group through
the meeting discussions; and how these contextual and organizational influences move the meeting, the
design processes, and the real time interventions in meeting the goals and objectives of the group itself.
Niederman, by examining the natural reactions of the group members to the introduction of GSS
technology, discovered that although this examination can provide useful insights and behavioral
knowledge, the organizational settings are enhanced by the selective use of human interaction and
technology for specific purposes. And, finally, Niederman added propositions to those developed by
DeSanctis and Poole (1994) surrounding the context of AST as applied to GSS Research. As it applies
to GSS, the technology in context research involving virtual teams, virtual communities, and online
learning [citing Thomas, Gupta, and Bostrom (2008)] places emphasis on the integration of structured
learning leadership, real time guidance, support for facilitation activities, and the continued use of
multiple methods research for the purpose of furthering the utility of GSS in application.
Global Virtual Team Dynamics
12. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 12
Global virtual teams, as defined by Maznevski (2000), are internationally distributed groups of
individuals or teams with a charter to make decisions for the organization and to implement these
decisions with international components and implications. These teams rarely meet in person but,
rather, make extended use of information and communications technology as the means through which
to conduct their business. Maznevski conducted a grounded study of global virtual teams utilizing the
Adaptive Structuration Theory (see DeSanctis & Poole, 1994) to guide their research. Maznevski
studied three global virtual teams over a 21-month period. The data gathered in the study used multiple
methods and qualitative methods to develop a theory of global virtual team dynamics and their
effectiveness. Maznevski (in citing DeSanctis & Jackson, 1994) showed that the benefits from using
more complex information and communication technologies increased as the tasks became more
complex. This study, combined with others cited in Maznevski agree that the global virtual teams most
effective use of communications technologies are shaped by the teams tasks and its context and that the
team organization changed as a result of the advancing of the information and communication
technologies. Within the Maznevski study, AST demonstrated the role of advanced information and
communications technology and its appropriation by members of the team as they worked together.
Furthermore, the theory described how the inherent structural characteristics shaped the interaction
patterns without determining the interaction in a specific manner. And, finally, AST identified that it is
more likely associated with the study of organizational effectiveness than are other theories.
Integrating ERP Into the Business Academe
Enterprise Resource Planning is a form of advanced information technology. Critical supply
chain management and eCommerce depend on ERP to drive market expansion. Initially, ERP focused
on technology-driven issues but ERP systems development has now been focused on business-driven
issues and the overall effect of ERP on the business' bottom line (Lerouge, 2004 in citing Menezes,
2000). Lerouge indicates that as a result of the market-driven environment, many institutions of higher
13. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 13
learning have incorporated advanced information technologies, among them, the most important being
ERP, into their business departments. Through the application of AST to the educational context, the
ERP and its specific application within a college of business are interactive processes that are driven by
the educational stakeholders, environmental influences, ERP software stakeholders, and the technology
itself.
Group Decision Making
Advancing information technologies are changing the landscape of how decisions are being
made within organizations and corporations. The concept that is referred to here is computer-supported
or group meeting in which group decision making is enhanced through the use of advancing
information and communications technologies (ICT), specifically the use of computers. Gautschi
(1990) addresses the process whereby individuals or teams collectively brainstorm their ideas over PCs
linked by local area networks using Groupware software in which to aid in the collaborative effort.
Participants vote on issues that are projected on the monitors and hard copies of the results are
distributed after the group session. The use of these advancing information and communications
technologies speed the process of decision making and encourages more people to participate in the
brainstorming effort. Through the use of the fishbowl and Nominal Group Technique as ways of
conducting formalized group decision-making sessions, Gautschi shows that implementing the
advancing ICT within the group sessions alters the way in which the teams are ultimately organized
due to the computer-aided human interaction within the brainstorming sessions. However, Gautschi
cautions that this group decision making process must be supported by the corporate culture or it will
most likely automate a mess rather than achieve a heightened success.
Enterprise Systems Induced Organizational Change
Devadoss and Pan (2007) define the term Enterprise Systems (ES) as industry-specific,
customizable software packages, which allow the integration of the business processes and information
14. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 14
into organizations [in citing Markus & Tanis, 2000; Rosemann & Watson, 2000]. The study conducted
by Devadoss and Pan sought to bridge the gap in ES research by proposing a theoretical framework
that models organizational change that is induced by ES.
Enterprise systems are fundamentally different than other IS, according to Devadoss and Pan
(2007), which they claim requires significant organizational investments in training and human
resources, time, and in terms of technology itself. The study takes the position of Markus and Tanis
(2000) and Davenport (2000) perspective of ES as a compilation of application software, such as ERP,
CRM, sales force automation (SFA), knowledge management (KM), and various product configuration
packages. Devadoss and Pan posit that while ES implementation has received a considerable amount of
attention in the literature, ES use, where many of the ES-associated issues are manifested organization-
wide, has, very often, been neglected, and they set about to show some of the important impacts on
organizations caused by ES use.
In the approach taken by Devadoss and Pan (2007) in their development of a theoretical
framework to show that organizational change is induced by ES, they closely linked business process
redesign (BPR) to ES and showed that the processes involving ES are, by virtue of best practices
embedded within them, are very often potentially in direct conflict with the organization's existing
procedures and practices. They demonstrated that the solution to this problem is to tweak the ERP
software to suit the existing business practices, or to reengineer the organizational business processes to
accommodate the best practices identified in the software with a minimal amount of customization of
the business procedures [Devadoss & Pan in citing Al-Mudimigh et al. 2001].
What Devadoss and Pan (2007) ultimately demonstrated was that ES impacted employee roles
by rendering their respective tasks as more broad-based, which necessitated a move away from the
nature of skills and the knowledge that the employees possess and thus had a direct impact on altering
the organizational makeup of the organization. Devadoss and Pan support the position that technology
15. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 15
is one of the most widely researched factors in shaping organizations [Devadoss & Pan in citing
Woodward, 1965 as supporting and Robey, 1977; Hickson et al., 1969; Kling, 1980 as contradicting].
Devadoss and Pan treated technology as a contingency variable that illustrated the technology
imperative, wherein technology is viewed as an exogenous force that exerts influence on individuals
and organizations [in citing Markus & Robey, 1988]. And, finally, Devadoss and Pan demonstrated
through their theoretical development of ES along the lines of adaptive structuration theory that
organizations exist wholly with the enactment of structures by its members and cannot exist outside of
those structures. By using AST, they contend that ES propagates perceptions of constraint among its
users “which confront users with such facticity as to create opacity of action for them...Actors draw on
these modalities, and through ES-in-practice, enact situated change” (p. 375).
Study of IT Effects on Organizations
In the 1980s, Gerardine DeSanctis and her colleagues at the University of Minnesota launched a
program of design-oriented research in Group decision support systems (GDSS) whose goal was to
better understand the effects of advancing information technologies on group behavior. These effects on
behavior included altered member participation and improved decision quality (see DeSanctis &
Gallupe, 1987 as cited in Markus (2008). It was during their research that Gerardine found inconsistent
results from study to study that indicated that the effects of technology on human behavior are
dependent upon social practices. Thus, the need for a new theory emerged that would avoid the
problems associated with a deterministic view of IT outcomes all-the-while facilitating the study of the
IT effects. The result of the collaboration between Gerardine DeSanctis and a colleague, Marshall Scott
Poole, was Adaptive Structuration Theory, which is now recognized as a seminal contribution to the IS
field (DeSanctis & Poole, 1994).
AST pairs two innovative technology-oriented concepts, structural features and system spirit,
both of which together conceptualize what IT is about that may contribute to the behavioral and social
16. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 16
outcomes of IT use, when these effects occur. Criticism has been leveled against AST (see Jones &
Karsten, 2009) both proponents of Giddens' structuration theory, which was the inspiration for the
development of AST. As it turns out, scholars have more widely used AST for explaining the concept of
users' appropriations of technology as opposed to the concept of structural features and spirit.
AST hypothesizes a link between the embedded structures and spirit and IT effects. “Prior to the
development of an advanced technology, structures are found in the institutions such as reporting
hierarchies, organizational knowledge, and standard operating procedures. Designers incorporate some
of these structures into the technology...” (DeSanctis & Poole, 1994, p. 125). Although DeSanctis and
Poole acknowledged that advancing technologies cannot completely determine outcomes such as
organizational change, they did agree that technology can serve as a trigger of such outcomes (p. 131).
In addition, DeSanctis and Poole viewed the effects of IT use depend on the human agency; that is to
say, the users' appropriations, they additionally viewed the adaptation of IT as causal.
Technology-Mediated Learning Within Organizations
Gupta, S. and Bostrom, R. (2009) no longer view training within most corporations as a cost
center but rather as a strategic center wherein training is used to enhance the productivity of individuals
and to effectively communicate the organizational goals to new employees. Two very important trends
in the area of training within companies are: (1) Technology-mediated learning (TML), and (2) The
movement toward more social forms of learning (Gupta & Bostrom, 2009 in citing Arthur et al., 2003).
Technology-mediated learning is very visible in both corporations and academe today. In 2008,
organizations within the United States employing 100 or more employees spent roughly $134.39Bn on
formal classroom training with 32.6 percent of that training being TML (Gupta & Bostrom in citing
ASTD, 2008). By the end of 2009, Gartner Group predicted that at least 60 percent of core business
software and processes would include TML (Gupta & Bostrom in citing Gartner, 2004). TML employs
a combination of web-based or computer-based learning, asynchronous or synchronous, self-paced or
17. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 17
instructor-led, and individual- or team-based.
Gupta and Bostrom (2009) [in citing Poole & DeSanctis (2003)] created an AST-based
theoretical model of TML and identified seven requirements and a specific process for the proper
application of AST in studying the effects of TML: identification of structures, relationship among
structures, description of the social system, appropriation of the structures, influence on social context
or reciprocal causation, influence of actors, and power dynamics (p. 690). The major strength of the
model and the study is that it allows researchers to emphasize either the actor's influence on structures
or structures' influence on actors, which when applied to TML both in learning-from-computers and
learning-with-computers and “operationalizes the concept of spirit in a TML context and its effect on
building the structural potential of the learning method” (p. 707).
Individual Adaptation of Information Technology
Bhattacherjee and Harris (2009) posit that Adaptive Structuration Theory provides a theoretical
framework for understanding mutual adaptation. Bhattacherjee and Harris also point out that the
Internet and its adaptable technologies are seen as a promise to end the one-size-fits-all approach to
individual adaptability to monolithic mainframe systems. They point out that the question to consider is
whether users will choose to adapt technology and whether this adaptation will improve the extent and
success of information technology. Furthermore, Bhattacherjee and Harris go on to say that present
literature is absent of theory-driven research and that little is known about causative drivers, potential
moderators, and their influences on the outcomes of the adaptation.
The study that Bhattacherjee and Harris (2009) conducted looked at individual—not group—
adaptation of IT and investigated the following: (1) the causative drivers of IT adaptation among
individual users, (2) the outcomes of IT adaptation, and (3) the factors that are dependent upon the
outcomes of IT adaptation. Their study also relied upon the technology acceptance model (TAM) and
AST in constructing their model of IT adaptation by individuals.
18. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 18
The study revealed that among the three elements under investigation, IT adaptation usefulness
emerged as the largest predictor of IT adaptation, closely followed by IT adaptability and ease of
adaptation. The empirical results corroborated the theoretical association between adaptation and usage
behaviors. And, finally, the moderating effect of the association between IT adaptation and post-
adaptive IT usage was found to be significant, which suggested that the expected outcomes of IT
adaptation cannot be fully seen until users initiate corresponding alterations to their own work
structures to accommodate and to take advantage of the IT adaptability (Bhattacherjee & Harris, 2009,
p. 43)..
Findings and Conclusions From the Research
The findings and conclusions were primarily taken from the themes that were identified earlier.
With respect to the treatment of AST to structural theory in IS research, DeSanctis and Poole (1994)
concluded that Adaptive Structuration Theory is a viable approach in studying how the adaptation of IT
by employees drives organizational change based the perspectives of how the types of structures are
provided by the advancing technologies and how the structures emerge due to the human action as they
interact with the emerging technologies. Researchers concluded that the effects of advancing
technologies has more to do with how people use the technologies than about the technologies
themselves. And, finally, DeSanctis and Poole found that the AST framework indicates that the
adaptation of organizational actors is the primary factor that drives organizational change.
With respect to AST as a Meta-Theory for examining IS within organizations, Bostrom, Gupta,
and Thomas (2009) study revealed that adaptive structuration theory serves as a meta-theory for the
study of IS within the socio-technical systems (STS, or organizational work systems) because AST
derives from structuration theory by specifically accounting for the presence and effects of advancing
technology artifacts. And, as a result, Bostrom et al. concluded that AST does a better job at integrating
both the voluntarist and the structural approaches within the augmented structuration theory, and,
19. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 19
therefore, serves as a good meta-theory for examining IS within organizations than does structuration
theory.
Niederman (2008) investigated the contextual and organizational elements of AST in GSS
research and found that by examining the natural reactions of the group members to the introduction of
GSS technology, he discovered that although this examination can provide useful insights and
behavioral knowledge, the organizational settings are enhanced by the selective use of human
interaction and technology for specific purposes. Niederman expanded the previous work of DeSanctis
and Poole (1994) surrounding the context of AST as applied to GSS Research by adding propositions to
the research, which support the continued use of multiple methods research for the purpose of
furthering the utility of GSS in application.
Maznevski (2000) conducted a grounded study of global virtual teams utilizing the Adaptive
Structuration Theory. By studying three global virtual teams over a 21-month period the data he
collected suggested that the benefits from using more complex information and communication
technologies increased as the tasks became more complex. Furthermore, Maznevski showed how AST
demonstrated the role of advanced information and communications technology and its appropriation
by members of the team as they worked together as well as how the inherent structural characteristics
shaped the interaction patterns without determining the interaction in a specific manner.
In the context of group decision making, studies conducted by Gautschi (1990) indicate that
computer-supported group meetings utilizing the advancing technologies offered by Information and
Communications Technology and collaborative-aided software, such as GroupWare, helped to improve
the brainstorming capabilities of groups in the meeting context within organizations.
Research conducted by Devadoss and Pan (2007) sought to bridge the gap in Enterprise
Systems research by proposing a theoretical framework that models organizational change that is
induced by ES. They concluded that ES has the capability to drive organizational change and that ES
20. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 20
use, where many of the ES-associated issues are manifested organization-wide, has been neglected, and
showed some of the important impacts on organizations caused by ES use. Ultimately, Devadoss and
Pan demonstrated that ES impacted employee roles by rendering their respective tasks as more broad-
based, which necessitated a move away from the nature of skills and the knowledge that the employees
possess and thus had a direct impact on altering the organizational makeup of the organization.
With regard to research conducted by DeSanctis and Gallupe (1987); DeSanctis and Poole
(1994) in the area of the direct effects of advancing information technologies on organizations,
although DeSanctis and Poole acknowledged that advancing technologies cannot completely determine
outcomes such as organizational change, they did conclude that technology can serve as a trigger of
such outcomes. Furthermore, DeSanctis and Poole viewed the effects of IT use depend on the human
agency; that is to say, the users' appropriations, they additionally viewed the adaptation of IT as causal.
Gupta, S. and Bostrom, R. (2009) conducted research into the area of technology-mediated
learning within organizations. Gupta and Bostrom created an AST-based theoretical model of TML and
identified seven requirements and a specific process for the proper application of AST in studying the
effects of TML: identification of structures, relationship among structures, description of the social
system, appropriation of the structures, influence on social context or reciprocal causation, influence of
actors, and power dynamics. They concluded that it allows researchers to emphasize either the actor's
influence on structures or structures' influence on actors when applied to TML both in learning-from-
computers and learning-with-computers.
And, finally, in the area of research on the individual adaptation of information technology
within organizations, Bhattacherjee and Harris (2009) posited that the Internet and its adaptable
technologies are seen as a promise to end the one-size-fits-all approach to individual adaptability to
monolithic mainframe systems. Their study relied upon the technology acceptance model (TAM) and
AST in constructing their model of IT adaptation by individuals. The study revealed that IT adaptation
21. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 21
usefulness emerged as the largest predictor of IT adaptation, closely followed by IT adaptability and
ease of adaptation and the empirical results corroborated the theoretical association between adaptation
of IT and usage behaviors in driving organizational change.
Need for Future Research
Through the examination of the literature in preparing this review, we discovered an apparent
gap in the literature that researchers could investigate for additional research in the future. This gap is
in a lack of existing theory-driven research about causative drivers, potential moderators, and their
influences on the outcomes of the individual adaptation of information technology. While it is true that
the Bhattacherjee and Harris (2009) study made great strides in this area, we feel that additional
quantitative research in this area is warranted.
Additionally, in reviewing the research conducted by Maznevski (2000) in global virtual team
dynamics, we feel that further research is needed in this extremely important aspect of adaptation of
advancing technologies on organization change particularly in the context of global virtual team
performance. Management researchers should extend the research already conducted in this area by
Maznevski to develop an even stronger understanding of global virtual team performance and its
impact on organizational change through the adaptation of information technology by focusing on the
relationship between structure and process that enables the researcher to capture the complexities of
global virtual team interaction.
22. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 22
References
Bhattacherjee, A., & Harris, M. (2009). Individual adaptation of Information Technology. Journal of
Computer Information Systems, 50(1), 37-45.
Bostrom, R. P., Gupta, Saurabh, & Thomas, D. (2009). A meta-theory for understanding Information
Systems within sociotechnical systems. Journal of Management Information Systems, 26(1), 17-
47.
DeSanctis, G., & Poole, M. S. (1994). Capturing the Complexity in Advanced Technology Use:
Adaptive Structuration Theory. Organization Science, 5(2), 121-147. INFORMS. doi:
10.1287/orsc.5.2.121.
Devadoss, P., & Pan, S. L. (2007). Enterprise systems use: Towards a structurational analysis of
enterprise systems induced organizations transformation. Communications of AIS, 2007(19), 352-
385.
Gautschi, T. F. (1990). Group decision making--Part III. Design News, 46(19), 336-336. Retrieved from
http://web.ebscohost.com.library.capella.edu/ehost/visual?vid=2&hid=109&sid=327d66e2-7dad-
4a92-98da-674cbbe11131@sessionmgr113.
Gupta, S., & Bostrom, R. (2009). Technology-mediated learning: A comprehensive theoretical model.
Journal of the Association for Information Systems, 10(9), 2009.
Jones, M., & Karsten, H. (2009). Divided by a common language? A response to Marshall Scott Poole.
MIS Quarterly, 33(3), 589-595. Retrieved October 30, 2010, from
http://web.ebscohost.com.library.capella.edu/ehost/visual?vid=2&hid=112&sid=fd5f9a98-c9de-
464c-8aa9-2a73c3ba9bab%40sessionmgr114.
23. HOW ADVANCING TECHNOLOGIES DRIVE ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE 23
Lerouge, C. (2004). Appropriating enterprise resource planning systems in colleges of business:
Extending adaptive structuration theory for testability. Journal of Information Systems Education,
15(3), 2004.
Mamaghani, F. (2006). Impact of information technology on the workforce of the future: An analysis.
International Journal of Management, 23(4), 845-850.
Markus, M. L. (2008). A foundation for the study of IT effects: A new look at DeSanctis and Poole s
ʼ
concepts of structural features and spirit. Journal of the Association for Information Systems,
9(10), 609-632.
Maznevski, M. L. (2000). Bridging space over time: Global virtual team dynamics and effectiveness.
Organization Science, 11(5), 473-492.
Niederman, F. (2008). Extending the contextual and organizational elements of adaptive structuration
theory in GSS research. Journal of the Association for Information Systems, 9(10), 633-652.
Poole, M. S., & DeSanctis, G. (2004). Structuration Theory in Information Systems Research: Methods
and Controversies. In M. E. Whitman & A. Woszcynski (Eds.), Handbook of Information Systems
Research (pp. 206-249). Hershey, PA: Idea Group Publishing.