Electronic data interchange: Characteristics of users and nonusers

This study finds that the acceptance of this technology is growing steadily and its users are generally satisfied with performance, and it is found that EDI calls for a better educated work force.

Abstract

Information exchange between a firm and its customers and suppliers is vital for the business. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the new frontier of communication technology that facilitates information exchange. This study is aimed at defining key issues of EDI from both users' and nonusers' perspectives. We examine the positive and negative impact of various factors on the EDI selection decision, and the impact of EDI on the firm's employees. To this end, we surveyed both users and nonusers to get the proper perspective of underlying issues in adopting EDI. Our study finds that the acceptance of this technology is growing steadily. Customer and peer pressure and the desire for speedier and better communications are major motivators for using EDI. We find that its users are generally satisfied with performance. Also, EDI calls for a better educated work force. We also discuss the significance of our findings.