A note on interpersonal information system use

An adaptive interpersonal use model is advanced as a new alternative, and the concepts of self-use, other-provision, and other-use are suggested for the description of various usage roles which may be assumed by the individual within the organization.

Abstract

Two major design alternatives for the use of a management information system (MIS) have been advanced in the literature to date. The first calls for the direct interaction of the manager with the computer-based system by means of a remote terminal, i.e., for the personal use of the system. The second calls for the employment of an intermediary, or “chauffeur”, i.e., for a special form of interpersonal use of the system. Results from the case study of one MIS suggests that both of these alternatives may be inadequate as a design basis. An adaptive interpersonal use model is advanced as a new alternative, and the concepts of self-use, other-provision, and other-use are suggested for the description of various usage roles which may be assumed by the individual within the organization.