An investigation of task-technology fit for managers in Greece and the US

Abstract

Based on a task-technology fit (TTF) model, this study adds to our understanding of how computer-based information systems (CBIS) support managerial decision making. Based on four views of decision making and various classifications of CBIS, the findings indicate that both the Greek and US managers value CBIS most highly for resource allocation, evaluating alternatives, identifying problems, ranking alternatives, and short-term decision making. Few TTF differences were found between Greek and US managers. One difference, concerning the value of office information systems, may have arisen from technological differences; however, additional research is needed to understand if these TTF differences arise from technological or cultural differences. Two surprising hypotheses emerge from the findings to provide guidance for future research: (1) standard, fixed-schedule, fixed-format information reporting systems (IRS) provide greater value for managers than more flexible decision support systems (DSS), at least for some managerial decision-making activities, and (2) the amount of use of a CBIS is not directly related to its perceived value. Overall, the results indicate that the fit between managerial decision-making activities, and CBIS has considerable room for improvement.