Global Information Technology Transfer: A Framework for Analysis

Abstract

Effective application of information technology (IT) is considered a requirement for organizations that wish to compete in the global marketplace of the future. However, a review of IT transfer research finds that few models incorporate the factors which research indicates are critical to global IT transfer success. This article develops a framework that categorizes global IT transfers based on their scope (intra- organizational vs. inter-organizational) and connectivity (standalone vs. networked). Then this global IT transfer framework is used to compare and contrast global IT applications, to classify global IT research literature, and to identify some factors that could be incorporated into existing IT theories and models to ensure that their conclusions are valid for global applications. Finally, specific suggestions are given for future research in global IT transfer.