Abstract
Existing information systems research thoroughly explains how task-technology fit and appropriation affect performance on an individual or group level. This was appropriate for many years, as technology is typically used to fulfill a certain task on these levels. Today, however, companies are tightly interconnected and rely on business networks to develop, produce, and deliver products and services. They collaboratively engage in joint implementation and utilization of new technologies that are applied and integrated into their business processes. These technologies, such as the newly introduced blockchain technology, operate across business networks and, thus, unfold their benefits not only on an individual or group level, but ideally on a network level. On this level, though, knowledge of the application and performance of information technology is still scarce. To drive the performance of technology in such networks, we investigate the impact of fit and technology appropriation on a network level. Due to the technology’s expected impact and characteristics, we select blockchain technology to explore potential factors, impacting fit, appropriation and, in turn, performance. We draw upon a set of interviews with experts that have implemented blockchain solutions in large business network settings. Based on our analysis, we propose a comprehensive model elevating the Fit-Appropriation Model to a network level. We contribute to the general understanding of technology utilization and performance by extending existing theory to a network-level perspective. Using insights on blockchain implementations as our empirical base, we also provide guidance to business leaders, intending to connect their partners through blockchain technology.
Highlights
Today, company success increasingly relies on the capability to build and manage partnerships and business networks for the development and provisioning of products and services (Amaral et al 2011; Ritter and Gemünden 2003), thereby, integrating resources and capabilities of the involved network partners (Gulati et al 2000 ; Hargadon and Sutton 1997)
To explore the impact of task-technology fit and technology appropriation in business networks, we aim to answer the following research question: How do task-technology fit as well as technology appropriation influence the performance of an information systems (IOIS)-based business network? We study IOIS based on blockchain technology, since it is driving the convergence of organizations towards a network-based economy
We explore how task-technology fit as well as technology appropriation influence the performance of an IOIS-based business network
Summary
Company success increasingly relies on the capability to build and manage partnerships and business networks for the development and provisioning of products and services (Amaral et al 2011; Ritter and Gemünden 2003), thereby, integrating resources and capabilities of the involved network partners (Gulati et al 2000 ; Hargadon and Sutton 1997). Information technology has contributed and accelerated this development by serving as an enabler for efficient communication and the exchange of information across organizations This facilitates the transformation from working and thinking in narrow value chains to adopting a much broader business network perspective (Weill and Woerner 2015). Participants of an IOIS that is built upon blockchain rely on the technology’s algorithms They are not dependent on intermediaries or the reputation of a company to provide trust in the network (Rauchs et al 2018). Blockchain is a very versatile technology and provides the means for customization, as it is not limited to a specific field of application or purpose (Glaser 2017) As multipurpose technology, it can be adopted in various IOIS settings, which again underscores its potential impact on the development of future IOIS
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
