Modelling the predictors of e-service use among information systems users
ISSN: 0737-8831
Article publication date: 2 December 2020
Issue publication date: 14 February 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This paper sought to validate a proposed e-service use model that takes into account system's environment and user factors as plausible determinants of an information system's (IS) use that are not accounted for by previous IS use models. The aim is to establish the applicability of the model for e-services and IS design, implementation and use.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopts a quantitative approach to data collection and analysis. Using a systematic multi-stage random sampling, data were collected from 400 university e-library users and analysed using regression analysis to test the hypothesised relationships.
Findings
Internal system factors (particularly service quality), user satisfaction, e-service environment factors and user factors (gender, programme of study, level of study and computer/IT self-efficacy) predicted the use of e-services. These findings are partly similar to and partly different from those of the earlier studies, suggesting that more studies are needed to test the comprehensive model of e-services’ use.
Research limitations/implications
This is a replicated study and as such made use of a similar population. These findings, therefore, cannot be generalised to other organisations with users of different demographic profiles.
Practical implications
First, the use of the services provided through an IS is predicted by factors other than user satisfaction, system, service and information qualities. Second, system administrators, designers, library administrators and managers must ensure that these factors are considered during the design, implementation and use of ISs.
Social implications
The paper argues for the need to design e-services and ISs with consideration for user attributes that may lead to social exclusion if not considered. This is because the environment where an IS is hosted can be a driver of e-services use, especially if management provides the enabling environment in terms of optimal staffing, training, user support and periodic e-service evaluation.
Originality/value
This paper extends research effort in understanding the predictors of use of ISs beyond the traditional system's attributes (information, service and system qualities) to include system environment and user factors.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This paper forms part of a special section “Wayfinding from the User's Perspective: The Connection between User Experience and Library Wayfinding”, guest edited by Ryan Litsey.
Citation
Umukoro, I.O. and Tiamiyu, M.A. (2022), "Modelling the predictors of e-service use among information systems users", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 40 No. 1, pp. 222-238. https://doi.org/10.1108/LHT-01-2020-0018
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited