Technology task fit

During the past decade, one of the most significant model of infromation technology utiization

behavior is technology task fit model. Furthermore, the task-technology theory is used as the

foundation for a theoretical model , that focuses on the match between user task needs and the

available functionality of the IT. The first paper discusses the theoretical background of

TTF(task-technology fit) model. [1] The capability of IT to support a task is emerged by the

formal structure known as tasktechnology fit model, which assume matching of the ability of

the technology to the needs of the task.[2] TTF postulates that IT is used only when the functions

are available to the user support (fit) the activities of the user. For instance, rational advanced

users prefer to choose those tools and methods that help them to achieve task goals with the

greatest net benefit. The basic concepts of TTF and models are seen around it as shown in Fig.1

The theory of work adjustment, which is foundation theory of TTF, suggestes the idea of the

correlation between the capabilities of an individual and the ability requirements of a job in

understanding an individual's contentment for the profession. [3]

The first and most common research identify that the "fit" focus has been most evident in

research on the impact of graphs versus tables on individual decision-making performance. For

example, two studies illustrate that over a series of laboratory experiments, the influence of data

representation on performance seemed to depend on fit with the task (Benbasat, et al., 1986;

Dickson, et al.. 1986). Another study proposes that mismatches between data representations (a

technology characteristic) and tasks would decrease decisionmaking performance by requiring

additional translations between data representations or decision processes {Vessey, 1991). Still

others found strong support for this linkage between "cognitive fit" and performance in

laboratory experiments {Jarvenpaa. 1989; Vessey, 1991).[4]

As shown in Fig 2, High TTF is not only a reason for enhancing the likelihood of utilization, but

also impact on improving the perfomance of the system , since it more closely meets the task

requirements of the individual.

Furhermore, TTF theories assume that the use of technology may have reverse outcomes,

according to its structure and the task for which it is used. [7] The next study pointed out, that
integration TTF and social cognitive theory (SCT) have significant impact on Knowledge

Management System (KMS) usage. This research provided a new angle to better determine a

complexity and diversity of KMS task with the use of TTF as a main tool to analyze KMS usage.

Therefore, the main purpose of the study is to expand task technology fit with SCT to engage

major cognitive forces in exploring the factors of KMS usage. For example, SCT ensures

personal cognition complement to TTF and thus, the integrated theory emerged us to deeper

analyze KMS application from the outlook of organizational task, technology and personal

motivation perspectives. Received TTF relies on the agreement between the perceived abilities

of the technology, the requirements of the task, and the competence of the users.[8] The results

have shown two major advices, that may be suggested to KMS managerial personnel and

practitioners. One of them assumes that since task interdependence is closely correlated to KMS

application, KMS should be developed at places where jobs or tasks emerge for

interdependence.[5]

References:

[1] Dishaw, M. T., & Strong, D. M. (1999). Extending the technology acceptance model with

tasktechnology fit constructs. Information & management, 36(1), 9-21.

[2] D.L Goodhue, R.L Thompson

Tasktechnology fit and individual performance
MIS Quarterly, 19 (2) (1995), pp. 213236

[3] D.L. Goodhue, Supporting users of corporate data: the effect of I/S policy choices, unpublished
Doctoral Dissertation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1988

[4] Goodhue, D. L., & Thompson, R. L. (1995). Task-technology fit and individual

performance. MIS quarterly, 213-236.

[5] Lin, T. C., & Huang, C. C. (2008). Understanding knowledge management system usage

antecedents: An integration of social cognitive theory and task technology fit. Information &

Management, 45(6), 410-417.

[6] Maruping, L. M., & Agarwal, R. (2004). Managing team interpersonal processes

through technology: a task-technology fit perspective. Journal of Applied Psychology, 89(6),

975.

[7] D.L. Goodhue, R.L. Thompson, Task-technology fit and individual performance, MIS

Quarterly 19 (2), 1995, pp. 213236

[8] ] B.L. Marcolin, D.R. Compeau, M.C. Munro, Assessing user competence: conceptualization and measurement,
Information Systems Research 11 (1), 2000, pp. 3760