Toward an Understanding of the Behavioral Intention to Use a Groupware Application

Groupware technologies have become an important part of the business computing and communicating infrastructure in many organizations. However, literature suggests that many groupware applications, especially those requiring significant collaboration and cooperation among users, are still not adequately used (Nunamaker, 1997; Orlikowski, 1993). Their potential benefits are far from being fully realized due to the lack of user acceptance. While there are studies that show the relevance and positive impact of group support systems on group work, very few have looked into users’ perception of the groupware technologies and their motivation to participate (Nunamaker, 1997). Expectancy theory is considered one of the most promising models of individual motivation. This study examines the use of expectancy theory in explaining the behavioral intention (motivation) to use a groupware application. Data gathered from 86 student users in a judgment modeling exercise suggest that the model is a significant predictor of users’ motivation. The successful use of expectancy theory also suggests that it is appropriate for assessing and understanding users’ motivation to use a groupware application and, subsequently, its acceptance and success. Since user acceptance is an essential antecedent of a successful groupware application, the results of this study should be considered thoughtfully when a groupware application is designed, implemented, and operated.