Chauffeured Versus End User Access to Commercial Databases: The Effects of Task and Individual Differences*

This field study investigated the task and individual characteristics of 184 professionals who accessed commercial database services to acquire external information directly (as “end users”) or through an intermediary (“chauffeur”). Chauffeured access appears to be most appropriate when the individual has a one-time need for new information while direct access appears to be most appropriate when a database is used on a regular basis by the same individual. The results of this study are consistent with prior research which suggests that multiple access arrangements are necessary in order for organizations to make effective use of these and other types of online database systems.