2003-1.
Using Fine-Grained Likert Scales in Web Surveys
Kieran Mathieson and David Doane
Online surveys permit item types that are not feasible on paper surveys.
This paper examines the fine-grained Likert scale. Unlike the usual Likert
scale, respondents can select points between the anchors, yielding
non-integer responses. The paper (1) presents code implementing the scale on
a Web-based survey, (2) tests the effect of the scale on power, and (3)
presents data on respondents' use of the scale in practice. We conclude that
the extra effort needed to implement the scale is worthwhile.
Key words: Measurement,
empirical, simulation, psychometric, ASP
Date added: August 27, 2003
File size: 1,423K
2003-2.
Conceptualization of User Acceptance and Resistance in System Implementation Research: A Re-examination of Constructs
Thomas Lauer and Balaji Rajagopalan
Information systems research has focused on studying system implementation using two important constructs: user acceptance and resistance. Most prior studies have conceptualized these constructs as being at two ends of a continuum. As such, models have been developed primarily to explain user acceptance with the underlying assumption that non-acceptance would be tantamount to resistance and hence, understanding acceptance can help alleviate resistance. We argue that this simple conceptualization of the acceptance-resistance relationship is inadequate for a thorough examination of user behavior in system implementation. Using several vignettes of user resistance we examine the relationship between acceptance and resistance. Towards further understanding this relationship we propose a framework that is based on the premise that under certain circumstances apparent acceptance may in fact be resistance and resistance may signal serious problems and serve as constructive criticism. Implications for IS researchers include the need to re-examine the conceptualizations of acceptance and resistance constructs. For information systems managers a better understanding of resistance can lead to better strategies for managing system implementation.
Key words: Systems implementation, user acceptance, user
resistance, information technology adoption
Date added: November 21, 2003
File size: 412K
