A feedback model to understand information system usage

A significant portion of the risk that is assumed by the developer of an information system (IS) is whether end-users will actually use it. Past models in IS research have listed external variables (such as technical features and organizational environment) as well as internal psychological variables (such as past education and attitude to system use) as influencing the continued usage of the IS. In this work, we extend these models and propose and test a new model that posits that attitudes may also be shaped by past behavior (usage of the system). Past usage apparently influences the ease of use of the system and this is a key factor in determining future usage. A longitudinal model was tested using statistical panel data techniques with instrumental constructs. The model has implications for IS theory as well as providing guidelines for industry on the implementation of new ISs. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.