When Form and Function Combine: Hedonizing Business Information Systems for Enhanced Ease of Use

The Information Systems (IS) discipline has so far focused largely on Utilitarian aspects rather than the Hedonic. The reason might lie in the computing disciplines\´ origins in disciplines that emphasize hard science, efficiency, and utility [44]. Although there are "Hedonic Information Systems", they have been developed primarily for non-business use of computing such as those for entertainment, socialization, and lifestyle augmentation. In this article it is suggested that the time is ripe for introducing Hedonic elements even in those systems designed for business use. Further the study discovers, models, and tests the role of hedonic and utilitarian attributes of IS in engendering ease of use perceptions, a primary predictor of usability and actual system use. The results of the study provide support for the relevance of providing Hedonic attributes in enhancing the ease of use perception of business users of IS products.