Using intranets: preliminary results from a socio-technical field study

This paper describes research-in-progress that examines the relative influences of internal and external factors on the development and use of intranets, as a particular case of information and communication technologies (ICTs). This three-phase qualitative study integrates cross-sectional, comparative and traversal methodologies to identify where it could be adjective to combine socio-technical theory (emphasizing individuals and social groups) with institutional approaches (emphasizing interaction through influence and regulation). Preliminary results suggest that a balance of pressures are at work, with external factors motivating the use of intranets and other forms of web information systems within the constraints of local organizational contexts.