Assessment of models of diffusion of information technology:

Abstract

This study reports an empirical assessment of models used by Hanna et al, in their study titled "The diffusion of Information Technology: Experience of Industrial Countries and Lessons for Developing countries". The models were developed to provide a framework of analysis of Diffusion programs practiced in eight OECD countries with the aim of drawing lessons that could be for developing countries IT diffusion programs. This assessment was carried out on a conveniently selected multinational organisation subsidiary operating in a developing world. The assessment related the models against actual experience of this organisation to test the consistency of the models and their applicability almost 10 years after their development. This result of the assessment is that the models are still valid and that the suggestions and recommendation despite being broad can still be useful for policy makers in designing diffusion programs and also in the assessment of the impact of current policies. The models are also useful in identifying barriers to diffusion and identifying specific mechanisms that may be used to tackle them.