Towards a unified theory of fit: Task, technology and individual

Abstract

Fit between task requirements, user abilities and system characteristics has both intuitive appeal and empirical support as a driver of performance with information technology. Yet despite the volume of research on the construct, there is no unified theory that encompasses the key elements of the different fit constructs. Different studies employ different definitions of fit, both conceptually and operationally. Furthermore, while greater insight is obtained by considering the dynamics of fit and performance over time, prior work has largely focused on fit as a static point-in-time construct. In this paper a unified theory of fit is developed and a comprehensive fit taxonomy is derived. Finally, the theory and definition are shown to extend to a more dynamic conceptualisation of fit.