Use and perceived value of computer-based information systems in supporting the decision making of German

Abstract

This study surveyed a sample of German managers to investigate the amount of information technology (IT) these managers used and their perceived value and satisfaction with their existing computer-based information systems (CBIS) in providing helpful information for making successful and effective decisions. A detailed analysis of the responses produced the following findings: (1) The German sample of managers was predominantly male, older, had several college computer courses, and was comprised mainly of middle and top level managers. (2) The German managers used IT rather heavily, approximately 10 hours per week. This result was similar to those reported in several previous studies. (3) First-line managers were the heaviest users of IT and perceived the greatest value of CBIS for decision making. Top level managers were the lightest users of IT but perceived greater value of CBIS than middle managers. From the functional areas, managers in information systems and accounting/finance were the heaviest users of IT and perceived the greatest value of CBIS. For the overall sample, there was a significant correlation between amount of use of IT and perceived value of CBIS. (4) The majority of the respondents were confident that the information they were getting from their CBIS was not compromised due to lack of adequate security. (5) About half of the responding managers reported that they helped specify more than sixty percent (60%) of the content or format of the information presented to them by CBIS. (6) Eighty four percent (84%) of the respondents rated their corporation's amount of investment in IT to support managerial needs as adequate or better.