Application of socio-technical research methods in understanding the genesis and potential sustainability of planning support systems

Abstract

This research compares two methodologies to gain an insight into which may best fit the research of Planning Support Systems (PSS) used in planning practice. The approach taken by this research is twofold; firstly using data collected through case studies and the application of Actor-Network Theory (ANT), and secondly, an online questionnaire of staff in government and private practice. The questionnaire data was analysed using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Results of applying ANT can provide useful insights into the social and technical interactions that are relied upon to build and implement a PSS. Moreover, the UTAUT results found that in order for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) applications to be widely accepted by planners, the organizations in which they work need to address performance expectancy and facilitating conditions as priorities. Although the methods used in this research are vastly different, results have been found to be somewhat complimentary.