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- Longton, B. (1988). 'Management behaviour and management information systems'. Ph.D. Dissertation. Open University.
http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=743671931&Fmt=2&clientId=44986&RQT=309&VName=PQD
The literature has identified that user managers have experienced difficulties in playing a positive and effective role in the design and development of their computer based management information sources. This was not seen as a problem with more traditional sources and implied that managers' existing cognitive structures for making sense of their information source world are not adequately coping with computer based sources.
The research was carried out within the Electricity Supply Industry in England and Wales. It used the repertory grid technique with 85 middle managers to assess the mathematical relationships and structure which were related to the underlying psychological processes associated with management information sources.
In particular, the research examined the impact of computer based management information source experience and training on managers' overall 'richness of view' of all information sources. Richness of view being assessed by a measure of cognitive complexity. Secondly, the research set out to establish a common set of judgements/dimensions with which managers assess all information sources.
The thesis shows the managers' perceived view of the cognitive effort required to use any information source is determined by criteria associated with the three major judgemental dimensions identified, ie. ease of use, type of communication (how natural), and the situation of the source. This perceived cognitive effort is shown to be reflected in the manager's measure of cognitive complexity. In turn, this value of cognitive complexity is shown to reflect a measure of a manager's attitude towards his information system.
Paths for future research on this novel way of assessing attitude are described after the research methodology has been reviewed. These paths could lead to improvements in system design and development and monitoring Information Technology Appreciation programmes.
