The Cultural Impact on Information System Utilization : A comparative study between Sweden and Nicaragua

Abstract: Information system (IS) utilization and success are influenced by culture due to that the management is handled by individuals and their values that affect their behavior. Therefore, culture is an important aspect for implementation and evaluation of an information system and IS utilization. Some countries absorb the technical development easier than others which can be the reason for several failed IS implementations. This makes an impact on globalization due to the difficulties to implement information systems in subsidiaries. The purpose of this research was to study the cultural impact on IS utilization by identifying the cultural factors that impacts IS utilization and furthermore how an addition of a cultural dimension in IS utilization theories can affect implementation and evaluation of an information system. To study this, the theory Task-Technology Fit (TTF) was used for the collection of empirical data which further was analyzed with Hofstede´s dimensions of national culture. The conducted study was a qualitative method with a deductive approach conducted through interviews and observations of partner companies in Sweden and Nicaragua. The result identified problem areas in the two partner companies regarding utilization of selected systems and further, the result describes the different parts that affect a fit between the technology and the tasks it is meant to accomplish. The result was discussed with the analysis of Hofstede´s dimensions of national culture to identify cultural factors and aspects that could explain why the fit between technology and the tasks were not ultimate. The connection between culture and IS utilization are further discussed together with how the knowledge and awareness of cultural impact can provide benefits for multinational businesses. The conclusion argued the importance of knowledge contribution has due to globalization, factors that affect the cultural impact and what a separated dimension for culture in IS utilization theories could provide for the multinational businesses.