Knowledge workers' use of support software in Saudi Arabia

Abstract The study reports from a survey, in Saudi Arabia, of the use of applications software by knowledge workers. Results indicate that user productivity is positively related to satisfaction and negatively to alienation. Knowledge workers in Saudi Arabia generally use low-end applications software. Expert Systems and 4 GL's are rarely used in a micro-environmnet. Informal knowledge sources are more significantly correlated with higher proficiency and productivity of knowledge workers than are the formal sources. Computer periodicals are an important information source for successful users. Younger knowledge workers are more productive than the older ones. Sharing with others has a negative effect on productivity. Implications of the use of applications software by knowledge workers in developing countries are discussed.

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