A framework for studying computer support of organizational infrastructure

Abstract This paper introduces a framework for studying organizational computing. Its pivotal construct relates technological infrastructure to the purposes for which organizational infrastructure exists and the activities that it enables. Drawing on a diverse body of organization science literature, the framework identifies five purposes. It also involves a progression of five types of activities. From this, we derive a taxonomy for computer-based support of organizations. We also derive research models for guiding empirical research concerned with studying the fit between organizational and technological infrastructure.

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