An investigation of the factors that influence electronic information sharing between state and local agencies

The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence local government participation in electronic information sharing with state agencies. Information technologies can help government agencies to increase productivity and performance, improve policy-making and provide better public services to the citizens. Although extensive amount of information sharing among agencies is important for effective IT management in government, there is still little information available about the factors that antecede electronic information sharing between local and state agencies. Synthesizing well-established theories such as diffusion of innovations, critical mass theory and social exchange theory, I propose that local government participation in electronic information sharing with state agencies will be determined by system characteristics, agency characteristics, collaboration factors and external factors. The proposed study will include both qualitative and quantitative techniques. In the first phase of my study, I will conduct multiple case studies of local agencies that are participating/not participating in an electronic information sharing initiative with state agencies in a southeastern state of the United States. I will also interview key decision makers from the state agencies. In the second phase of my study, I will administer a survey to randomly selected local government agencies from across the United States. Based on my findings, I will identify a preliminary set of strategies that could be used to increase electronic information sharing between local and state agencies.