Factors influencing organizational information systems implementation in Thai public universities

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to understand how public sector organizations can successfully implement organizational information systems (IS). It identifies the factors that contribute to the success of organizational IS implementation in public universities. Design/methodology/approach Both qualitative and quantitative research methods are used. The proposed research model is based on previous studies and primary qualitative research, including in-depth interviews, telephone surveys and mail surveys using semi-structured questionnaires to identify the determinants and measures of implementation success. Based on the first mail survey’s results, quantitative research is conducted to test the research hypotheses. The data are gathered from university personnel at 40 public universities, and the study focuses on the implementation of student registration systems. Findings The results suggest that successful implementation of organizational IS includes the decisions of both those in authority and users. The external and internal organization and individual user factors have direct relationships with the measure of implementation success, which suggests significant differences between authorities and users. Research limitations The analysis is based on the viewpoint of public university personnel; however, the findings suggest the need for further research on other public organizational IS as well as other public service operations. Practical implication The study clearly suggests a set of factors to guide public universities in successfully implementing organizational IS for local conditions of a developing country. Originality/value The study contributes to the understanding of effective IS implementation in public universities in a developing country.