The Dynamics of Factors Explaining EDI Diffusion in Hong Kong in the late 1990's

In this paper we analyze how factors of electronic data interchange diffusion evolve over time. Our premise is that factors that capture the diffusion of complex, standard-based and networked technologies are not static but change over time as the technology matures, the institutional arrangement changes and industries become more sophisticated in their technology application. Based on longitudinal field study data collected in 1994, 1995, and 1998 we deliver an account of the EDI diffusion factors in Hong Kong and how they evolved over time. The field study collected organizational, industry and environmental factors that together help explain the diffusion of EDI in Hong Kong. Our analysis shows that factors can change dramatically. This can provide interesting insights into how and why changes in EDI use have happened. On a theoretical level we call for more in-depth field studies when trying to capture and understand the diffusion of complex, standard-based, and networked technologies.