An Empirical Investigation of the Equity Implementation Model: An Alternative Lens for Understanding Technology Adoption

Many studies of technology adoption have noted that new technology can have far-reaching effects, dramatically changing the environment (e.g., work, home, school) in which we use the technology. The current research operationalizes the equity implementation model (EIM) to provide an equity/fairness perspective on technology adoption in the context of online discussion tools. The EIM applies equity theory to assess user outcomes and inputs related to adopting a new technology in comparison to the outcomes and inputs of other technology stakeholders. Equity theory provides an alternative lens for understanding technology adoption that may capture broader issues related to the changes resulting from new technology. A survey instrument measuring these equity constructs is developed, and a longitudinal, empirical study of the EIM (and other determinants of technology adoption) is conducted. The results indicate that the instrument and model exhibit good measurement properties, and the model provides explanatory power comparable to most models of technology adoption.