Evelyn Naa Norkor Nortey, Anthony Adjei-Twum, Eugene Okyere-Kwakye and Tahiru Alhassan
The integration of technology into facilities management is essential for the seamless operation of organisations, encompassing a diverse range of activities that support the…
Abstract
Purpose
The integration of technology into facilities management is essential for the seamless operation of organisations, encompassing a diverse range of activities that support the functionality, safety and sustainability of built environments. Thus, technology in facilities management has transformed the way organisations operate, enhancing efficiency, sustainability and user experience. This study examined the adoption of information technology (IT) for the successful implementation of facilities management (FM) systems in public institutions in Ghana using the technology acceptance model (TAM).
Design/methodology/approach
The study employed a survey design involving 100 facilities management practitioners from public institutions within the Greater Accra Region.
Findings
The perceived ease of use of the system was significantly influenced positively by the availability of IT system and usability of FM system; similarly, perceived usefulness was found to be significantly influenced positively by the security and functionality of FM system. Acceptance and use of FM system by facilities management practitioners was also found to be significantly influenced positively by perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness of FM system.
Research limitations/implications
The findings challenge managers and researchers to acknowledge that the availability IT resources, confidentiality and security, usability and functionality are very critical factors that influence facility management professionals’ intention to adopt IT for their work. Facilities managers must consider automating IT systems for innovative and smart FM services.
Originality/value
The paper establishes the elements that influence FM practitioners in organisations to adopt IT in executing their functions.
Details
Keywords
Gladys Esinu Abiew, Eugene Okyere-Kwakye and Florence Yaa Akyia Ellis
Underpinned by the information processing theory, this study aims to investigate the relationship between functional diversity and team innovation by examining the moderating role…
Abstract
Purpose
Underpinned by the information processing theory, this study aims to investigate the relationship between functional diversity and team innovation by examining the moderating role of some selected cultural dimensions (power distance, uncertainty avoidance and masculinity-femininity) in the relationship between functional diversity and innovation.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative research method was used using a structured questionnaire as a tool to collect data from 251 respondents drawn from research institutions in Ghana. Data was analysed using simple regression and hierarchical multiple regression. In addition, a structural equation model was used to conduct confirmatory factor analyses to examine whether the variables in the hypothesized model for the study captured distinct constructs that the variables were designed to measure.
Findings
The study revealed that functional diversity was positively related to team innovation. The study also found that functionally diverse groups are more innovative when they exhibit low uncertainty avoidance, femininity and low power distance.
Practical implications
These findings suggest that practices such as team communication, honesty, respect and trust would foster team unity and commitment, which would enable members to share diverse expertise towards the creation and execution of new ideas and improvement of productivity in the country.
Originality/value
The study examined the relationship between functional diversity and team innovation by examining the moderating role of some selected cultural dimensions (power distance, uncertainty avoidance and masculinity-femininity) in the relationship between functional diversity and innovation.
Details
Keywords
Eugene Okyere-Kwakye and Khalil Md Nor
Electronic library (E-library) is a form of computer mediated system that uses electronic media, such as Web/internet devices and distributes resources to improve on the quality…
Abstract
Purpose
Electronic library (E-library) is a form of computer mediated system that uses electronic media, such as Web/internet devices and distributes resources to improve on the quality of teaching and learning. Students’ use of e-library for learning is essential and as such the government has invested hugely into its subscription for several university libraries in Ghana. However, most university students feel reluctant to use the e-library resources for their studies. The purpose of this paper is therefore to examine the factors that influence students’ intention to use e-library resources for their studies.
Design/methodology/approach
Questionnaire was used to collect data from 200 students from one Technical University in Ghana. Structural equation modeling (SmartPLS) was used to analyze the data.
Findings
The study found that accessibility, attitude, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness and relevance to studies have positive significant effect on students’ attitude to use e-library. In addition, self-efficacy, subjective norm and attitude have positive significant influence on students’ intention to use e-library.
Research limitations/implications
Although the sample frame used for this study may be unique, but the total amount of data collected was limited to providing the general representative of the Ghanaian students in one particular university. Other researchers may consider collecting data from other universities to extend the sample frame for a larger sample size of students.
Practical implications
Academic administrators need to organize training and workshops on how to use the e-library portal for their search and other didactic assignments. Most importantly, students should be given IT or internet tutorials as foundation for the use of the e-library portal.
Social implications
Universities have to provide internet access such as hotspot and network routers at the labs, classrooms and other vantage points. It is believed that with these in place, adequate access to the internet would promote students’ engagement on the e-library facility.
Originality/value
The study examines the factors that influence students’ intention to use e-library resources for their studies in Ghana.