| Increasingly, organizations are using complex technolologies such as enterprise resource management (ERP) to improve their decision making and their chances for success and survival by, for instance, reducing operational and inventory costs, increasing sales, and enhancing business operations. Frequently, however, users of the technology often cite a lack of ownership as the root cause for failed implementations of technology. To date, however, no research exists on the connection between concepts of ownership and the effective implementation and use of complex technology. Drawing upon theories of psychological ownership, empowerment, technology, agency, expectancy, and organizational commitment, this study uses a mixed-method approach, based on grounded theory and employing statistical analyses, to examine the characteristics of ownership and to discover if ownership in complex technology is an important factor in its effective implementation and use. Data were obtained from interviews with 8 members of a team recently involved in implementing a complex technology system at a mid-size company; and from a qualitative and quantitative Internet survey of 33 members of professional organizations for practitioners in manufacturing and operations management. Results from these interviews and surveys reveal a positive relationship between (1) the interactive effects of change ownership variables and the implementation process used, and (2) the composition of the implementation team. A cutover implementation style leads to more control by the implementation team and increases opportunities for decision-making, which in turn creates greater ownership in the new technology. Furthermore, when the implementation team is comprised of individuals from functional departments such as accounting or customer service, as opposed to traditional IT departments, the degree of ownership in the technology increases. Both of these factors---the cutover implementation style and the user-composition of the implementation team---predict the effectiveness and successful use of complex technology. Other considerations for fostering ownership include providing effective training and resources, nurturing a culture of ownership, and creating an organizational context in which individuals at all levels are given authority and responsibility for technological processes. The study concludes with implications for practitioners and researchers. |
