| The majority of existing information systems (IS) theories and research do not speak to the complexities inherent in today's many-to-many relationship between users and their technologies. These relationships are further complicated as many users interact with other users, who also use many technologies. A paradigm shift is required such that our research moves beyond studying one technology in isolation toward the investigation of multiple technologies within the whole suite of a user's systems. One example where such a shift is needed is the study of computer-mediated communication. As one step in this direction, this dissertation examines the impacts of multi-communicating, or using communication technologies to engage in multiple conversations at the same time, for both the focal individual juggling multiple conversations and his or her communication partners. In the first study of this research program, an exploratory qualitative methodology is used to conduct on-site structured observations and interviews to explore the concept of multi-communicating intensity and the particular task and relational outcomes associated with multi-communicating in the workplace. Based on the results of this qualitative study, two models of multi-communicating outcomes are developed. The next stage of this research consists of a survey (Study 2) to test the model of multi-communicating outcomes from the perspective of the focal individual. Before testing this model, a series of preliminary studies were conducted in order to develop and test newly created scales, to develop validated measures of media fit and media characteristics, and to gain a preliminary understanding of the multiple dimensions of multi-communicating intensity. The final study also uses a survey methodology to test the model of multi-communicating outcomes but this time from the perspective of the communication partner. Based on the results from Studies 2 and 3, a revised model of multi-communicating outcomes emerged. The theoretical and practical contributions of this program of research are discussed, as well as limitations and suggestions for future research. |
