| The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of a next-generation language, called Extensible Markup Language or XML, on business organizations. Communication technology is one of the most important technologies for the highly competitive business world of today. Hence, some experts predict XML will be the most important technology. While XML technology is relatively new and in the early stage of its diffusion into the marketplace, it is important to understand its potential impact on the marketplace.; This research is exploratory in researching the impact of XML technology on business. It applies recognized innovation diffusion and adoption theories in the research model. XML is becoming the standard language used by the Internet. It is being adopted for numerous applications, by a wide variety of profit and non-profit organizations. Furthermore, each implementation of XML technology is unique in its purpose, capability, and architecture. This widespread use and complexity make it an appropriate research project for the application of a case research methodology.; This research addresses three primary questions: (1) Can XML technology improve the efficiency in delivering existing services? (2) Can XML technology improve the quality of services? (3) Will XML technology stimulate the development of new services? To address these questions, eight cases were selected for research, which varied widely in their initiating organizations and application types.; The research reveals that XML technology is still in its early stage of adoption, which makes it difficult to fully predict its future success or failure. However, this research does reveal several findings. First, the application types using XML technology will have a significant impact on a wide variety of future business activities. Second, XML technology is delivering most of the benefits that W3C, the developer of XML technology, has promised. However, not all applications produce the same kind of benefits or have the same potential impact on business activities. Third, technological service providers play a significant role in XML technology adoptions. This is especially true when XML applications are complex. Fourth, the adoption of XML technology by business partners is critical in gaining the most significant benefits such as business process automation. However, less sophisticated applications, such as the distribution of XML document, which is similar to the traditional publishing for information, need little outside support.; These findings imply that initiatives leading to the widespread diffusion of XML technology must be carefully evaluated to ensure that they will deliver the targeted benefits, have adequate resources to complete design and development requirements, and have the technical capabilities to support adopters. |
