Influence of societal factors on the diffusion of electronic data interchange in the Netherlands

The work reported in this paper is part of a research stream to study the interaction between a nation's societal factors and the introduction of information technology. It examines the influence of four societal factors - culture, economy, infrastructures and government policy - on the diffusion of electronic data interchange in the Netherlands. This single-case study involved semi-structured interviews with participants and observers of the diffusion process in the Netherlands. Technology stimulation programs at the national and European Community levels combined with infrastructure developments have helped to shape the introduction and use of EDI in a fashion that is consistent with economic and cultural factors in the Netherlands. The results of this study provide insight into the nature of the linkage between societal influences and information technology diffusion. Further research is needed to examine these societal factors in other countries and to identify additional societal factors that influence the development and use of information technology.