Diffusion of Innovations Theory and its application to the study of the adoption of electronic resources by Extremadura University researchers

Abstract

Diffusion of Innovations Theory is used as an appropriate conceptual frame from a sociological perspective to investigate the user like fundamental element in information services planning. From the application of this theoretical model, Extremadura University’s researchers are divided into the five categories proposed by Rogers. Moreover, some positive and negative factors are analysed to determine how they affect the adoption of electronic resources (innovation), studying the perception of the users within their institutional frame. According to our present results, it is detected how important the information professionals are, because they act as a change agent. In addition, we claim the necessity of an users formation plan like strategy of diffusion of these resources in the organization framework, adapted to specific necessities of the different categories and factors that influence their adoption, related to the knowledge, skills, or communication channels.