Sense-loafing in Use of Information Technology in Public Sector Organizations

This paper aims to analyze the hidden deviations occurring during formation of information systems which in turn deprives the organizations from real benefit of the technological transformation.

Design/ Methodology/ Approach:

 In-depth individual interviews were conducted with employees, managers and information system developers of public organizations. Data collection and analysis were carried out simultaneously and complied with Straussian grounded theory techniques.

Two core categories representing attitudes of the players -regarding the processes in which the final system is formed- which named as sense-loafing, were, deviation and confrontation. Causal conditions,  context,  strategies, consequences with subcategories delineated fully.

Limitations & Consequences:

 Interviewees in sense-loafing situation, neglect alternative framing of issues. Hence providing examples needed to help interviewees make sense and tell what they have experienced.

Practical Consequences:

 Findings implicate the complexity of technology in organizations; It warns that policy makers, seeking technology-based transformation, should promote organizational innovators.

Innovation or Value of the Article:

 The framing in which this paper deals with technology and public organizations is far beyond the traditional framing like technology maturity proposes.