Integration of information and communication technology: Influence of the cultural environment

Abstract

Purpose

Although the deployment of information and communication technology (ICT) in the construction industry is widespread recent research indicates that the surrounding contextual issues hinder its successful application in many project settings. This paper aims to develop a framework for the analysis of organisational culture in respect of ICT implementation across an organisation in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

An re‐analysis of critical success factors (CSF) for ICT integration, identified through data from a Delphi study of industry experts and a questionnaire survey of ICT users, using Martin's three‐perspective framework applying both the functional and non‐functional approaches to cultural analysis was conducted.

Findings

The research revealed the theoretical dimensions and properties of organisational culture that influence CSFs for ICT integration in construction projects teams. This paper concludes by highlighting the influence of the organisation's culture, manifested though the nature and extent of shared understanding, on the likely success of ICT implementation.

Originality/value

The deployment of ICT without appropriate consideration of contextual issues, in particular, organisational culture, will be likely to generate disappointing results. The framework presented in this paper provides a rigorous foundation for consideration of such issues.

Citation

Gajendran, T. and Brewer, G. (2007), "Integration of information and communication technology: Influence of the cultural environment", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 14 No. 6, pp. 532-549. https://doi.org/10.1108/09699980710829003