Analysing the impacts of ICT on knowledge work productivity

Abstract

Purpose

The potential of information and communication technology (ICT) in improving knowledge work productivity is well‐documented in the existing literature. However, prior research fails to provide means for analyzing whether the potential can be realized in a specific organizational context. Thus, this paper aims to focus on the context‐specific analysis of the impacts of ICT services on knowledge work.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a literature review and a case study conducted in a medium‐sized European teleoperator company. The case study examines the measurement process for capturing the knowledge work productivity impacts produced by a new ICT service used by the company.

Findings

ICT can be used to eliminate non‐value‐adding tasks or to make them more efficient. ICT can also improve employee welfare, for example, through transforming the content of work by deleting unimportant activities. The empirical study showed that, contrary to the view presented in the prior literature, it does not seem that difficult to measure the impacts of ICT on knowledge work productivity. A key point in the measurement is identification of case‐specific impact factors by examining the characteristics of the ICT service and the organisational setting.

Practical implications

The results of the paper will be useful for managers studying the impacts of ICT investments in their organizations.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the prior literature on ICT and knowledge work productivity by explaining how the impacts of ICT can be analysed in a given empirical context. The specific novelty value of the study lies in the new knowledge concerning the identification of the impact factors.

Citation

Palvalin, M., Lönnqvist, A. and Vuolle, M. (2013), "Analysing the impacts of ICT on knowledge work productivity", Journal of Knowledge Management, Vol. 17 No. 4, pp. 545-557. https://doi.org/10.1108/JKM-03-2013-0113