An exploratory field study of differences in information technology use between more- and less-innovative middle managers

Based on data collected in 1988, this research explored the differences between more- and less-innovative middle managers in their use of information and information technology (IT). It involved a field study of ninety-nine middle managers in a division of a major defense contracting manufacturing organization in the St. Paul/Minneapolis area of the USA. Results suggest that the more-innovative middle managers are inclined to use data drawn from personal experience and insights rather than historical data and found IT generally important. Apparently, innovative middle managers use less complex programs, and when in-depth analyses are needed, their execution was generally delegated. The prime interpretation of the results is that innovative middle managers use IT as a vehicle for networking. They distribute more of their IT output to others. Even though they do not use IT more, they frequently contact local and expert support functions. These findings indicate that future research efforts should address the issues of how managerial business and IT innovativeness are related to IT use and networking behaviors.