The activity theory (AT) has been used comprehensively in academic studies in the past with varying results depending on many factors. In this paper, AT is considered a lens for addressing electronic collaboration (e-collaboration) for academic and research institutions (ARIs). The focus of this paper is on the advancement of theory for future improved use towards creating a sound and improved guide for future research.The path towards innovation is paved and founded through well-defined theoretical guidelines followed by researchers, participants, and organizations. Underpinning theories continue to be used in academia to provide a solid basis and to afford a good foundation for research work. This enables research work to be reliable for the targeted output, participants, and communities. At times these theories present improvement opportunities for future practical applications and implementations. The Living Labs (LLs) present platforms for knowledge development; thereby their relationship with ARIs is inevitable. Together they facilitate improvement and innovation for ARIs.The literature context is the foundation of this paper together with the empirical data collected through multiple sources such as questionnaires, interviews, and the researchers' reflective journal (RRJ). The study used snowball and purposive sampling. The study primarily used the Grounded Theory Method (GTM) approach with the subsequent data collection influencing the collection process. This main objective of this paper is to propose an activity system model for ARIs.The proposed activity system model presented positive results when applied as the main study progressed. Further advancements can still be applied to the model thereby making it adaptable different environments.

Background: Knowledge development and innovation are at the heart of the progress of academic and research institutions (ARIs) through individual and coordinated research projects. Collaboration initiatives remain a challenge for many researchers for a myriad of reasons which are further intensified by the many technology options that are available both freely and at varying prices. Although multiple theories were considered, the focus on electronic communication supported by the interest in how innovation is diffused and the richness of media motivated the focus on diffusion of innovations (DOI) and media richness theory (MRT). Objectives:The objective was to develop a multi-dimensional matrix of e-collaboration factors for research institutions. This study investigated collaboration by ARIs while focusing on the supporting and enabling technologies. Method:The grounded theory method (GTM) was adopted. E-collaboration literature was reviewed followed by data collection using observations, interviews and a blog. DOI and MRT were considered as theories that assist in the implementation of collaboration. A blog was developed as an e-collaboration platform to examine the emergent ideas and to collect data. Data was analysed through the coding method which led to the development of the multi-dimensional e-collaboration factors matrix. Results:The findings reveal that e-collaboration has multiple factors that must be considered. Collaboration by participants was improved through knowledge development and innovation. Conclusion:The multi-dimensional matrix of e-collaboration factors presented collaborators with a checklist that will enhance and improve their work. ARIs continue to collaborate at multiple levels depending on their needs and objectives.

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