An Empirical Examination of Factors Affecting Group Effectiveness in Information Systems Projects

Abstract

Although group project concepts and skills have become a major component in most information systems (IS) academic programs, very little research has attempted to examine factors that may improve or undermine effectiveness of IS group projects. Accordingly, based on relevant literatures, this study develops and empirically tests a model of factors affecting IS group project effectiveness. The research model posits that group cohesion and group efficacy will have positive effects on group effectiveness (project success and expected impact), whereas perceived loafing is expected to have a negative effect on IS group effectiveness. Data collected from 104 students working in 29 groups to complete semester-long projects in two IS courses revealed that group efficacy had positive impact on group effectiveness and perceived loafing demonstrated a partial effect. Contrary to expectations, the impact of group cohesion was nonsignificant. These results could be useful in evaluating groups' potential for success and creating conditions conducive to enhancing effectiveness and success of IS student group projects.

The Influence of Technology, Environment and User Acceptance on the Effectiveness of Information System Project Selection Using SEM

“…The selection of the project is said to be effective if the project is successful (Fedor et al, 2003;Hasan & Ali, 2007). The dimensions of successful projects involves several items; rules to be followed during the project, desire towards project fulfillment, decision that satisfies the project, well-performance, and outcomes that exceed expectations (Fedor et al, 2003).…”

“…A collection of the results of a successful project has widespread benefit. Based on Cohen and Bailey (1997), the effectiveness of merit, quantity, quality, and productivity may be assessed while Hasan (2007) says that the effectiveness of the selection of the projects is revealed through quality results, and satisfactory results. In an organization there are 5 effective gauges/measurements of successful projects; if the project is within budget, on schedule execution, characterized by innovation, project quality and efficiency (Cohen & Bailey, 1997).…”

“…In his research using technology SMART (Simple MultiAttribute Rating Technique), he revealed that the selection of projects will be easier with technology and it also leads to satisfying decisions. Furthermore, Hasan & Ali (2007) examines a company's competitive advantage in light of project information system selection. The examination of the financial measures for several years and the results revealed that technology affects information system project selection.…”

“…Moreover, user acceptance has several items adopted from (Davis, 1989), and perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use are used to gauge user acceptance. The effectiveness of the information systems project selection consists of several items, which are adopted from (Ghasemzadeh & Archer, 2000;Hasan & Ali, 2007;Wang, Xu & Li, 2009).…”

Highs and Lows of Implementing a Management Strategy Eliminating ‘Free Passengers’ in Group Projects

“…Unfortunately, it is also known that group projects can lead to a plethora of problems (Hansen & Hansen, 2007). T he " free passenger" syndrome is recognised as a major problem; with some students putting in little effort, causing stress to other team members yet, despite doing little or no work, receiving the same mark as other team members (Ford & Morice, 2003;Hasan & Ali, 2007). Academics might claim they are simulating a "real world" environment, but as one student noted in a survey by Ford & Morice, " they try to be like the real world but they're really not.…”