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Based on theories from the technological innovation literature, this study develops an integrated model of information systems (IS) adoption in small businesses. The model specifies contextual variables such as decision-maker characteristics, IS characteristics, organizational characteristics, and environmental characteristics as primary determinants of IS adoption in small businesses. A questionnaire survey was conducted in 166 small businesses. Data analysis shows that small businesses with certain CEO characteristics (innovativeness and level of IS knowledge), innovation characteristics (relative advantage, compatibility, and complexity of IS), and organizational characteristics (business size and level of employees' IS knowledge) are more likely to adopt IS. While CEO and innovation characteristics are important determinants of the decision to adopt, they do not affect the extent of IS adoption. The extent of IS adoption is mainly determined by organizational characteristics. Finally, the environmental characteristic of competition has no direct effect on small business adoption of IS.

Understanding the link between communication and change In this webpaper Chrys Horn observes that communication goals are usually seen as being the achievement of some change – getting people to change something that they do or don’t do, like recycle, exercise more, lose weight, accept possum control, provide better services, consult more effectively etc. However, as she points out, if we are to learn to communicate more effectively, however, it is critical to find frameworks to help us think through communication planning. This paper provides one such framework, another provides tips for effective communication. In other papers Chrys looks at lessons learnt through the Landcare Research collaborative learning group in communicating science and evaluating science communication activities. More writing from Chrys can be found on her blog: Learning, science and environment.