Taking a Step Back Before Moving Forward: Adopting a Collaboration Platform

Description

Taking a Step Back Before Moving Forward: Adopting a Collaboration Platform: Abstract

According to recent studies by Gartner Group, best practices for a successful adoption of collaboration technologies are still unknown. This case describes the difficult adoption of a collaboration technology within an organization, and the approach used to analyze and diagnose the weaknesses of the adoption process so as to correct the situation. In the case, a step back is taken so as to better understand the organizational, social, cultural and technological context of a collaboration technology and to make a more informed decision about the management practices to be implemented to support its adoption.

Teaching objectives

This case responds to a need in the training of M. Sc. students. It aims for a better understanding of the peculiarities of business processes that support collaborative work as well as the complexity of adopting collaboration technologies. Specifically, the case will allow students to make a critical analysis of the analytical and diagnostic approach used and a comparative analysis with other approaches covered in class.

Main themes covered

• Adoption of an IT collaboration technology
• Analysis and diagnosis process
• Readiness for organizational change
• Knowledge management

Concepts and theories related to the case

The case deals with IT adoption and change management. The particular characteristics of collaboration technologies require a holistic analysis and diagnosis of processes in order to determine the management practices that are best suited to the technology, the type of shared knowledge and users’ work habits.

Additional information

Also available in French.

Teaching notes are available for teachers only. Contact the HEC Montréal Case Centre for more information.