University of Tasmania, Australia

Mr Justin Thurley

Graduate Research Candidate

Contact Details

Project title: Recalibrating our understanding of innovation theory and models of ICT change

Abstract
The development, acquisition and use of information and communications technology (ICT) now pervade most sectors of the economy. ICTs play a significant role in many government and business operations and in recent times they have become increasingly important to the individual and many aspects of social life.

An interesting characteristic of ICTs is their propensity to be used for a variety of purposes and that they are routinely improved and developed by those who adopt them.

The purpose of my study is to investigate user ICT innovation practice with a view to improving our understanding of ICT innovation in the context of what academics and practitioners understand about innovation and models of ICT mediated change.

To assist with my research Im studying organisations with examples of ICT development which have produced or facilitated new products and/or services, improvements to business processes or new organisational capabilities.

It is proposed that there may be a number of benefits obtained from conducting this research, these might include but not be limited to:

• Developing a more precise or relevant definition for ICT innovation.
• Identifying common behaviours (patterns) associated with the use or development of ICTs in innovation activity.
• Understanding the reasons why businesses choose to utilise ICT in innovation activities.
• Identifying links between the ICT producing sector and other sectors of the economy.
• Greater insight into the impact ICT innovation has on the economy.

Keywords
Innovation, information and communications technology, software as capital, economics of information technology.