Factors that Influence Information Technology Workers' Intention to Telework: A South African Perspective

Abstract

This study investigated the factors that influence South African IT workers' intention to telework. Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), an explanatory research approach was followed with the objective of determining the influence of the TPB elements namely attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control on IT workers' intention to adopt telework. The model was tested quantitatively by means of online survey, for which a total of 120 valid responses were received. The results showed that attitude and subjective norms did not significantly influence IT workers' intention to telework. Instead, perceived behavioral control of IT workers was found significant, which was determined by the availability and cost of the technology, the level of support from employers and the self-efficacy of IT workers. The cost of bandwidth was found a major inhibitors of telework amongst local IT workers. Therefore, addressing the technology and support challenges could improve the self-efficacy of workers with regards to working remotely. Employers should provide financial support to subsidize the high cost of bandwidth in South Africa. This study provides new insights regarding the status of IT workers' adoption of telework in South Africa, thereby contributing to policy and research practice.