Cutting corners as a coping strategy in information technology use: Unraveling the mind's dilemma

Abstract

Modern information technology (IT) features aimed at helping users can also increase the complexity of IT. The impact of this emergent complexity on employee behavior remains unknown. Using the transactional theory of stress, we propose that people cope with IT complexity by cutting corners. An experimental study involving 130 data analysts revealed (1) data analytics tools’ complexity increases distress, (2) distress fully mediates the impact of data analytics tools’ complexity on cognitive dissonance, (3) cutting corners negatively moderates distress–cognitive dissonance relationship, and (4) cognitive dissonance reduces perceived decision quality. These findings illuminate how employees navigate challenges using modern, complex IT.