Measuring and theorizing about net-enabled organizations

Information Systems researchers have recently directed their attention to Net-Enabled Organizations (NEOs) (See 2002 volumes 2 & 3 of Information Systems Research). NEOs can execute transactions, rapidly exchange information, and innovate through new business processes and at an unprecedented pace. Deeper theorizing and measuring is needed to fully understand the deeper means through which NEOs operate for business advantage. This year marks the first time for the Measuring and Theorizing about Net-Enabled Organizations Minitrack. The three papers presented here demonstrate the wide domain for this emerging area of IS research. Williams digs deeper into Wheeler’ Choosing Capability in NEBIC Theory. His paper, “Identifying the Organizational Routines in NEBIC Theory’s Choosing Capability” draws on other theories of organizational routines and innovation to focus on four explicit routines in how organizations choose emerging or enabling technologies. Benslimane, Plaisent, and Bernard’s paper, “Applying the Task-Technology Fit Model to WWWbased Procurement: Conceptualization and Measurement,” assesses the fit of we-based technologies from the perspective of a corporate buyer. Lubbes draws on research in South Africa as he addresses the “Alignment of Internet Commercial Operations with Organisational Operations.” His work focuses on how alignment is essential for value creation via new digital networks. In sum, these three papers represent an important first steps in better theorizing and measuring of NetEnabled Organizations. Future mini-track sessions and journal articles provide opportunities for further developing both theory and measures.