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Chapter 4. Pilot Analysis, Findings and Discussion Adoption, Diffusion and Use of E-government
Hassan Al-Zaabi Services in Abu Dhabi Police Force
4.5.2.2 Compatibility
Compatibility is “the degree to which an innovation is perceived as being consistent with the existing
values, past experiences and need of potential adopters” (Rogers, 2003: 15).
The researcher asked participants to describe their work routine. Following that another question was
asked to determine whether the e-services fitted in with their work lifestyles. Most staff members work
routines depend on computers, whether it was for implementing software, updating data, check
different e-services (e.g. IT support e-service), or network applications.
This led the researcher to conclude that all staff in this department, regardless of their demographic
details, dealt with different issues related to computer usage on a daily basis. This showed that using e-
services is compatible with their work environment and existing work practices. A male participant,
41-50 years old, with a bachelor degree and considered as a high level staff stated that “we sit in front
of computers from 7:30am to 2:30pm, 5 days a week; we implement e-services, therefore, to test the
system and fix faults we have to use and try all kind of e-services even if we don‟t need them”.
Another female participant, 20-30 years old, with high diploma and categorised as a middle level staff
claimed how her prior experience with computers and internet assisted her in using new e-services, “I
am used to different online services here at Abu Dhabi Police so I don‟t have any reason not to try new
e-services when they are introduced for the staff”.
4.5.2.3 Image
Image is “the degree to which use of an innovation is perceived to enhance one‟s image or status in
one‟s social system” (Moore and Benbasat, 1991: 195). In this case study, two similar categories
emerged; importance and reliability of e-services. It was observed that most staff members in the IT
department were not concerned with others using or not using the e-services. They looked at e-services
as an important tool that can enhance and accomplish different tasks; “…I use these e-services
regularly, not to show others that I am smart or an expert in computers. I use it because I think they
are important” (Male, 31-40, postgraduate, high level staff).
University of Hertfordshire 2013 Page 112