Non-investment in information systems: A cognitive dissonance case study

Abstract

Owing to the complex nature information system investment decisions, the present study presents an interpretative framework for addressing the postponement of decisions to invest in this kind of technology. An instrumental case study is used to conduct an analysis based on the proposed framework, which is based on Cognitive Dissonance (CD) Theory. The illusion of explanatory depth and cognitive miser theories are also used to interpret the analysis. The case in question is a legal firm in São Paulo, Brazil, that operates in three areas of law. The contribution of the study is a new form of interpreting the postponement of information system investment decisions. The non-investment behavior of the managers concerning IS can change if they are given information that strengthens their cognitive dissonance, resulting in their becoming sufficiently uncomfortable to change this behavior.