| A number of recent studies indicate that information technology can exert a major impact on managerial roles such as decision-making. However, no study has been conducted regarding the relationship between the usage of the Internet, a key component of information technology, and decision-making. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between Internet usage and decision-making effectiveness for information technology (IT) managers in China.; Responses from 123 managers working for the top eight multinational IT companies in China were gathered and analyzed. Personal interviews with the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of these companies provide valuable insight on this issue. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, multiple regression, correlation, factor analysis, and Cronbach techniques are used to analyze the relationship between Internet usage and the effectiveness of decision-making for the respondents. Qualitative techniques are used, also.; Based on Teng's and Calhoun's (1996) research model on organizational computing, Wood's (2000) study on information technology for public managers, and Cheung, Chang and Lai's (2000) study of Internet usage factors, it is hypothesized that user skills, intensity, and facilitating conditions for the use of the Internet will facilitate effective decision-making. This will lead to an overall improvement in the managerial decision-making process, including better intelligence, more alternatives, more participation, and improved speed.; As a result of the research, it is found that the Internet is an effective tool in facilitating managerial decision-making for IT managers in China. The rate of Internet adoption is accelerating in China in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue as China enters the WTO and becomes integrated into the world economy. The ability to fully utilize the Internet's capability will increase the effectiveness of managerial decision-making, a key factor for enterprise competitiveness.; The value of the Internet is well recognized by the IT managers. As the Internet undergoes continuous enhancements with the addition of new functions, features and applications, it is expected that its use will have an even more significant impact on decision-making and managerial roles. Future researchers should monitor the development of the Internet in China closely, and watch its impact on managerial roles, organizational processes and effectiveness for enterprises. |
