Electronic information system implementation: An impact study of organizational communication concerning employee benefits

Development of the first electronic computer in the early 1940s created a tidal wave of immense change in how we exchange information in our society. In this context, I examined an electronic information system implementation, particularly for its impact on organizational communication concerning employee benefits. The system's existence results from the convergence of the complexity of benefits and programs, federally legislated employer-employee communication requirements, advancements in computers development, and increasing employee sophistication in computer usage.;A written survey was developed, tested, and administered to approximately 1500 employees of one facility of a major corporation.;Response to the system was quite favorable; almost ninety percent of the employees indicated a satisfactory or better response. When compared to a person or paper, the system was rated the most preferred means to obtain forms and instruction; however, the system ranked third as the most preferred method to receive information. Fifty-seven percent of the respondents indicated the system had contributed to improved communication in the organization, and sixty-four percent indicated an interest in additional electronic communication systems. Open-ended questions gave respondents an opportunity to provide specific feedback regarding the system, including likes and dislikes of the present system, suggestions for improvement of the existing system, and parameters for new systems. Findings verified employee satisfaction with the system and its overall effectiveness.;Employers may find that the use of an electronic employee benefits information system will help successfully manage many aspects of the complex benefits communication process. Utilization of information systems could disencumber benefits representatives from answering routine inquiries. Benefits representatives could then focus on the challenges of individual counselling and other employee services.