The Internet's role in diffusing innovation knowledge among software developers

This qualitative study investigates why and how software developers use media such as the Internet as initial sources of new software knowledge. Findings from the interviews suggest the Internet is primarily used for technology information-seeking, and that a mix of communications vehicles play a role in diffusing new software information among developers.; Insights gained from this study include the dominant role of search engine technology in content selection, the integrated nature of communication use such as interpersonal communication through email across the Internet, and the importance of content quality and its rapid availability relative to the limited impact of on-line formatting and design.