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Beyond the productivity paradox

Published:01 August 1998Publication History
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References

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  1. Beyond the productivity paradox

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        Brad D. Reid

        Brynjolfsson and Hitt discuss research into the question of “whether computers contribute to productivity growth.” They review several studies and conclude that “the greatest benefits of computers appear to be realized when computer investment is coupled with other complementary investments; new strategies, new business processes and new organizations all appear to be important in realizing the maximum benefit” from information technology (IT). The authors discuss in depth the difficulty of measuring the value that IT brings to a firm. They interpret the research as indicating that “about half of IT value is due to unique characteristics of firms, while the remaining part is showed generally by all firms.” They wisely caution that “firms can actually be worse off if they invest in computers without the new work systems.” The paper is well written and includes figures and a list of references. It is important reading for managers.

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          cover image Communications of the ACM
          Communications of the ACM  Volume 41, Issue 8
          Aug. 1998
          105 pages
          ISSN:0001-0782
          EISSN:1557-7317
          DOI:10.1145/280324
          Issue’s Table of Contents

          Copyright © 1998 ACM

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          Publication History

          • Published: 1 August 1998

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