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Structuring the Market for E-Collaboration Systems: A Study Based on Cluster Analysis

Structuring the Market for E-Collaboration Systems: A Study Based on Cluster Analysis
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Author(s): Kai Riemer (European Research Center for Information Systems (ERCIS), Germany)
Copyright: 2007
Pages: 6
Source title: Managing Worldwide Operations and Communications with Information Technology
Source Editor(s): Mehdi Khosrow-Pour, D.B.A. (Information Resources Management Association, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-59904-929-8.ch239
ISBN13: 9781599049298
EISBN13: 9781466665378

Abstract

Software systems for supporting communication, coordination and cooperation processes in groups have become the backbone infrastructure to support knowledge work in a globalized economy where virtual work has become the prevalent modus operandi. Fuelled by recent technology trends numerous new E-Collaboration systems have appeared in the marketplace. In this paper a study that aims to shed light on the market for E-Collaboration systems is presented. A sample of 66 E-Collaboration systems was characterized in terms of their feature sets using a classification approach. Cluster analysis was used to uncover patterns in the resulting data. Four systems classes and a range of sub classes were identified each of which is briefly described. The results, being a reflection of the existing market complexity, should be equally helpful for researchers who deal with E-Collaboration systems as their objects of interest, as well as for business executives, who need to gather information to support buying decisions.

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