Mediating Role of Technical Uncertainty on Information Systems Development Project Outcomes

Abstract

The application of innovative technologies introduces technical uncertainty affecting project outcomes. Guided by control theory, this study examines the mediating role of technical uncertainty between the four project control modes and their influence on two project outcomes. We find that outcome and clan control modes provide both internal efficiency as well as adequate psychological outcomes in uncertain innovative development environments while behavior and self-control have no effect on the project outcomes. Therefore, appropriate control modes such as outcome and clan control modes should be given priority in managing technically uncertain projects.

Keywords

• Control modes
• Technical uncertainty
• Internal efficiency
• Psychological outcomes
• Information systems development project