Adoption of Decision Support Systems (DSS) in a Developing Country

This research focuses on antecedents to adoption of DSSs in Chile, a rapidlydeveloping economic leader in South America. Interviews with senior-level and IT managers in Chilean firms revealed a positive business climate, advanced hardware/software infrastructure, and significant utilization of computing resources. The strategic use of DSSs was much more limited. A modified Unified Theory of and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model was developed to examine cultural aspects that explain DSS adoption in Chile. The model shows that DSSs are implemented as a result of immediate business requirements rather than their potential to yield future competitive advantage; senior management supports investment in DSSs when the IT manager can make a business case; and the mix of technical and business capabilities needed for development is not available in all companies. The primary implication is that developing countries should develop IT managers trained in business strategy as well as technical skills to increase DSS adoption and economic growth.