Mobile and wireless technology introduction: a study in a power utility organization

Abstract

This work discusses many aspects regarding the adoption of a new communication technology at an energy distribution company, focusing on understanding both human and social implications of such adoption. The case study describes the deployment of a wireless and mobile communication technology based on smartphones that is used to support field connectivity and communication of the workforce. In order to analyze human and social aspects of the change to the mobile solution, the hospitality metaphor is applied and positive and negative issues are discussed. The results indicate that the hospitality metaphor, which takes into account the perceptions and specificities of the human being, is in fact useful to describe the adoption processes of a new technology.