Retailing computer technology to the uninitiated consumer: the case of computer applications transfer in local governments

Abstract

The “faith in technology” attitude prevalent in the U.S. extends to local governments, where large programs have been instituted to facilitate technology transfer. This paper examines the technology transfer of computer applications among and into local governments by comparing the benefit claims of transfer software with new data on local government transfer activity and planning, and the harsher realities of actual transfer experience as expressed in seven key points most often found in literature about information systems in local government. This paper does not support or discredit claims about transfer in local government. Rather, it attempts to fill part of the void in rational discussion about transfer by offering broad perspectives on why more transfers do not occur and, in some instances, why they shouldn't occur.