The perceived utility of information presented via electronic decision aids: A consumer perspective

Recent advancements in electronic technology have made possible a viable alternative information delivery system in the form of Electronic Decision Aids (EDA). However, consumers will only benefit from such technological innovations if they are perceived to be useful in facilitating the decision mak...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inJournal of consumer policy Vol. 19; no. 2; pp. 137 - 166
Main Authors Hill, Donna J., King, Maryon F., Cohen, Eli
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Dordrecht Springer Nature B.V 01.06.1996
Subjects
Consumer behavior
Consumer goods
Decision making
Decision support systems
Product acceptance
Studies
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Summary:Recent advancements in electronic technology have made possible a viable alternative information delivery system in the form of Electronic Decision Aids (EDA). However, consumers will only benefit from such technological innovations if they are perceived to be useful in facilitating the decision making process. The effects of type of EDA format (autonomous versus dominant) and provision of educational information on the perceived utility of information presented via an electronic decision aid are investigated. In addition, the relationship between these 2 dimensions and specific consumer characteristics, including product familiarity, computer familiarity, and locus of control, as well as product type (search versus experience goods) are systematically identified and evaluated. Results suggest that selection of an appropriate format depends upon the nature of the product being selected, while inclusion of educational information enhances perceived utility of the information in selecting both types of products.
ISSN:0168-7034
1573-0700
DOI:10.1007/BF00412471