User Acceptance of CASE Tools in Systems Analysis and Design: An Empirical Study

Abstract

Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) consists of a set of tools that support automation of various software engineering processes. CASE is extensively used by software developers in industry in systems analysis and design due to gains it provides in productivity and improved documentation quality. Studies indicate that with the proliferation of information technology in today's organizations and the capital investments required that users must use and accept technology to improve productivity. In this study we examine the determinants of CASE tool acceptance and use. We simulate a systems development environment in a classroom and examine the determinants of CASE tool use. We use the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to identify and test core determinants of user intention to use these tools. Data was collected and analyzed from 85 students regarding their use of CASE technology in the classroom. Results show partial support for the UTAUT in that participants' performance expectancy and social influence affect behavioral intention to use CASE tools while effort expectancy did not. Results also show that facilitating conditions, computer anxiety and attitude toward using technology have an effect on intention to use CASE tools. Considering the substantial investment required to acquire CASE tools, we believe our findings on the determinates of CASE tool acceptance are important both to industry in the use of CASE and to universities in teaching with CASE.

Keywords: Computer Aided Software Engineering, CASE Tools, UTAUT model, technology acceptance