The Market for E-Collaboration Systems - Identification of System Classes Using Cluster Analysis
Kai Riemer · Journal of the Association for Information Systems · 2007
E-Collaboration systems, that is software for supporting communication, coordination and cooperation processes in groups, have become the backbone infrastructure to support E-Work in a globalised world where virtual work in and across organisations has become a prevalent modus operandi.Fuelled by recent technology trends numerous new E-Collaboration systems appeared in the marketplace.Today, the market offers an abundance of systems that often support a wide range of features.In this paper a study is presented that aims to shed light on the market for E-Collaboration systems by structuring the range of available systems into meaningful classes.To this end, a sample of 94 E-Collaboration systems is characterised using a classification approach.Application of a cluster analysis led to the identification of five system classes and a range of sub classes.The resulting system classes are described and trends of integration and convergence, which characterise the market, are discussed.The results, being a reflection of the existing market complexity, should be equally helpful for researchers who deal with E-Collaboration systems as their objects of interest, as well as for business executives, who need a market overview to support buying decisions.