Factors influencing managers' use of mobile tablets: an exploratory study

In recent years mobile tablets are being used by many managers. Yet hitherto there is a lack of research on managerial use of the new mobile technology. Hence, this study aims to explore the factors that influence the use of mobile tablets by managers and how mobile tablets impact the use of other digital devices. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a panel of mid- to high-level managers who had incorporated mobile tablets into their work routine. The findings reveal that mobile tablets are suitable for managerial tasks due to nine main factors: non-routineness, collaborative nature, time-critical, information-centric, mobility, user friendliness of the interface, reliability, connectivity, and autonomy. Also, the use of mobile tablets has significant impact on the use of other digital devices as well as traditional manual process of using pens and papers. This study fills in the research gap and provides a foundation to help managers establish a business case for or against mobile tablet use.