An exploratory study of open source software adoption for academic libraries in Oman

Abstract

Open source software has emerged as a potential alternative to commercial and closed-source products in many domains. Additionally, OSS has gained considerable attention recently in the area of academic libraries. This study aimed to identify the perception of library professionals towards open source software (OSS) adoption and to determine the factors behind OSS adoption in libraries. Based on the final results a comprehensive model was developed to help libraries in Oman to adopt OSS successfully. Mixed methods (qualitative and quantitative approaches) were selected for this study. The Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOI) and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) were chosen as a theoretical framework to build a conceptual model. The sampling frame for this study consisted of all academic libraries in Oman. For survey sample, the study used stratified random sampling. The sample of professional librarians was 152. Four interviews were conducted face-to-face with library IT managers. Based on the findings of this research, OSS has been identified as a viable alternative to proprietary software for academic libraries in Oman. Significant factors that emerged as enablers of the adoption of OSS included cost saving, budgetary constraints, satisfying library needs, availability of support, scalability, customisation, availability of source code, economic benefits. As well, complexity regarding training requirements and cost incurred through maintenance, observability concerning software maturity and successful projects, libraries slack relating to human resources, communication channels, adopter characteristics regarding staff’s attitude towards nature of the software and maturity of OSS products, top management support, and user appreciation. Meanwhile, lack of knowledge about the benefits of OSS, compatibility regarding the lack of availability of local technical support and lack of integration with the existing technical environment, perceived negatively in ease of use concerning the absence of local technical assistance. Including lack of formalization regarding ICT policy and library rules, adopted characteristics concerning staff’s attitude towards incompatibility of OSS products with existing technology. Also, lack of technical knowledge, migration risks, the absence of the future plan, lack of ITA support and lack of awareness about ITA master plan towards OSS were revealed as hindrances to the adoption of OSS. This research has contributed to the body of knowledge in the field of existing adoption theory through adding new factors that influence technology adoption. Factors such as technical skills concerning the availability of local support, technical expertise, migration risk, top management support and ITA support are identified as new factors which influence OSS adoption in academic libraries in Oman. Finally, the study suggested steps for OSS adoption in Omani libraries. Also, a proposed procedure and timeline for implementation were discussed.