Volume 4

V4 N1 Pages 30-38

April 2011


Factors Influencing People to Use Linux


Scott Hunsinger
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC 28608, USA

Susanna Fransen
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC 28608, USA

Abstract: Linux is a free open source operating system that serves as a viable alternative to using Windows and other operating systems. Significant research has been conducted concerning Linux and why it is a reliable operating system. Yet, the question remains: Why aren’t more people using Linux operating systems? To explore this question we researched two theories: the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Technology Acceptance Model, to better understand what factors influence a person’s usage of Linux on a desktop or laptop computer. We used these theories to guide our research and limited the scope of our study to college students since they are readily available and will be entering the workforce within the next several years. To determine what factors influence people whether to use a Linux operating system, we conducted interviews (n=15) and a survey (n=168). We discovered that two constructs from the Theory of Planned Behavior (Attitude and Perceived Behavioral Control) and two constructs from the Technology Acceptance Model (Perceived Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness) are significantly correlated with a person’s intention to use a Linux operating system, while the Subjective Norm construct holds less importance.

Keywords: Linux, Windows, Theory of Planned Behavior, Technology Acceptance Model

Download this article: JISAR - V4 N1 Page 30.pdf


Recommended Citation: Hunsinger, S., Fransen, S. (2011). Factors Influencing People to Use Linux. Journal of Information Systems Applied Research, 4(1) pp 30-38. http://jisar.org/2011-4/ ISSN: 1946-1836. (A preliminary version appears in The Proceedings of CONISAR 2010)