The diffusion of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in journalism

 The diffusion of GIS in journalism
by Wasike, Ben S., Ph.D., Louisiana State University and Agricultural &
Mechanical College, 2005, 89 pages; AAT 3199769
Abstract (Summary)

The purposes of this study were to determine the likelihood of reporters to
adopt Geographical Information Systems and to predict the future of the
diffusion of GIS in the journalism industry using the diffusion of
innovations theory. The study used two data collection methods: in-depth
interviews and a Web survey. The indepth-interviews revealed factors that
will influence the diffusion of GIS, including the availability of map data,
competition between media agencies, the ease of getting management to buy
GIS once its functionality has been demonstrated to them, and the general
use of secondary GIS products. The Web survey showed that 63% of the
reporters were aware of GIS but only 11% of the reporters surveyed currently
use GIS. OLS regression showed that men were more likely to adopt GIS than
women, while younger people were more likely to adopt GIS than their older
counterparts. The results also showed that reporters who used other
technologies in their work were more likely to adopt GIS on a trial basis.

Indexing (document details)
Advisor: Coleman, Renita
School: Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
School Location: United States -- Louisiana
Keyword(s): Maps, Diffusion, Journalism, Geographical information systems
Source: DAI-A 66/11, May 2006
Source type: Dissertation
Subjects: Mass media
Publication Number: AAT 3199769
ISBN: 9780542440816
Document URL:
http://proquest.umi.com/pqdlink?did=1031054471&Fmt=7&clientId=79356&RQT=309&VName=PQD
ProQuest document ID: 1031054471
http://proquest.umi.com/pqdlink?Ver=1&Exp=04-03-2014&FMT=7&DID=1031054471&RQT=309&attempt=1&cfc=1