The role of the idea champion in innovation: The case of the Internet in the mid-1990s

Idea champions, sometimes called change agents, serve as advocates for new technologies or procedures. Although the effects of such individuals may be powerful, how they have their effects has been studied relatively little. A longitudinal study was conducted to determine factors that might affect use of the Internet. A model focused on the presence of an idea champion was developed and tested. This model stressed the criticality of a supportive climate and some level of dissatisfaction with the way work was being accomplished. The model allowed the examination of direct and indirect effects of the presence of a champion on the use of the Internet. Analyses supported our theoretical model. Implications and potential research directions are discussed.