Technical proficiency for IS Success

The Information System (IS) Success model implies that IS users possess baseline technical abilities; an assumption that, if not met, may adversely affect the constructs and relationships proposed by the model. We propose that the level of users' technical proficiency should be accounted for when considering deployment of information systems. However, considering the extant literature, it is unclear precisely what constitutes technical proficiency in today's business environment. Using a Delphi method approach, we develop the technical proficiency construct to uncover what competencies indicate technically proficiency, what business needs such proficiencies address, and how technical proficiency can be assessed. We uncover 16 qualities of technical proficiency, 14 common technology business needs, and 13 methods to assess proficiency. This research lays the groundwork for future research regarding IS Success and technical proficiency. Practitioners can use these findings to help better prepare their workforce for IS deployment.