Towards a systems-based framework for understanding the diffusion of technology: A case study of a modest technological innovation in the multi-agency context of policing

Barrett, Heather (2024). Towards a systems-based framework for understanding the diffusion of technology: A case study of a modest technological innovation in the multi-agency context of policing. PhD thesis The Open University.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21954/ou.ro.00017502

Abstract

Technological innovation in policing is being given greater emphasis. In public discourse about technology and policing, there is often a focus on large-scale projects that are known to fail, sometimes at significant cost. The implementation of smaller innovations are often overlooked. This thesis examines practice of innovation and adoption in the context of multi-agency working.

The literature review in this thesis reveals that little is known about contexts where decision making does not rest with the police and exposes potential limitations in the use of diffusion and adoption frameworks/models. The research question is: In the context of multi-agency diffusion and adoption of a technology to enhance policing, can systems thinking techniques enhance, or even replace, existing frameworks and models?

This empirical research study looks at the adoption of a relatively simple technology that scans identification documents. However, the decision to adopt and implement an ID scanner takes place within a complex setting. Tracking an adoption decision requires understanding of the various actors and their roles. The research includes 48 semi-structured interviews with police officers, premises owners and managers and other stakeholders involved in the decision to adopt an ID scanner. Their perceptions of the history leading to an adoption decision, their own role and that of other key actors is examined.

Initial analysis takes place using spray diagrams and further analysis is made through the lenses of existing diffusion and adoption frameworks/models. Subsequently systems thinking techniques are deployed and the additional insights they provide are highlighted. This research finds that systems thinking can extend understanding of multi-agency diffusion and adoption decisions when compared with solely utilising existing frameworks/models. Finally, the research proposes a systems-based framework for collaborative diffusion and adoption analysis.

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