Word processing technology and perceptions of control among clerical workers

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Abstract
A set of four hypotheses about the relationships between word processor attributes and employee perceptions of control and satisfaction are developed and then tested in a sample of 109 clerical workers. Findings from this perliminary study support the first hypothesis, that electronic word processors, in contrast to typewriters, increase an employee's ability to control his or her work. The second hypothesis, that users of both word processors and typewriters will report the highest levels of control, was not supported. The second part of the study concerns attributes of electronic word processors. The third hypothesis was that employees who use computers that are more dependable, easier to use, and have higher quality screens will report higher levels of control. This hypothesis was only partially supported. Support was found for the fourth hypothesis, that the above trio of computer attributes Would be positively related to employee satisfaction with the word processor. Practical implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.

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