Abstract

Khalid Al-Mabrouk* and Jeffrey Soar

Transfer of information technology (IT) is an increasingly important component for techno-economic development in the developing countries. It can play a major role in the process of technological development. Yet there have been very little studies in IT transfer in developing countries, particularly in Arab countries. The success of the IT transfer process depends upon a number of issues that must be identified for each country. This study identifies key issues on IT transfer process and draws a consensus domain from experts on the key issues. This study also is an attempt to provide a basis for understanding clearly the key elements and requirement for the success and effectiveness of an IT transfer process in Libya. A three- round delphi method was conducted for this study, identifying 15 key issues in the IT transfer, along with their importance and urgency ratings. Analyses show that participating experts achieved a higher level of consensus on the importance and urgency of the issue as the rounds progressed. The findings will assist: (i) academics to build models and provide a broader view and a better understanding of what the important issues are when dealing with successful IT transfer in Libya; (ii) policy makers and government officials to improve and formulate forecasting and policies to promote successful IT transfer process; and (iii) technology suppliers who seek to better understand the key issues surrounding IT transfer success in Libya.