Digital divide’s three tiers interaction : a conceptual model from the perspective of task-technology fit

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have led the world to a new economy supported by the interactions of individuals through the Internet and the use of this technology. The term digital divide, on the other hand, represents the gap between those who use the Internet and those who cannot. It is a multidimensional concept consisting of three stages: access, use, and outcomes. The first stage refers to the physical infrastructure, the second to the intensity of use of this technology, while the third refers to the benefits associated with the use of this technology. The third stage is important because benefits could embrace economic growth and social inclusion, for example. However, prior research has focused mainly on the two first stages. Our research aims to propose a framework to analyze the three digital divide stages through the task-technology fit lens, which is a model that includes user perception of the fit between task requirements and the Internet. We have also included an additional variable to account for the level of match between user skills and the Internet (user-technology fit). At the theoretical level, our results may provide a conceptual framework to assess the digital divide dimensions and their associated outcomes. In practical terms, strategies that match potential outcomes may be suggested.