Perceived and factual barriers to virtual organisations : a qualitative study amongst IT companies in Malta

Abstract

This dissertation aims to identify and analyse the reasons for the lack of virtualization in IT organisations in Malta despite the benefits virtualization offers. Benefits and barriers to virtualization are explored through an analysis of literature on the topic and a comparison with qualitative research carried out to determine the extent to which IT organisations in Malta are aware of these barriers. The aim of the exercise is to ensure that IT organisations in Malta are informed not only about the potential benefits of virtualization but that they are also fully cognizant of its challenges. The research attempts to provide answers through the analysis of qualitative interviews targeting IT organisations in Malta ( n = 12 ). Interviews were held with high-ranking officers, capable of understanding and answering the research questions, and who also possess the ability to enforce change within their organisations. Research conducted supports the initial claim that there are few, if any, fully virtual organisations in Malta and introduces the concept of a hybrid semi-virtual organisation. Results show that there are gaps in the knowledge of IT organisations in Malta about the challenges that becoming fully virtual entails, though several have embarked on the path to virtualization through the introduction of teleworking, which may be considered to be a slow evolution towards virtualization. Results showed little or no mention of cultural diversity as a barrier to virtualization. Given the rapid advances in communication technology, and the advantages offered by the virtual model, there is every reason to believe that virtual organisations will become more common in the near future. In an increasingly competitive environment, knowledge about the challenges virtualization poses is a step closer towards enabling IT organisations in Malta to make informed decisions about virtualization.