Auswirkungen des Persönlichkeitsmerkmals Extraversion auf die Medienwahl von Projektmanagern aus dem IT- und Telekommunikationsumfeld

This thesis examines the relationship between the personality traits extraversion and introversion, and the media use of project managers. The study sample comprised n=230 project managers working in information technology and the telecommunications industry (82% male and 18% female). Each of them has diverse work experience and some are formally trained in project management (certification or lack thereof). Data was collected using an online questionnaire. The model for analysis was based on Hertel et al. (2008), utilizing the B5T® Big Five personality test developed by Satow (2012) and the media synchronicity theory of Dennis, Fuller, and Valacich (2008). The use of regression analysis showed a highly significant and positive impact of extraversion on the preferred degree of media synchronicity. Extroverted project managers preferred a higher degree of synchronicity (e.g. face-to-face meetings and telephone conferences), whereas introverts showed a preference for media with lesser amount of synchronicity (e.g. email and instant messenger). However, this preference was only significant for project managers without certification, leading to the conclusion that formal project management education is a moderating factor. Work experience has a similar effect: Project managers with more than 10 years of experience in the field did not let their personalities influence their media choices. Thus, we can conclude that the influence of the personality traits extraversion and introversion on media choices is superseded by best practices in communication when project managers have either formal education or years of work experience. All findings have been discussed with reference to previous and prospective research