¹Business Information Systems Department, College of Business Administration, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI, U.S.A.

Correspondence: Zhenyu Huang, Business Information Systems Department, College of Business Administration, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, U.S.A. Tel: +1 989 774-7416; Fax: +1 989 774-3356; E-mail: huang1z@cmich.edu

Received 29 March 2006; Revised 14 November 2006; Re-revised 13 February 2007; Accepted 1 March 2007.

Abstract

This research presents a comprehensive analysis of U.S. counties' adoption of e-Government and the functions of the websites. By using content analysis methodology, the services and functions of U.S. county e-Government portals are scrutinized. The investigation instrument is based on political and technological theories, an e-Government stage model, and the review of literature. The research finds that U.S. counties' adoption of e-Government is highly associated with certain socioeconomic factors; in addition, the functionalities of U.S. county e-Government portals are significantly related to six socioeconomic factors according to the multiple regression analysis. The research provides insights for government officials and practitioners to understand and improve e-Government practice. It also sheds light on e-Government research by bringing in a valuable research instrument and comprehensive data about e-Government adoption. The implications for future research are discussed.