Factors influencing the adoption and development of electronic theses and dissertations (ETD) programs, with particular reference to the Arab Gulf States

This paper aims to establish the framework for understanding the positive and negative factors affecting the adoption and development of electronic theses and dissertations (ETD) programs with particular reference to the situation in the Arab Gulf States. The reviewed literature shows that several interrelated factors have been found to encourage the adoption and development of ETD programs in university libraries: the appreciation of the benefits of ETD programs, awareness of these programs, and effective promotional and advocacy work that lead to cultural changes related to views on ETD programs. With regard to the Arab Gulf States, even though there is a lack of available literature, it appears that university libraries have the required infrastructure for encouraging the adoption and development of ETD programs. On the other hand some factors have been found to discourage the adoption of ETD programs. These include: technological factors, legal issues and other administrative issues. With regard to the Arab Gulf States, the available literature shows that some of the influencing factors are the same as those found in other countries, especially administrative and technological factors. In conclusion, it seems that most issues influencing the adoption and development of ETD programs can be resolved by undertaking appropriate promotional and advocacy activities.