Everett M. Rogers’ diffusion of innovations theory was used as a framework
to study 116 chapter members of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) in a
Midwestern state. A web-based survey and paper-based survey were both used to collect
the self-reporting data.
According to Rogers (1986), “Diffusion is the process by which an
innovation is communicated through certain channels over a period of time among
members of a social system” (p. 117). Public relations practitioners are the members of
the social system that were studied. Rogers defined an innovation as, “an idea, practice,
or object that is perceived to be new by an individual or other unit of adoption” (p. 117).
Diffusion research centers on the conditions which increase or decrease the likelihood
that a new idea, product or practice will be adopted by members of a given culture. A
literature review of diffusion of innovation showed no research applying Rogers’ theory
to public relations. It is hoped that this thesis research will to add to the body of
knowledge about diffusion of innovation in public relations by helping to identify the
perceived innovation attributes, influences, obstacles and relative advantage of
innovations by public relations practitioners. This could assist public relations agencies
in weighing the pros and cons of future decisions and strategies for implementing
innovations