AbstractA model identifying seven principal “dimensions” of information systems and sources is developed and tested. The dimensions are defined in terms of “required” user behavior, with an associated scale indicating differential “steps” or levels of this behavior. These required behavior dimensions are seen as yielding both system design information and probable use behavior information in compatible forms.An empirical test of the model is presented which focuses on determining if the suggested patterns of user behavior exist. Data for this test are self‐reports of information system use by R&D personnel. It is found that the dimensions do serve as a model for identif