This invention relates to organometallic compounds represented by the formula M(NR1R2)x wherein M is a metal or metalloid, R1 is the same or different and is a hydrocarbon group or a heteroatom-containing group, R2 is the same or different and is a hydrocarbon group or a heteroatom-containing group; R1 and R2 can be combined to form a substituted or unsubstituted, saturated or unsaturated cyclic group; R1 or R2 of one (NR1R2) group can be combined with R1 or R2 of another (NR1R2) group to form a substituted or unsubstituted, saturated or unsaturated cyclic group; x is equal to the oxidation state of M; and wherein said organometallic compound has (i) a steric bulk sufficient to maintain a monomeric structure and a coordination number equal to the oxidation state of M with respect to anionic ligands, and (ii) a molecular weight sufficient to possess a volatility suitable for vapor deposition; a process for producing the organometallic compounds, and a method for producing a film or coating from organometallic precursor compounds.