Consumer adoption of RFID-enabled services. Applying an extended UTAUT model

In this article, an extended version of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) is applied to explore the significance of various antecedents of acceptance of eight versions of a radio frequency identification (RFID) enabled service. The results show significant influences from performance expectancy, effort expectancy and technology anxiety on attitude to use RFID-enabled services, while facilitating conditions and attitude to use both have significant influences on intention to use the services. Looking into potential moderating influences, gender moderates most of the relationships in the model while age and experience with identification technology do not seem to be relevant moderators. Exploring the potential moderating influence of context experience, experience of the service context is found to moderate some of the relationships in the model. Managerial implications point to the importance of developing useful and user-friendly services and of communicating the user friendliness to potential customers to avoid the potential negative influence of technology anxiety. Service development and market communication should be sensitive to gender and context experience.     

User acceptance of wireless short messaging services: Deconstructing perceived value

Wireless value-added pay-per-use services, such as short messaging services (SMS), have attracted increased attention in recent years. Nevertheless, the extant literature has provided little insight into technology adoption of wireless pay-per-use services. Our study examined this adoption by combining marketing and IS perspectives through an empirical survey of 222 young–adult SMS users. It was hypothesized that perceived value would be a key multidimensional determinant of behavioral intentions. The paper therefore discusses a broadened conceptualization of technology adoption in which value tradeoffs (i.e., price, social, emotional and quality) are critical drivers in the adoption decision.     

User acceptance of context-aware services: self-efficacy, user innovativeness and perceived sensitivity on contextual pressure

The aim of this paper is to empirically examine how individual characteristics affect user acceptance of context-aware services such as GPS-based telematics systems and location-based commerce, which together have become highly promising fields for mobile or ubiquitous e-commerce. To examine these individual characteristics, we applied a technology acceptance model to construct an amended model that focuses on three individual differences: self-efficacy, personal innovativeness and perceived sensitivity on contextual pressure. As a result, we discovered that the perceived sensitivity on contextual pressure, which is newly adopted as a construct in this paper, affects behavioural intention in using context-aware services.     

User acceptance of context-aware services: self-efficacy,user innovativeness and perceived sensitivity on contextual pressure

The aim of this paper is to empirically examine how individual characteristics affect user acceptance of context-aware services such as GPS-based telematics systems and location-based commerce, which together have become highly promising fields for mobile or ubiquitous e-commerce. To examine these individual characteristics, we applied a technology acceptance model to construct an amended model that focuses on three individual differences: self-efficacy, personal innovativeness and perceived sensitivity on contextual pressure. As a result, we discovered that the perceived sensitivity on contextual pressure, which is newly adopted as a construct in this paper, affects behavioural intention in using context-aware services.     

Consumer characteristics and e-grocery services: the primacy of the primary shopper

Electronic Commerce Research - The literature does not agree on the precise role of socio-demographic characteristics in the adoption of online grocery shopping. This methodological note reviews...     

Uses and gratifications and acceptance of Web-based information services: An integrated model

This study combines the technology acceptance model (TAM) and uses and gratifications theory (U&G) to create an integrated model that predicts usage and satisfaction with Web-based information services (WIS). Two pilot studies and three laboratory experiments were conducted to test and develop the concepts, measurements, and the integrated model. The results support the proposed integrated model. Behavioral intention and entertainment motive collectively predicted behavioral usage. Satisfaction was positively associated with the level of usage. The good structure fit with the merge model and data showed that the model explained more than 30% variance of behavioral usage. Although both theories are solid acceptance theories, U&G provides specific information and a more complete understanding of usage, whereas TAM constructs are easily used with Web-based applications. This study gives researchers and practitioners an interdisciplinary perspective for investigating the phenomenon of technology acceptance. In addition, it merges the strengths from the fields of information systems and communications.     

Understanding pre-service teachers' computer attitudes: applying and extending the technology acceptance model

Abstract   Computers are increasingly widespread, influencing many aspects of our social and work lives, As we move into a technology-based society, it is important that classroom experiences with computers are made available for all students. The purpose of this study is to examine pre-service teachers' attitudes towards computers. This study extends the technology acceptance model (TAM) framework, with subjective norm and facilitating conditions acting as external variables. Results shows that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and subjective norm were significant determinants of pre-service computer attitudes. Facilitating conditions did not influence computer attitude directly but through perceived ease of use. These findings demonstrate that social norm and facilitating conditions are potential variables that may be used to extend the TAM for research on computer attitudes.     

Factors affecting e-training adoption: an examination of perceived cost,computer self-efficacy and the technology acceptance model

The objective of this paper is to highlight the role that perceived cost, computer self-efficacy and the technology acceptance model (TAM) constructs have in e-training adoption in the Nigerian civil service. With the use of the SmartPLS 2.0 M3 software, a framework that included perceived cost, computer self-efficacy and TAM constructs (perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU)) was tested on 450 heads of departments. Scales on perceived cost, computer self-efficacy, PU and PEOU developed by previous studies were modified accordingly and used. This paper found perceived cost to have a significant effect on e-training adoption. Computer self-efficacy was statistically insignificant through PEOU. In addition, PEOU had an indirect effect through PU. Therefore, only PU of the TAM constructs indicated strong predictive strength in e-training adoption. This paper showed that with e-training adoption, facilities such as computers can be put in place, which can improve the outlook of the civil service. In addition, the cost that is usually associated with traditional training can be reduced, increasing the opportunity to invest in other aspects of the civil service which can help in adding to the overall performance. Relationships were examined in this paper, which were shown to be favourable to e-training adoption in the Nigerian civil service.     

The impact of cognitive absorption on perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use in on-line learning: an extension of the technology acceptance model

Internet-based learning systems are being used in many universities and firms but their adoption requires a solid understanding of the user acceptance processes. Our effort used an extended version of the technology acceptance model (TAM), including cognitive absorption, in a formal empirical study to explain the acceptance of such systems. It was intended to provide insight for improving the assessment of on-line learning systems and for enhancing the underlying system itself. The work involved the examination of the proposed model variables for Internet-based learning systems acceptance. Using an on-line learning system as the target technology, assessment of the psychometric properties of the scales proved acceptable and confirmatory factor analysis supported the proposed model structure. A partial-least-squares structural modeling approach was used to evaluate the explanatory power and causal links of the model. Overall, the results provided support for the model as explaining acceptance of an on-line learning system and for cognitive absorption as a variable that influences TAM variables.     

Five-factor model personality traits as predictors of perceived and actual usage of technology

Understanding the adoption and use of technology is extremely important in the field of information systems. Not surprisingly, there are several conceptual models that attempt to explain how and why individuals use technology. Until recently, however, the role of personality in general, and the five-factor model (FFM) of personality in particular, had remained largely unexplored. Our study takes an interactional psychology perspective, linking components of the FFM to the use of technology within the conceptual framework of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). After empirically confirming previous research findings linking performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence to technology use, we test direct relationships between FFM personality traits and technology use in the context of a web-based classroom technological system, utilizing measures of perceived and actual use of technology. Consistent with expectations, conscientiousness and neuroticism are associated with perceived and actual use of technology, with conscientiousness demonstrating a positive association with both perceived and actual use and neuroticism, a negative association. Extraversion was also significantly associated with actual use, although not in the positive direction expected. Further, the significant relationships between the personality traits and the actual use of technology were direct and not mediated by expressed intentions to use the system.     

Understanding trust and perceived usefulness in the consumer acceptance of an e-service: a longitudinal investigation

E-services remain characterised by uncertainty despite their proliferation. Consumer trust beliefs are therefore considered an important determinant of e-service adoption. However, the research has not yet considered the potentially dynamic nature of these trust beliefs or how early-stage trust might influence later-stage adoption and use. To address this gap, this study draws on the theory of reasoned action and expectation–confirmation theory in a longitudinal study of trust in e-services. We examine how trust interacts with other consumer beliefs such as perceived usefulness (PU) and how these beliefs together influence consumer intentions and behaviours concerning e-services at both the initial and latter stages of use. The empirical context is online health information services. Data collection on a student population occurred during two time periods approximately five weeks apart. The results show that PU and trust are important at both the initial and latter stages in the consumer acceptance of online health services. Consumers’ actual usage experiences modify perceptions of usefulness and influence the confirmation of their initial expectations. These results have implications for our understanding of the dynamic nature of trust and PU as well as their roles in the long-term sustainability of e-services.     

Quality assessment system for milk acceptance and a mathematical model of dairy produce drying

The paper presents an automated quality assessment system for milk feedstock at the acceptance phase. A mathematical model of milk drying process based on sequence variant diagrams and experimental transient functions is developed.     

Ergonomics in Northern Ireland: a survey of knowledge,attitudes, and implementation in industry and the public services

Abstract

In spite of the palpable benefits to organizations of applying the principles of ergonomics, it appears that a majority of employers, whether through ignorance or neglect, fail to do so (Simpson 1990). The present study sought to assess the impact of ergonomics on a broad cross-section of organizations in Northern Ireland from three perspectives: (1) knowledge and awareness of ergonomics; (2) attitudes towards ergonomics; and (3) the extent to which the principles of ergonomics were put into practice in the work-place. In all, 700 organizations were surveyed, representing manufacturing, service, and public sectors and ranging in size from 10 to more than 1000 employees. A total of 417 questionnaires (59·7%) were returned and, of these, 152 (36·5%) claimed no knowledge whatever of ergonomics. The extent to which knowledge was claimed tended to depend on the nature of the organizations. Analysis of the remaining 263 questionnaires revealed that, while only 36 organizations employed ergonomic specialists or engaged outside ergonomic consultants, 163 respondents reported specific instances of addressing ergonomic issues during the previous 12 months. Respondents exhibited generally positive attitudes towards ergonomics, although some cynicism was evident. Principal components analysis of the questionnaire items revealed several factors, most notably a general concern for ergonomic issues, cynicism towards ergonomics and, arguably, an attitude of helplessness concerning the state of the organization. Implications of these findings for promoting implementation of ergonomics within organizations are discussed.     

Determinants of the intention to use NFC technology as a payment system: an acceptance model approach

The worldwide growth of mobile technology has enabled many companies to take advantage of its application as complementary sales tools. The main objective of this research is user acceptance analysis of near field communication mobile payment systems. Classic variables from the technology acceptance model, as well as variables from other recent studies, were used as models for this research (compatibility, security, personal innovation and individual mobility). To meet these objectives a questionnaire, filled out by 191 respondents, formed the basis of a structural equation modeling designed by PLS 3.0 software. The results show that attitude, subjective norms and innovation and are determinants of the future intention to use this technology. Finally, the main implications for corporate management and business development strategies which reinforce this type of business in light of new technical developments are discussed.     

A dual-attitude model of system use: The effect of explicit and implicit attitudes

This study advances the understanding of system use by suggesting that it can be driven by two types of attitudes. First, the often studied explicit attitude can be a basis upon which behavioral intentions are formed, and behavioral intentions drive system use. Second, the newly conceptualized and measured implicit attitude, which is triggered with limited or no awareness and intentional effort, can directly drive system use and serve as a basis upon which IS habit is formed. Explicit and implicit attitudes can uniquely explain variance in use behavior and act through separate mechanisms to influence system use.     

Continuance intention of E-portfolio system: A confirmatory and multigroup invariance analysis of technology acceptance model

The technology acceptance model (TAM) has been applied in various fields to study a wide range of information technologies. Although TAM has been developed in this research stream in Taiwan, TAM's issues of measurement have received scant attention. A robust model must perform measurement invariance across different respondent subgroups to ensure that various sample profiles have the same relationship. A survey of regarding E-portfolio system reuse intention was constructed, resulting in 360 valid responses across subgroups differing in gender, grade, and levels of willingness to share, to examine the measurement invariance of TAM. The results empirically support the validity of our TAM instrument for evaluating E-portfolio reuse intentions behavior. These findings suggest that men and women, differing grades, levels of willingness to share conceptualize the TAM construct in similarly. The implications of these results enable us to understand TAM's validity in E-portfolio acceptance research.     

The utilization of e‐government services: citizen trust,innovation and acceptance factors*

Abstract. Electronic government, or e‐government, increases the convenience and accessibility of government services and information to citizens. Despite the benefits of e‐government – increased government accountability to citizens, greater public access to information and a more efficient, cost‐effective government – the success and acceptance of e‐government initiatives, such as online voting and licence renewal, are contingent upon citizens’ willingness to adopt this innovation. In order to develop ‘citizen‐centred’ e‐government services that provide participants with accessible, relevant information and quality services that are more expedient than traditional ‘brick and mortar’ transactions, government agencies must first understand the factors that influence citizen adoption of this innovation. This study integrates constructs from the Technology Acceptance Model, Diffusions of Innovation theory and web trust models to form a parsimonious yet comprehensive model of factors that influence citizen adoption of e‐government initiatives. The study was conducted by surveying a broad diversity of citizens at a community event. The findings indicate that perceived ease of use, compatibility and trustworthiness are significant predictors of citizens’ intention to use an e‐government service. Implications of this study for research and practice are presented.     

The role of individual and system characteristics in computerized training systems

Two studies examined the role of characteristics that are important to consider in the development of computerized training systems. The first study employed covariance structure modeling and tested a hypothesized model regarding the relationship among three latent variables and a set of measured variables serving as indicators for the latent variables. The overall model fit quite well according to both statistical and practical assessments. Results indicate that, for naive users, a latent variable reflecting an individual's attitude toward computers has a significant influence on the other two latent variables, one being how the computerized task is perceived, and the second being the choice of interacting with a computer in the future. A structural path representing the influence of the current experience with the computer has a small directional influence on future interaction preference with a person rather than a computer. A second study examined system characteristics and focused specifically on preferences for how much power an expert system should be given. Scenarios were developed depicting three different types of expert systems, each with three different levels of power. Results indicate that individuals prefer those systems with either low or moderate power, those which do not initiate action without human intervention. Systems that initiate action on their own are not viewed positively. The discussion focuses on implications for future training systems.     

Driver acceptance of car navigation systems: integration of locational accuracy,processing speed,and service and display quality with technology acceptance model

By utilizing and extending the technology acceptance model, this study introduces a new integrated model that analyzes driver acceptance of car navigation systems. The current study conducts in-depth interviews and explores psychological factors that may be significantly related to the usability of car navigation systems. Data collected from 1,181 drivers via an online survey are statistically analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results indicate that the proposed research model accurately predicts driver acceptance of car navigation systems. The model identifies perceived processing speed and locational accuracy of car navigation systems as key psychological constructs, and reveals that satisfaction plays a moderate role. Theoretical implications and practical implications for improving car navigation systems are discussed.