A case study of the benefits of the IoT in the Qatari retail industry

Abstract

Technological advancements have led to the creation of new paradigms like the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies are moving the digital space into a period where they will power billions of devices leading to the transformations of products and services provided by businesses. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to explore the benefits of deployment of the Internet of Things (IoT) in businesses using the case of the Qatari retail businesses. The study assumed an interpretivism research philosophical stance and an addictive approach to theory utilising the Technology, Organisation, Environment model to guide the research. The research data were gathered using a qualitative approach utilising semi-structured interviews as the method of data collection. Accordingly, the heads of information technology in the selected retail industry businesses in Qatar were interviewed to answer the main research questions. The findings uncovered that retailers in Qatar are using the IoT devices such as sensors, scanners, beacons, smart shelves, personalisation alerts, and FRIDs to enable their key business operations and processes. Even though the Qatar retail businesses are not concerned about the specific IoT devices utilised, the benefits of their deployment established from the study include automation of business processes (Technological benefits), efficiency and personalisation of customer requirements (Organisational benefits), and increased collaboration and supply chain optimisation within the entire Qatar retail industry (Environmental benefits). As such, the results of the study agree with the TOE model that technology, organisation, and environment are the driving forces behind technology adoption and utilisation. Finally, among practical implications, a collaboration between software developers and the retail industry project professionals will ensure that the IoT artefacts are designed with security mechanisms, thus enhancing the security and safety of the information gathered from the IoT devices. Further, the study offers guidance on the theoretical elements that contribute to the benefits of utilising the IoT in Qatar retail businesses.