Determinants of mobile coupon service adoption: assessment of gender difference

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop and empirically examine a comprehensive model describing the effects of perceived characteristics of mobile coupon services on attitudes and the effects of personal innovativeness and subjective norm (SN) on behavioral intention (BI) to use such services. Gender differences in the process of mobile coupon service adoption were also investigated. Design/methodology/approach – The online survey was distributed to US adult consumers (age 19 and over) recruited through an online sampling service company. A total of 657 useable responses were obtained. Findings – The results showed that in general, compatibility and enjoyment are stronger determinants of attitudes toward mobile coupon adoption than ease of use and usefulness of mobile coupon services. Innovativeness and SN showed strong effects on BI to use mobile coupon services. Furthermore, the results demonstrated gender differences in the relative strength of perceived characteristics that affect attitudes toward mobile coupon services. Enjoyment and usefulness of mobile coupons appear to be more important for females than males while perceived ease of use is a stronger determinant for males. Originality/value – The results of this study furthers understanding of the commercial use of mobile coupons by providing insights into the factors determining consumer adoption of such mobile services.