Development of modern payment methods in Poland as an example of technological leapfrogging

Abstract

In the Polish economy consumers can choose from various payment methods. Every method has its advantages and disadvantages. The literature on the subject includes numerous studies proving the higher cost-effectiveness of electronic payments, e.g. using payment cards. Poland is in the group of countries where people rather pay in cash than by payment cards. However, payment innovations are quickly adopted. In the second half of 2018 Poland was the first country in the world in which all payment terminals accepted contactless payments. This was possible thanks to top-down activities (e.g. Cash Support Program) but also thanks to the quick adaptation of these new payment methods by a large part of our society. This could be associated with a relatively shorter period of operation of non-cash payments, which made adaptation of the innovation easier than in other countries already using non-cash payments for some time. The concept of implementing the latest technologically advanced stage without the previous stages is called leapfrogging. The implementation and dynamic development of the latest payment technologies on the Polish market make use of the characteristic of this process, although it is not literal. Interestingly, after the implementation of modern payment methods the processes of further development of payment methods (BLIK system) began in our country, which gained the interest of the global payments giant (Mastercard). Therefore, we are not only adopting technology but also entering the group of technological leaders in the sphere of payments.