Factors Influencing Unified Payments Interface Adoption Among Hawkers in Mangaluru: An Extended Technology Acceptance Model Approach

Abstract

This study explores the adoption of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) among hawkers in Mangaluru, India, using the extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The research aims to identify key factors influencing hawkers’ decisions to adopt UPI, contributing to discussions on financial inclusion and the digital economy. A quantitative research design was employed, with 180 hawkers selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from previous studies to suit the context of hawkers. The study examined constructs such as perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEOU), attitudes toward UPI (ATU), facilitating conditions (FC), and behavioral intention to use UPI (BIU). Structural equation modeling (SEM) with AMOS software was utilized to test the relationships among these constructs and to assess the mediating role of ATU. The findings indicate that PU significantly influences hawkers’ intentions to adopt UPI by enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. ATU mediates the relationship between PU and behavioral intention, emphasizing the importance of positive attitudes toward UPI. PEOU is particularly crucial for hawkers with limited digital literacy, while FC, such as reliable internet access and technical support, is essential for overcoming adoption barriers. This study provides valuable insights into UPI adoption among hawkers and offers recommendations to enhance digital payment adoption in the informal sector.