Information Technology/Information Systems Adoption in Developing and Transitioning Economies

Abstract

This chapter presents a descriptive and critical overview of IT/IS adoption theories/models in developed economies. The theories examined include task technology fit (TTF), technology readiness index (TRI), technology acceptance model (TAM and TAM2), self-efficacy theory (SET), and unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) together with their appropriateness to developed countries/economies. Furthermore, an extensive look at limitations of both TAM and UTAUT (widely utilized) models as applicable to digital/mobile technologies is emphasized. The critical analysis provided thus far did reveal that none of these (IT/IS) models/theories individually are powerful enough to appropriately assess all the complex constructs embedded in the study of mobile technology adoption in developing countries. The contextual nature of individual differences in developing countries together with all cultural and country indicators (ICT infrastructure, internet penetration) would have to be integrated into any developed theory for meaningful analysis to be achieved.