Internet of Thing (IOT) Based Sensor Technologies and Smart Irrigation System: An Analysis of Critical Success Factors in Emerging Markets

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study explores how smart irrigation systems can be improved by introducing advanced technologies and reducing water consumption to fight climate change. This study aims to identify the factors affecting the success of smart irrigation systems based on the Internet of Things with the mediation of optimal consumption management. This is an applied research employing mixed methodologies (qualitative-quantitative). Initially, the semi-structured interviews were carried out to obtain the effective success factors of the smart irrigation system. Analysis in the qualitative section has been conducted using the Maxqda software. For the quantitative study, a 25-statement questionnaire was applied according to the selected codes obtained with a five-point Likert scale to validate the obtained model. The questionnaire was distributed online in January 2023, and analysis was conducted using SmartPLS3 software. The technical aspects of the questionnaire were assessed using validity and reliability criteria, which can guarantee the precision of the research findings. Construct and content validity were employed in this study to examine the questionnaire’s validity. The researchers employed Cronbach’s alpha coefficient to evaluate the reliability of the measurement instrument. Besides, it can be said that the research instrument has acceptable reliability because obtained Cronbach’s alpha for all variables was greater than 0.70 and the questionnaire’s overall alpha was determined to be 0.810. Furthermore, the t-statistics for all research hypotheses is higher than 1.96 at the 95% confidence level. In this sense, the hypotheses of the research were confirmed. The Internet of Things and will change the nature of activities and services in the market. In fact, for emerging markets, the untapped and growing investment opportunities and the economic leap against the Internet of Things are so enticing and facilitating that it is impossible to resist. and neglecting it will cause irreparable damage to agility. Therefore, the success of the Internet of Things for emerging markets depends on the preconditions of integration of activities carried out by decision-making organizations, facilitation of regulations, and communication and interaction between relevant sectors, which should be considered a priority through cross-sectoral research.