Malaysian entrepreneurs propensity to use IT innovation

Abstract

Purpose – Theoretical perspectives from other fields are used to shed additional light on an individual's technology acceptance, due to the fact that it is frequently replicated with minor tweaks and extensions. The entrepreneurial event model (EEM) is an intentional model, which measures the volitional aspect of behaviours. The purpose of this paper is to seek to revise and validate this model in the context of technology acceptance, while also investigating information technology (IT) innovation adoption. Design/methodology/approach – In order to test the proposed research model, data are collected using a questionnaire survey from 420 entrepreneurs involved in providing professional services in manufacturing, telecommunication, education, banking and finance, service, and agriculture in Malaysia. The structural equation modelling technique was used to evaluate the research model. Findings – The results of the study confirmed that the model is robust enough to measure the individual dimensions of technology adoption. It also indicated that the propensity to use, perceived desirability and perceived feasibility are significantly and positively related to the intention to use IT innovation. EEM accounted for 82 per cent of the variance in usage intention, and it provided a useful tool for managers to gauge the likelihood of success for new technologies. Originality/value – This paper highlights and expands upon positive implications for academic, managers and policy makers. Applying the EEM model on technology acceptance will serve to illuminate this area and reveal new knowledge perspectives. Policy makers could encourage early-adopter entrepreneurs to adopt and use IT innovation in their businesses, which will in turn encourage others to look up to these early adopter and emulate them, thus increasing the rate of adoption and the use of IT innovation.