Modelling Factors Influencing IoT Adoption: With a Focus on Agricultural Logistics Operations

Abstract

Purpose- In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the utilization of emerging technologies, notably the Internet of Things (IoT), within the realm of business operations. However, empirical evidence has underscored a disconcerting trend whereby a substantial majority, surpassing 70%, of IoT adoption initiatives falter when confronted with the rigors of real-world implementation. Given the profound implications of IoT in augmenting product quality, this study endeavors to scrutinize the extant body of knowledge concerning IoT integration within the domain of agricultural logistics operations. Furthermore, it aims to discern the pivotal determinants that exert influence over the successful assimilation of IoT within business operations, with particular emphasis on logistics. Design/Methodology/Approach- The research utilizes a thorough systematic review methodology coupled with a meta-synthesis approach. In order to identify and clarify the key factors that influence IoT implementation in logistics operations, the study is grounded in the Resource-Based View theory. It employs rigorous grounded theory coding procedures, supported by the analytical capabilities of MAXQDA software. Findings- The culmination of the meta-synthesis endeavor culminates in the conceptual representation of IoT adoption within the agricultural logistics domain. This representation is underpinned by the identification of three overarching macro categories/constructs, namely: (1) IoT Technology Adoption, encompassing facets such as IoT implementation requisites, ancillary technologies essential for IoT integration, impediments encountered in IoT implementation, and the multifaceted factors that influence IoT adoption; (2) IoT-Driven Logistics Management, encompassing IoT-based warehousing practices, governance-related considerations, and the environmental parameters entailed in IoT-enabled logistics; and (3) the Prospective Gains Encompassing IoT Deployment, incorporating the financial, economic, operational, and sociocultural ramifications ensuing from IoT integration. The findings underscore the imperative of comprehensively addressing these factors for the successful assimilation of IoT within agricultural logistics processes. Originality- The originality of this research study lies in its pioneering effort to proffer a conceptual framework that furnishes a comprehensive panorama of the determinants that underpin IoT adoption, thereby ensuring its efficacious implementation within the ambit of agricultural logistics operations. Practical Implications- The developed framework, by bestowing upon stakeholders an incisive comprehension of the multifaceted factors that steer IoT adoption, holds the potential to streamline the IoT integration process. Moreover, it affords an avenue for harnessing the full spectrum of IoT-derived benefits within the intricate milieu of agricultural logistics operations.