Technology Readiness Research Articles

Healthcare professionals' perspectives towards the digitalisation of paediatric growth hormone therapies: expert panels in Italy and Korea.

To analyse the perspectives of healthcare professionals (HCPs) regarding the acceptance of digital health solutions for growth hormone (GH) deficiency care. This study identified factors impacting HCPs' intent to use and recommend digital solutions supporting recombinant-human growth hormone (r-hGH) therapy in Italy and Korea with a use case of connected drug delivery system (Aluetta® with Smartdot™) integrated in a platform for GH treatment support (the Growzen™ digital health ecosystem). Participatory workshops were conducted in Rome, Italy, and Seoul, Korea, to collect the perspectives of 22 HCPs on various predefined topics. HCPs were divided into two teams, each moderated by a facilitator. The workshops progressed in five phases: introduction of the project and experts, capturing views on the current context of digitalisation, perceived usefulness and ease of use of Aluetta® with Smartdot™, exploration of the perception of health technology evolution, and combined team recommendations. Data shared by HCPs on technology acceptance were independently analysed using thematic analysis, and relevant findings were shared and validated with experts. HCPs from both Italy and Korea perceived Aluetta® with Smartdot™ and the Growzen™ based digital health ecosystem as user-friendly, intuitive, and easy-to-use solutions. These solutions can result in increased adherence, a cost-effective healthcare system, and medication self-management. Although technology adoption and readiness may vary across countries, it was agreed that using digital solutions tailored to the needs of users may help in data-driven clinical decisions and strengthen HCP-patient relationships. HCPs' perspectives on the digitalisation in paediatric GH therapies suggested that digital solutions enable automatic, real-time injection data transmission to support adherence monitoring and evidence-based therapy, strengthen HCP-patient relationships, and empower patients throughout the GH treatment process.

Are young adult consumers ready to be intelligent shoppers? The importance of perceived trust and the usefulness of AI-powered retail platforms in shaping purchase intention

Purpose The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought intelligent online shopping experiences to customers. AI-powered retail platforms deliver personalized shopping experiences through tailored recommendations, promotions and assistance. Given the increasing preference for online shopping, it is crucial to explore methods to optimize the adoption of AI-powered retail platforms. To address this, this study aims to examine the impact of technology readiness motivators (optimism and innovativeness) and inhibitors (discomfort and insecurity) on perceived trust, perceived usefulness and purchase intention toward AI-powered retail platforms. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 276 customers in Egypt, primarily from the millennial and Gen Z demographic segments. The collected data were then analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings The findings revealed that optimism, innovativeness and discomfort significantly influence perceived trust, while optimism, insecurity and perceived trust significantly influence perceived usefulness. Both perceived trust and usefulness are significant predictors of purchase intention. Perceived trust mediates the effects of technology readiness motivators on perceived usefulness and purchase intention. Moreover, perceived usefulness mediates the effects of technology readiness motivators, insecurity and perceived trust on purchase intention. Originality/value To date, there are few investigations regarding the acceptance and adoption of AI-powered retail platforms in developing countries. Thus, this study offers valuable theoretical and practical implications in the context of smart retail technology adoption.

THE INNOVATION SPILLOVER EFFECT: HOW HOUSEHOLD INGENUITY SPILLS INTO BUSINESS INNOVATION

This study investigates a previously overlooked source of employees’ innovative behaviour in the business sector, namely household innovation. Specifically, we seek to explore the spillover of behavioural innovation prototyping experiences between the household and the business sector. Drawing on spillover theory, we explore the bidirectional flow of behavioural innovation prototyping experiences between the household and the business sector. Through a tripartite online survey with 330 working participants over four months, we show how household innovation prototyping experiences affect innovative behaviour in the business sector. Relying on person–environment fit theory, we also examine how this effect may be strengthened by certain contingency factors. Results show that the relationship between spillover effects and employees’ innovative behaviour in the business sector is strengthened by employees’ technology readiness.

Development Of An Endoscopic, Absorption Corrected And Calibrated OH Laser Induced Fluorescence Probe System for High Pressure Combustion Diagnostics

We present the design and preliminary results of an endoscopic OH laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) system that is capable of acquiring 1D-line measurements in high pressure combustion processes within large-scale test facilities. The system can be exploited to acquire line-of-sight OH-chemiluminescence images and absorption corrected absolute OH-species concentration from which additionally temperature distribution can be extracted in case of lean mixtures in chemical equilibrium. Different critical components, such as light guides for high power UV laser pulses and flexible UV image guides, were first tested and characterized in a laboratory setup. Optimization regarding pulse energy and beam quality led to the selection of an 1m long hollow core fiber for laser light delivery as a central element for the experimental setup despite high losses caused by bending the fiber. The image transfer is accomplished by a 7m long flexible UV image bundle, which is preferred to the use of a rigid borescope in harsh environments. We designed the endoscopic UV optics using readily available parts and achieved an approximated image resolution of 21.6 line pairs/mm. Additionally, post-processing methods, such as flat-field correction, can improve the image quality substantially and remove the pixilation effect of the fiber bundle structure nearly completely. To validate the complete system, probe-based qualitative OH-LIF measurements were performed in a well-known laminar flame of a matrix burner, which serves as a mock-up for anticipated applications in an industrial test environment with a technology readiness level (TRL) greater than 4. The final step consists of the integration of the miniaturized optics into a cooled probe system which protects the sensitive optics against the harsh environment of an aero-engine sector combustor. For this purpose, two probe systems were designed to include, on the one hand, the endoscope optics together with the fiber image bundle end tip and, on the other hand, the laser emitting and receiving system for performing an absorption measurement needed to quantify the recorded LIF signal.

Exploring Leadership and Other Influential Dimensions When Assessing Online Learning Modules Within Higher Education Institutions: Insights From Flow Theory and Two-Factor Principles

This study explores the concept of flow status as a crucial factor affecting student engagement in online learning, using Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory as an analytical framework. Herzberg proposed two main principles influencing learner satisfaction: motivating factors associated with increased satisfaction and hygiene factors associated with dissatisfaction avoidance. While both motivation and hygiene factors influence learner satisfaction, this study applies the concept of flow status and incorporates elements of leadership to the concept to examine the implementation of effective learning systems in higher education institutions. A qualitative approach was applied to data collected from 24 interviews with stakeholders in the field of learning, including students, tutors, curriculum designers/programme leaders and policy makers in education. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and subjected to text mining analysis. Most students interviewed identified various hygiene factors as motivating factors, such as their grades and supportive guidance from their tutors, thereby underscoring the importance of leadership visualisation in learning design. These hygiene factors were particularly appreciated in the disruptive environment experienced during the COVID-19 period. Students expressed scepticism about pre-set online group work, suggesting a preference for the ability to choose to participate in various types of group work. Tutors emphasised the importance of motivating factors in student engagement, recognising the significance of students’ technological readiness and effective teamwork in relation to how well they concentrated on their learning. This study develops practical insights for higher education educators, considering contemporary technological impacts and the immersive effects of online module design. The results propose a conceptual model that fosters students’ ability to concentrate in disruptive environments, highlighting the necessity of clear leadership from both system designers and implementers to enhance student engagement in online learning. This study’s findings are expected to serve as a valuable analytical tool for stakeholders in the field of education.

Integrating Upper-Limb Prostheses with the Human Body: Technology Advances, Readiness, and Roles in Human-Prosthesis Interaction.

Significant advances in bionic prosthetics have occurred in the past two decades. The field's rapid expansion has yielded many exciting technologies that can enhance the physical, functional, and cognitive integration of a prosthetic limb with a human. We review advances in the engineering of prosthetic devices and their interfaces with the human nervous system, as well as various surgical techniques for altering human neuromusculoskeletal systems for seamless human-prosthesis integration. We discuss significant advancements in research and clinical translation, focusing on upper limbprosthetics since they heavily rely on user intent for daily operation, although many discussed technologies have been extended to lower limb prostheses as well. In addition, our review emphasizes the roles of advanced prosthetics technologies in complex interactions with humans and the technology readiness levels (TRLs) of individual research advances. Finally, we discuss current gaps and controversies in the field and point out future research directions, guided by TRLs.

Technology in the management of diabetes in hospitalised adults.

Suboptimal glycaemic management in hospitals has been associated with adverse clinical outcomes and increased financial costs to healthcare systems. Despite the availability of guidelines for inpatient glycaemic management, implementation remains challenging because of the increasing workload of clinical staff and rising prevalence of diabetes. The development of novel and innovative technologies that support the clinical workflow and address the unmet need for effective and safe inpatient diabetes care delivery is still needed. There is robust evidence that the use of diabetes technology such as continuous glucose monitoring and closed-loop insulin delivery can improve glycaemic management in outpatient settings; however, relatively little is known of its potential benefits and application in inpatient diabetes management. Emerging data from clinical studies show that diabetes technologies such as integrated clinical decision support systems can potentially mediate safer and more efficient inpatient diabetes care, while continuous glucose sensors and closed-loop systems show early promise in improving inpatient glycaemic management. This review aims to provide an overview of current evidence related to diabetes technology use in non-critical care adult inpatient settings. We highlight existing barriers that may hinder or delay implementation, as well as strategies and opportunities to facilitate the clinical readiness of inpatient diabetes technology in the future.

Framework for the adoption, evaluation and impact of occupational Exoskeletons at different technology readiness levels: A systematic review

Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) are the most common occupational diseases caused by the prolonged performance of strenuous work, such as manual handling of loads or long-term maintenance of incongruous postures. Different safety protocols are implemented to reduce WMSDs and optimize the working environment, but one of the most promising solutions is using occupational exoskeletons (OEs). However, to truly acknowledge the benefits of OEs and be able to introduce them into daily business use, devices must pass several development and testing stages that determine the Technology Readiness Level (TRL). This review study aims to present an up-to-date collection of the most advanced assessments of exoskeletons for upper and back support, ranging from laboratory real-task simulations to operational scenarios in industrial sites. To identify relevant studies, we conducted comprehensive searches across different electronic databases, i.e., PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Different keywords were used for the literature search, e.g., occupational exoskeleton, industrial exoskeleton, etc. Studies were included if they investigated the assessment of exoskeletons in the laboratory with real tasks or an industrial environment. We identified 45 research articles that fulfilled this selection criterion. Several features are compared and discussed in detail, such as industrial environment, experimental protocol, task performed, and exoskeleton typology. These data allowed us to formulate results that report the correspondence or discrepancy between the number of papers testing exoskeletons and WMSDs in different industrial sectors, the type of assessment performed, and the impact of exoskeletons on workers and industries at different TRLs. Among the results, the incidence of WMSDs in the manufacturing industry is 21.13%, while the adoption of exoskeletons in the same field is the highest with respect to the other industrial fields, at 44.45%. Electromyography (EMG) and Questionnaires were the most evaluated typologies across all development and testing stages (with an incidence of 64% across the selected articles). Additionally, an average reduction of EMG activity was reported, with 24% for Upper Limb and 20% for Back Support. Regarding the subjective assessment reported in the questionnaires, 68% of the studies reported a positive evaluation. Based on these outcomes, this work provides a framework for an effective evaluation process for the OEs to raise TRL with recommendations for future research activities.

Attitude towards service robots in tourism and hospitality services settings — The effect of multidimensional anthropomorphism and technology readiness

AbstractThe use of technology in tourism is increasing day by day. Service robots are now on the agenda. The success of developments that envisage a new experience for consumer tourists depends on the accurate prediction of tourists' possible attitudes and behaviors and the influencing antecedents. This study examined consumer tourists' attitudes and usage intentions towards service robots on the multidimensional basis of anthropomorphism and technological readiness (TR). A survey was conducted with 1018 tourists in Türkiye face‐to‐face and using QR codes. Findings showed that attitude towards service robots (AR) mediated the relationship between anthropomorphism, technological readiness and intention to use (IS). Participating tourists anthropomorphically focused on the physical appearance of the robots rather than their functions and internal structures. Service robot experience is still limited in the tourism industry. Therefore, the empirical results obtained are guiding theory and practice in terms of academic studies and tourism service providers.

Biochar as a carbon dioxide removal strategy in integrated long-run mitigation scenarios

Limiting global warming to under 2 °C would require stringent mitigation and likely additional carbon dioxide removal (CDR) to compensate for otherwise unabated emissions. Because of its technology readiness, relatively low cost, and potential co-benefits, the application of biochar to soils could be an effective CDR strategy. We use the Global Change Analysis Model, a global multisector model, to analyze biochar deployment in the context of energy system uses of biomass with CDR under different carbon price trajectories. We find that biochar can create an annual sink of up to 2.8 GtCO2 per year, reducing global mean temperature increases by an additional 0.5%–1.8% across scenarios by 2100 for a given carbon price path. In our scenarios, biochar’s deployment is dependent on potential crop yield gains and application rates, and the competition for resources with other CDR measures. We find that biochar can serve as a competitive CDR strategy, especially at lower carbon prices when bioenergy with carbon capture and storage is not yet economical.

Hydrogen in Energy Transition: The Problem of Economic Efficiency, Environmental Safety, and Technological Readiness of Transportation and Storage

The circular economy and the clean-energy transition are inextricably linked and interdependent. One of the most important areas of the energy transition is the development of hydrogen energy. This study aims to review and systematize the data available in the literature on the environmental and economic parameters of hydrogen storage and transportation technologies (both mature and at high technological readiness levels). The study concluded that salt caverns and pipeline transportation are the most promising methods of hydrogen storage and transportation today in terms of a combination of all parameters. These methods are the most competitive in terms of price, especially when transporting hydrogen over short distances. Thus, the average price of storage will be 0.35 USD/kg, and transportation at a distance of up to 100 km is 0.3 USD/kg. Hydrogen storage underground in a gaseous state and its transportation by pipelines have the least consequences for the environment: emissions and leaks are insignificant, and there is no environmental pollution. The study identifies these methods as particularly viable given their lower environmental impact and potential for seamless integration into existing energy systems, therefore supporting the transition to a more sustainable and circular economy.

Nhân tố ảnh hưởng đến quyết định ứng dụng Blockchain vào quản trị chuỗi cung ứng của doanh nghiệp nhỏ và vừa tại Việt Nam

This study aims to evaluate the factors affecting the decision to apply Blockchain technology (BT) to supply chain management (SCM) for SMEs in Vietnam. By surveying 514 leaders and managers of businesses, the authors performed descriptive statistics using SPSS 26 software, and the measurement model and structural model PLS-SEM were evaluated using SMARTPLS 4 software. The results of the study show that the factors affecting the intention to apply BT to make the decision to apply this technology to SCM of their business, including: (1) Technological readiness, (2) System compatibility, (3) Perceived usefulness (Relative advantage), (4) Complexity, (5) Security and privacy, (6) Cost, (7) Organizational readiness, (8) Legal and policy of Government support, (9) Competitive pressure. Based on the study, the authors proposes a number of implications to provide useful information for businesses and stakeholders in Vietnam to make informed decisions to applying BT to SCM.

Exploring the barriers to implement industrial symbiosis in the apparel manufacturing industry: Implications for sustainable development

Industrial symbiosis, a promising approach for sustainable industrial practices, has garnered attention in recent days for its ability to enhance resource efficiency, minimize waste, and preserve the environment through collaborative exchanges among industries. In emerging economies like Bangladesh, integrating industrial symbiosis in the manufacturing industries offers the potential to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. However, this integration encounters various barriers that complicate the implementation. Despite research on industrial symbiosis in robust economies, studies on emerging and developed economies are still scarce. To date, no research has yet investigated the barriers hindering the performance of industrial symbiosis in the Bangladeshi apparel manufacturing sector. To address this gap, this study integrates the Bayes theorem and the Best-Worst Method to identify and prioritize barriers to the Bangladeshi apparel manufacturing sector. From extensive literature reviews and expert validation, 17 barriers were identified. Findings reveal the “lack of technology and infrastructure readiness” as the most significant barrier, followed by “lack of inter-company cooperation” and “lack of management support”. Conquering these barriers empowers emerging economies to fortify the apparel manufacturing sector's resilience, resource efficiency, and environmental performance while fostering sustainable development via circular economy practices. This study is expected to guide policymakers and stakeholders in crafting targeted strategies for promoting steady growth and sustainable development in the apparel manufacturing sector of emerging economies like Bangladesh.

Integration of technology acceptance models and government support to improve digital literacy

Digital domain is important for the expansion of micro and small enterprises but the gap in readiness to accept the technology impacts businesses. Therefore, this research aims to build an integrated model of Technology Readiness Index, Technology Acceptance Models, and Theory of Reasoned Action expanded with Motivation and government support to increase digital literacy. There are 551 respondents consisting of owners and managers who have been running a business for at least a year. The integration model between Technology Readiness Index, Technology Acceptance Models, and Theory of Reasoned Action expanded with Motivation increases digital literacy, while government support positively influences the variable. The model emphasizes optimism and innovation as key factors in enhancing the construct of Technology Readiness Index model. The results show that there is a strong foundation for the establishment of Technology Acceptance Models and Theory of Reasoned Action expanded with Motivation aimed at supporting digital literacy. This contributes to developing knowledge about the integration model for digital technology acceptance. Practical contributions guide the government in creating appropriate policies to increase digital literacy in SMEs.

Safety culture and worker fatigue management in the offshore oil and gas industry: An interview study

Multiple incidents in the offshore oil and gas industry have been associated with poor safety culture. Regular assessments of safety culture among operators and contractors is recommended as part of a safety management system. Poor safety culture has also shown to impact how operators manage offshore hazards, such as worker fatigue. Assessing workers' fatigue states is also critical to ensure safety in the offshore oil industry. This paper describes findings from an interview study that aimed to identify current safety culture assessment and worker fatigue management practices in the offshore oil and gas industry. One-hour virtual semi-structured interviews were conducted with eighteen offshore oil rig supervisors. Various state-of-the-art methods for assessing safety culture (e.g., experience sampling method) and worker fatigue (e.g., physiological sensors and psychomotor vigilance test) were introduced to the participants. Participants commented on the feasibility and potential barriers to implementation/administration of the various methods, as well as how the information might be useful in their supervisory decisions. User expectations for a safety dashboard displaying data from such tools and user requirements for such a dashboard were elicited. In addition, participants completed a modified technology readiness and acceptance model questionnaire to assess participants' readiness levels and perceived usefulness of a safety dashboard. The interview results revealed a mixed understanding of what safety culture is and opinions about safety culture measurements. Participants indicated that efforts to manage fatigue currently relied solely on supervisors' observation and workers' self-reports. Participants’ opinions about the new assessment methods varied. Some were supportive and commented that the new methods will be helpful to improve supervisory-level decisions, whereas others pointed out potential compliance issues.

Baseball Data Utilization by Korean Professional Baseball Players Focusing on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology as well as Technology Readiness

PURPOSE This study aimed to explore the structural relationships between technology-related factors and the intention to use baseball data, drawing upon the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and technology readiness (TR). METHODS Survey data from 203 Korean professional baseball players were used in frequency, reliability, correlation, and confirmatory factor analyses as well as structural equation modeling. RESULTS Positive TR positively influenced performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and conditions facilitating baseball data use. Negative TR did not significantly impact performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and conditions facilitating baseball data use. Performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and facilitating conditions were found to positively influence data use intention, while social influence did not significantly impact data use intention. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that increasing performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and facilitating condition factors could be key to enhancing the intention to utilize baseball data.

Challenges and Factors Influencing the Implementation of Green Logistics: A Case Study of Saudi Arabia

Logistics operations significantly depend on fossil fuels and non-renewable energy sources, posing challenges to environmental sustainability. Achieving a balance between environmental protection and economic efficiency is vital in logistics decision-making. The concept of green logistics aims to reduce environmental externalities by adopting sustainable practices. This research explores the adoption and utilization of green logistics technologies and information systems through a structural equation model, focusing on key factors such as environmental awareness, organizational culture, and financial considerations. The research methodology involved using a specially designed questionnaire to collect data, which was subsequently analyzed through various stages. The study selected Saudi Arabia as a case study due to its rapid development in the logistics sector and its significant CO2 emissions. Initially, a general quantitative descriptive analysis was performed on the collected responses. This was followed by more detailed analyses to uncover the finer nuances in stakeholders’ perspectives. Additionally, correlation analysis was conducted to identify significant associations between variables and to understand their potential interactions. The findings reveal high environmental awareness among stakeholders, a positive organizational culture conducive to sustainability practices, and a strong recognition of the benefits of green logistics technologies. However, there is room for improvement in technological readiness and a need for clearer government regulations and more robust policy support. Financial considerations are complex, with significant initial investments required and long-term financial benefits recognized.

CONSUMERS ATTITUDE TOWARDS ELECTRIC CARS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO KOLLAM DISTRICT

Automotive industry is undergoing a major transformation.Electric vehicles is gaining popularity owing to technological advancements,environmental benefits and government incentives.This paper presents a review regarding consumer attitude towards electric vehicles.Factors influencing the shift towards electric vehicles such as demographic,socio-economic,environmental and technological readiness are examined.80 respondents are taken for the study from Kollam District in Kerala.The study found a positive attitude towards electric cars. Cost,lack of different models,recharging concerns were the main hindering factors.Overcoming these factors with the help of technological advancement will result in a greener environment.

Factors Affecting Customer Readiness to Trust Chatbots in an Online Shopping Context

This study expands the limited research on chatbots by integrating factors from the unified technology acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model and the technology readiness index (TRI) framework to explain individuals' trust in chatbots within an online shopping context. According to our findings, customer readiness characteristics (innovativeness and optimism) positively affect customers' expectations of chatbots (effort expectations as well as performance expectations), whereas discomfort negatively impacts effort expectations but does not significantly affect performance expectations. In addition, our results indicate that customers' expectancy characteristics of chatbots will positively impact their trust in this technology. These outcomes highlight the importance of an individual's personality and his expectations of the chatbots which will lead to his trust in this technology within the online shopping context. The results provide insights into building trust in chatbots, thus increasing customer willingness to use them.

IT Management Shapes Marketing Using React Native at Gold Konveksi

Gold Konveksi is a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) engaged in the garment industry that has not yet fully utilized technology in its marketing and product promotion. As a result, Gold Konveksi's market reach has been limited. This study aims to analyze the responses from questionnaires completed by respondents, with a specific focus on respondent profiles to generate brief demographic information. The objective of this study is to assess the readiness of both employees and customers of Gold Konveksi towards the adoption of new technology. The methods used in this research include data collection through questionnaires filled out by 247 respondents. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire instruments were tested using SPSS data processing. The validity test involved applying the r-value formula, compared to the r-table value, to determine validity. The reliability test was conducted using Cronbach's Alpha value compared to the reliability threshold. Additionally, the Technology Readiness Index (TRI) was calculated to measure user readiness in adopting new technology. The results of the study indicated a high level of readiness among users. The program interface was evaluated, and system testing was conducted using black box testing to ensure its functionality. Overall, the findings of the research show a high level of readiness among users in adopting new technology, which is expected to enhance transactions and sales data recording at Gold Konveksi.