DOES UNCERTAINTY PLAY A VICIOUS ROLE IN IOS ADOPTION DECISIONS BY SMALL BUSINESS MANAGERS?

Abstract

Aim/Purpose Explores the interrelationships between uncertainty, motivation, and IT readiness when predicting IOS adoption among small businesses. Background Small business IOS adoption is proportionally low in most countries worldwide. Methodology Uses a sample of small businesses and PLS structural-equations path modelling approach. Contribution Uncertainty is an underexplored construct in information systems research, and our research shows that it plays a significant role in IOS adoption among small businesses Findings The findings support that uncertainty has a negative effect on intent to adopt IOS and that motivation and IT readiness have a positive effect. Recommendations for Practitioners To alleviate uncertainty, an effort to win over small business managers to IOS over the internet must encompass accessible information, security provisions, low-cost product, simple interfaces, and system adaptability to existing provisions in the IOS network. Recommendations for Researchers The uncertainty perspective has not been tested extensively empirically, especially not in the context of technology adoption, and needs further investigation.