Solomon Odei-Appiah, Gamel Wiredu and Joseph Kwame Adjei
Financial Technology (FinTech) innovations enable the provision of financial services to many unbanked across the world by increasing access. The key role of FinTech to drive…
Abstract
Purpose
Financial Technology (FinTech) innovations enable the provision of financial services to many unbanked across the world by increasing access. The key role of FinTech to drive financial inclusion however suffers significant impediments including the digital divide. Nevertheless, there is paucity of elaborate theories on financial inclusion while extant literature on FinTech only identify factors that drive its acceptance and use with little attention to inhibitors such as the digital divide. This study aims to investigate the impact of FinTech usage on financial inclusion amid the digital divide.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT2) and the model of digital inequality. A structural equation modeling technique is applied to data collected from 282 respondents in an online survey.
Findings
The findings confirm a positive influence of FinTech use on financial inclusion as well as the influence of performance expectancy and facilitating conditions on behavioral intentions. The results also show that digital divide measured with access, resource and force moderate the use of FinTech.
Originality/value
This study presents a theoretical model which is unique given that UTAUT2 was combined with digital divide moderators from the model of digital inequality to explain how FinTech usage impacts on financial inclusion. Addressing the research questions has led several theoretical contributions including the extension of the applicability of UTAUT2.
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Joseph Kwame Adjei, Solomon Odei-Appiah and Peter Ebo Tobbin
Information system continuance model has been used in a number of studies to explain information system continuance in different contexts. However, very little research attention…
Abstract
Purpose
Information system continuance model has been used in a number of studies to explain information system continuance in different contexts. However, very little research attention has been given to continuous use of mobile financial services (MFS). The purpose of this study is to fill this research gap by identifying the main factors that influence the continual use of MFS.
Design/methodology/approach
A sample was randomly taken from MFS registered accounts or mobile wallets. A five-point Likert scale survey was conducted in Ghana. Structural equation modelling was used to test the data. Constructs such as continual use, satisfaction, perceived usefulness and confirmation were adapted from information system continuance model to suit the requirement of MFS. A pilot study was then carried out after the questionnaire was developed to gauge the appropriateness of the survey questions.
Findings
Results from the survey indicated that user satisfaction has the greatest impact on the continual use of mobile financial services. Good agent quality and satisfaction were the second most influential determinant. Satisfaction was, in turn, confirmed to be determined by perceived usefulness. Another important contributor to MFS continual use was found to be perceived ease of use (PEOU) with an impact surprisingly higher than that of perceived usefulness. There was a significant impact of good agent quality on satisfaction, which could be attributed to the characteristics of the technology for the study.
Research limitations/implications
Although a relatively high R2 (71%) was indicated by the proposed model, there is need for additional factors to be identified to improve the ability to predict and explain the continual use of MFS. A longitudinal study would have enhanced the identification of determinants and the understanding of their inter-relationships to influence MFS continual use.
Practical implications
To ensure continual use of MFS, PEOU as identified by the study is important to ensure that customers can use the service with little effort. Good agent quality can promote PEOU in the sense that competent agents can render relevant tutorials to customers’ right after the registration process. This will address a major barrier to continual use, which is the lack of understanding of how MFS operate.
Social implications
This study contributes to ensuring financial inclusion such that the unbanked can have access to financial services and also improve digital inclusion.
Originality/value
The study provides empirical evidence to support the substantive differences between acceptance and continual use behaviours, integrating the constructs of good agent quality and PEOU into our understanding of information system continual use literature. The authors also theorized and evaluated a model of MFS continual use.
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The purpose of this paper is to explain the role of trust in cloud computing services based on empirical evidence from interviewing executives of financial institutions in Ghana…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explain the role of trust in cloud computing services based on empirical evidence from interviewing executives of financial institutions in Ghana. The paper answers the questions: what is the role of trust in cloud computing service acquisition, and what policies promote trusted cloud computing services?
Design/methodology/approach
This is an explanatory paper that is based on literature review and empirical data on exploring reasons for cloud computing service acquisitions. A combination of interviews and focus group discussions was used as methods for data collection. Information technology and electronic banking executives of five major commercial banks in Accra, Ghana, between January and July 2013 were interviewed. A total of ten respondents were interviewed, two in each of the selected banks. A purposive sampling technique was used in the selection of informants. This approach allows the selection of qualified informants to ensure extensiveness and diversity of opinion.
Findings
Although previous literature proffers various factors as key to cloud computing adoption, uses or provisioning, this study brings trust to the fore as an imperative for cloud computing service acquisition by financial institutions. It also shows that trust increases if users perceive that cloud computing service providers act in honesty and in users’ interest, making trust a fundamental factor that informs financial institutions’ decision to acquire cloud computing services.
Research limitations/implications
The research introduces a new dimension about the widely held perceptions of the factors that influence adoption of cloud computing services.
Practical implications
Developers of cloud computing solutions that are targeted at corporate users must focus on systems that enhances their trustworthiness, as it is a primary criteria for user buy-in. Similarly, any trust-building effort by cloud computing service providers minimizes users’ concerns and pushes the services providers closer to the trust threshold.
Originality/value
The paper outlines the trust factors that are imperative for cloud computing uses by financial institutions. This is one of the pioneering papers that address trust issues in cloud computing from the perspective of financial institutions.
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The aim of this paper is to present a qualitative study on implementation of trusted identity management systems. Identity management and assurances in developing countries…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this paper is to present a qualitative study on implementation of trusted identity management systems. Identity management and assurances in developing countries generates a lot of controversy and challenges for society and this study was set out to design model for trusted identities framework.
Design/methodology/approach
Trusted identities framework from a societal perspective is a multi‐stakeholder issue and hence a qualitative research method was deemed appropriate given that it provides opportunities for engagement of stakeholders from different avenues. The use of a stakeholder forum offered a good opportunity for interested parties to raise their issues and get responses. The interviews were also a means of getting clarifications and also offered those not comfortable in public speaking to make their point.
Findings
The study made the following interesting findings: that trusted identities depend on institutional collaboration, user empowerment, system quality, information quality and service quality. Also the paper found out that when high privacy concern is associated with low levels of trust (distrust) and for that matter, society must strive for trusted identities ecosystems, which is the point where trust and privacy concern are at equilibrium as illustrative with the privacy concern – trust curve (PCTC).
Research limitations/implications
Even though this study makes profound revelations on trusted identities framework, the findings have not been tested empirically to prove the nature of the relationship. It will be interesting to find out whether the relationship between privacy concern and trust is a straight‐line or indeed a curve. Also it will be interesting to find out the extent of causality between institutional cooperation and trust.
Practical implications
The study has both practical and research implications. The findings can influence national policy making with respect to identity management, by focusing more on empowerment and institutional cooperation on interoperable technologies, standards and regulation. It also serves as an addition to the existing research on information systems success.
Originality/value
The PCTC curve is a major addition to literature on trust, privacy and identity management. The study will be of value to identity management researchers and identity management policy makers in developing countries.
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Philemon Seth Ackom, Kwame Owusu Kwateng, Francis Kamewor Tetteh and Manuel Wiesche
Literature reveals that citizens’ intentions or willingness to adopt and use e-government services in developing countries like Ghana have not been encouraging regardless of the…
Abstract
Purpose
Literature reveals that citizens’ intentions or willingness to adopt and use e-government services in developing countries like Ghana have not been encouraging regardless of the importance of these services. This study aims to examine the factors that inhibit the virtualization of government to citizen e-government processes by assessing citizens’ intentions to resist or use government’s virtualized processes.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a survey questionnaire to collect data from public school teachers who are users of the Government of Ghana’s e-pay slip system. Out of 500 questionnaires administered, only 423 useable responses were obtained. The data was analyzed with both inferential and descriptive statistics.
Findings
The results of this study showed that process virtualizability significantly predicts virtual process use, and it is associated with user resistance toward virtual process use.
Practical implications
The findings will help governments and managers to comprehend that certain processes are more acquiescent to virtualization than others.
Originality/value
This paper provides researchers with a contemporary perspective toward understanding the adoption and use of e-government services in sub-Saharan Africa through the lens of process virtualization theory.
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Michael Nii Addy, Evans Teye Addo, Titus Ebenezer Kwofie and Joseph Eguei Yartey
The substantial benefits of e-procurement to organizations and institutions have, over the past two decades, become central to supply chain management. This study aims to identify…
Abstract
Purpose
The substantial benefits of e-procurement to organizations and institutions have, over the past two decades, become central to supply chain management. This study aims to identify the factors that facilitate the adoption of e-procurement system using modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2).
Design/methodology/approach
Using a quantitative approach, the factors identified in the UTAUT2 are operationalized and examined carefully. The investigation has been conducted using a survey questionnaire. The data set has been obtained from 205 construction professionals in Ghana.
Findings
The research evinced that the decision by individuals to adopt e-procurement is mainly influenced by performance expectancy and social influence. By implication, the study found out that the respondents are more likely to adopt e-procurement if it is seen to be user-friendly and useful, and when they have a community of people supporting its use. Overall, the findings suggest that the model can stimulate a high adoption and intention to use e-procurement technologies, given its good predictive potential and robustness.
Practical implications
The structures uncovered in the study show that not all UTAUT2 factors are applicable within the study area. The findings provide a good backdrop in the development of policy and a roadmap for e-procurement implementation in Ghana. This is particularly useful for system development and implementation purposes for government agencies, contracting organizations, professionals and users of e-procurement technologies.
Originality/value
The original contribution and value of the paper is the use of UTAUT2 to provide evidence on their significance to e-procurement adoption among construction professionals.
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Temidayo Oluwasola Osunsanmi, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala and Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke
The prevalent practice of construction supply chain (CSC) in developing countries with a focus on Africa was presented in this chapter. Two African countries (South Africa and…
Abstract
The prevalent practice of construction supply chain (CSC) in developing countries with a focus on Africa was presented in this chapter. Two African countries (South Africa and Ghana) were selected due to the extensive literature on the CSC emanating from the countries. The impediment to the effective management of the CSC in the two African countries was also examined in this chapter. It was discovered that the vital inhibition to the performance of CSC in developing countries is the adoption of culture from developed countries without a proper model for ensuring its implementation in developing countries. Also, no model has incorporated the principles and technologies of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) to manage the CSC. The failure to adopt the 4IR technologies like block chain, big data and the internet of things has prevented the proper application of CSC practices in developing countries. CSC practices like collaboration, integration, lean supply chain, information sharing, financial management and communication are the primary practice in developing countries. Finally, this chapter called for the development of a model for managing the CSC in developing countries in alignment with the principles of the 4IR.
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Samuel Oduro, Hayford Pittri, Barbara Simons, Benjamin Baah, Eunice Deedei Anteh and John Adjei Oduro
Net zero energy buildings (NZEBs) play a crucial role in mitigating the environmental impact of the construction industry. However, this concept in Ghana is still in the infancy…
Abstract
Purpose
Net zero energy buildings (NZEBs) play a crucial role in mitigating the environmental impact of the construction industry. However, this concept in Ghana is still in the infancy stage, and the level of embracement in the construction industry is uncertain which further poses challenges to its adoption. This can be attributed to the lack of awareness of NZEB among construction professionals. Hence, understanding the awareness among construction professionals is essential for promoting sustainable building practices and reducing the carbon footprint of buildings. Therefore, this study investigates the level of awareness of NZEBs among construction professionals in the Ghanaian construction industry (GCI).
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted a quantitative research method where questionnaire survey was used to obtain data from sixty-six (66) construction professionals in the GCI through snowball sampling technique. The collected data were analysed using frequencies, mean scores, one-sample t-test and cross-tabulation.
Findings
The study revealed that thirty (30) construction professionals out of the sixty-six (66) had a moderate level of awareness of NZEBs, and 14 professionals had a low level of awareness. Thirteen had a high level of awareness. Three of the profesionals were extremely unaware, while six had a very high level of awareness. The study’s findings highlight the need to create awareness of NZEBs and their practices among construction professionals and employees in Ghana.
Originality/value
NZEB is an under-explored area in the Ghanaian context and therefore, this study uniquely highlights the nascent awareness of NZEBs among Ghanaian construction professionals, unlike previous studies in more developed contexts. It underscores the critical need for targeted awareness programs essential for reducing the carbon footprint and advancing the adoption of NZEBs in the GCI.
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Nikita Sanze, Bylon Abeeku Bamfo and Lydia Nyankom Takyi
This study aims to assess the impact of intervention programs on women empowerment in northern Ghana and the role of skills training and financial independence on women…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to assess the impact of intervention programs on women empowerment in northern Ghana and the role of skills training and financial independence on women empowerment.
Design/methodology/approach
A structured questionnaire, observations and informal interviews were used to gather data using the survey method. The sample consists of 321 girls from the non-formal track STAGE project in the Kasena Nankana West District of the Upper East Region. The data were analyzed using a structural equation model.
Findings
The results show that NGO intervention programs have a significant impact on women’s empowerment, skills acquisition mediates the relationship between NGO intervention programs and women empowerment. Financial independence does not mediate relationships but significantly affects women’s empowerment.
Originality/value
The discussion on women’s empowerment is not without mentioning the support of NGOs intervention programs. However, there is inadequate literature to explore the basic impacts of sponsored intervention programs on women’s empowerment in Ghana. The findings will provide directions for NGOs intervention programs to support women empowerment in Ghana.
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Rex Asibuodu Ugulu, Andrew Arewa and Stephen Allen
The purpose of this paper is to establish the perception of tradespeople about project-specific constraints (PSCs) influencing construction productivity in Nigeria.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to establish the perception of tradespeople about project-specific constraints (PSCs) influencing construction productivity in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a qualitative descriptive survey comprising face-to-face semi-structured interviews and a purposive sampling method, views of eight groups of tradespeople and seven project managers on live construction projects in Nigeria were collected. The study used conventional content analysis with the aid of NVivo 12 pro computer software for the analysis.
Findings
The research evaluated the PSCs and their effect on construction productivity of tradespeople. The findings identified five key PSCs, namely: lack of promotions/reward system, unsafe/poor health condition of workers, delay in material availability, inadequate site amenities and an ageing workforce. These results support earlier research on constraints influencing labour productivity, however, the poor health condition of workers and material unavailability appear to be more unique when compared to other previous studies.
Research limitations/implications
The study focussed on the Federal Capital Territory Abuja and the Lagos State of Nigeria. It provides insight into the PSCs influencing the productivity of tradespeople in the Nigerian construction industry. Further research to identify the PSCs in depth, in the Eastern part of Nigeria is necessary.
Practical implications
The PSCs influencing tradespeople’s productivity was identified. The level of the relative impact of the PSCs is expected to guide the project team in addressing the PSCs in a method that is cost effective.
Originality/value
This study is original research that has underlined some areas of improvement in construction project performance.