Chechen Liao, Pui‐Lai To, Chuang‐Chun Liu, Pu‐Yuan Kuo and Shu‐Hui Chuang
A lack of differentiation in the function and appearance of web portals has led to fierce competition; attracting users' attention is no doubt the most important factor for portal…
Abstract
Purpose
A lack of differentiation in the function and appearance of web portals has led to fierce competition; attracting users' attention is no doubt the most important factor for portal success. This study aims to combine rational assessment factors and non‐rational assessment factors to examine their impact on the intended use of portals.
Design/methodology/approach
The research participants were individuals who have experience using web portals. A total of 215 valid questionnaires were collected. Structural equation modelling was used to test the research hypothesis.
Findings
This study is based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), a significant model in MIS research. The results show that all assessment factors have an impact on the intended use of web portals.
Research limitations/implications
TAM emphasised perceived usefulness as the key determinant of user acceptance of technology. This study finds, however, that in the portal context, non‐rational assessment factors such as perceived playfulness and habit have more significant effects on users' intention than perceived usefulness.
Practical implications
The paper concludes that non‐rational assessment factors are important boundary conditions to the validity of the technology acceptance model. To attract users, web site designers should be more aware of aesthetics and the hedonic nature of web users.
Originality/value
This study has contributed to the original TAM by incorporating non‐rational assessment factors. It also validates this empirical model. The results of this study can help practitioners create a more successful business model and help researchers better understand user behaviour on the internet.
Details
Keywords
Arun Kumar Tarofder, Govindan Marthandan, Avvari V. Mohan and Prashantini Tarofder
The purpose of this paper is to investigate empirically the critical factors for the diffusion of web technologies in supply chain management (SCM) functions, based on the…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate empirically the critical factors for the diffusion of web technologies in supply chain management (SCM) functions, based on the technology‐organizational‐environment model, and to identify the benefits resulting from diffusion.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected, via an internet survey, from 251 respondents, ranging from middle‐level to top‐level managers, from firms which currently utilize web technologies for their supply chain activities. Structural equation modelling was employed for five factors: relative advantage; competitive pressure; complexity; trialability; and top management support, which have been hypothesized to affect the diffusion of web technologies in SCM functions.
Findings
The results suggest that all the factors except trialability are significant predictors of web technologies' diffusion in supply chain functions. The results show also that by diffusing web technologies, organizations can enhance their supply chain activities.
Research limitations/implications
The survey was conducted in a Malaysian context, using a limited set of variables, thus limiting the generalizability of the findings.
Practical implications
This study provides a greater understanding of managers' perception of web technology diffusion in their organizational SCM functions, and benefits realizing from diffusion of web technology, such as operational efficiency.
Originality/value
Those interested in adopting web technologies in their supply chain activities may find these results helpful in guiding their efforts.