Technology Acceptance and Consumer Decision of Apps. Exploring the Disposition to Use a n App for Regulating Work Life Integration Behaviour.

Abstract

This work aims to better understand motives and barriers of using an app that addresses the evolving phenomenon of ubiquitous accessibility by aiming to regulate work-life-integration-behaviour. Although several quantitative studies examine factors influencing the app-usage, no deeper insight into the preceding decision process is given. Further, research on behaviour changing apps is limited. The Technology Acceptance Model by Davis and Kotler’s buying decision process model serve as the theoretical basis for this study. To test the applicability of the two models and answer the question what influences people to use apps a qualitative interview study with 10 employees from Lower Austria was conducted. The qualitative content analysis reveals multiple factors influencing the decision to use apps. These include one’s attitude, word of mouth and perceived usefulness such as added benefit. Non-perceived usefulness and the non-fulfilment of one’s expectations are amongst the relevant demotivating factors. Although the idea of the proposed app is generally perceived as useful this does not necessarily imply the willingness to use it. Rather, the demands for behaviour changing apps seem more complex as participants desire a very clear added value and room for individualisation. Further, finding the balance between being supportive and too paternalistic is key. On this basis, the two theoretical models are combined and a multidimensional model is created. These results contribute to (1) being able to better design and market apps and (2) offering a supportive measure for regulating work-life-integration.

Datum der Bewilligung	5 Mai 2021
Originalsprache	Englisch
Gradverleihende Hochschule	Fachhochschule Wiener Neustadt GmbH
Betreuer/-in	Karin Wegenstein (Betreuer)