Abstract:
PURPOSE – Several disciplines and thousands of studies have used, developed and supported technology
adoption theories to guide industry and support innovation. However, within the past decade, a paradigm
shift referred to as the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) has resulted in new considerations affecting how
models are used to guide emerging technology integration into business strategy. The purpose of this study is
to determine which technology adoption model, or models are primarily used when assessing smart
technologies in the 4IR construct. It is not to investigate the rigour of existing models or their theoretical
underpinnings, as this has been proven.
DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH – To achieve this, a systematic literature review based on the preferred
reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis methodology is used. From 3,007 publications, 125
papers between 2015 and 2021 were deemed relevant for thematic analysis.
FINDINGS – From the literature, five perspectives were extracted. As with other information and
communication technology studies, the analysis confirms that the technology acceptance model remains the
predominantly used model. However, 105 of the 125 models extended their theoretical underpinnings,
indicating a lack of maturity. Furthermore, the countries of study and authors’ expertise are predominantly
clustered in the European and Asian regions, despite the study noting expansion into 16 different subject
areas, far beyond the smaller manufacturing scope of Industry 4.0.
ORIGINALITY/VALUE – This study contributes theoretically by providing a baseline to develop a
generalisable 4IR model grounded on existing acceptance trends identified. Practically, these insights
demonstrate the current trends for strategists and policymakers to understand technology adoption within
the 4IR to direct efforts that support innovation development, an increasingly crucial factor for survival in the
digital age. Future research can investigate the additional constructs that were impactful while considering
the level of research they were applied to.
