Unified theory of acceptance and use of technology

Acronym
UTAUT

Alternate name(s)
N/A

Main dependent construct(s)/factor(s)
Behavioral intention, Usage behavior

Main independent construct(s)/factor(s)
Performance expectancy, Effort expectancy, Social influence, Facilitating conditions, Gender, Age, Experience, Voluntariness of use

Concise description of theory
The UTAUT aims to explain user intentions to use an IS and subsequent usage behavior. The theory holds that four key constructs (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions) are direct determinants of usage intention and behaviour (Venkatesh et. al., 2003). Gender, age, experience, and voluntariness of use are posited to moderate the impact of the four key constructs on usage intention and behavior (Venkatesh et. al., 2003). The theory was developed through a review and consolidation of the constructs of eight models that earlier research had employed to explain IS usage behaviour (theory of reasoned action, technology acceptance model, motivational model, theory of planned behavior, a combined theory of planned behavior/technology acceptance model, model of PC utilization, innovation diffusion theory, and social cognitive theory). Subsequent validation of UTAUT in a longitudinal study found it to account for 70% of the variance in usage intention (Venkatesh et. al., 2003).

Diagram/schematic of theory


Source: Venkatesh et al. (2003)

Originating author(s)
Venkatesh et al. (2003)

Seminal articles
Venkatesh,Viswanath;Morris,Michael G.;Davis,Gordon B.;Davis,Fred D., “User acceptance of information technology: Toward a unified view”, MIS Quarterly, 2003, 27, 3, 425-478.

Originating area
Information Systems, Technology Adoption

Level of analysis
Individual

IS articles that use the theory
Garfield,Monica J., “Acceptance of Ubiquitous Computing", Information Systems Management, 2005, 22, 4, 24-31.

Links from this theory to other theories
Technology acceptance model, Theory of planned behavior, Theory of reasoned action, Diffusion of innovations theory, Delone and McLean IS success model

Original Contributor(s)
Brent Furneaux Please feel free to make modifications to this site. In order to do so, you must register. Return to Theories Used in IS Research