Factors Influencing the Adoption of Smart Wearable Devices

ABSTRACT

This article examined factors associated with the adoption of smart wearable devices. More specifically, this research explored the contributing and inhibiting factors that influence the adoption of wearable devices through in-depth interviews. The laddering approach was used in the interviews to identify not only the factors but also their relationships to underlying values. The wearable devices examined were a Smart Glass (Google Glass) and a Smart Watch (Sony Smart Watch 3). Two user groups, college students and working professionals, participated in the study. After the participants had the opportunity to try out each of the two devices, the factors that were most important in deciding whether to adopt or not to adopt the device were laddered. For the smart glasses, the most frequently mentioned factor was look-and-feel. For the smart watch, the availability of fitness apps was a key factor influencing adoption. In addition, factors which were linked to image, a personal value, were particularly important across both the student and working groups. This research provides support for the usefulness of the laddering approach to data collection and analysis, and provides some insight into key design criteria to better fit users’ needs and interests.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Apurva Adapa

Apurva Adapa received a Master’s degree in Information Science and Technology with a specialization and Graduate Certificate in Human–Computer Interaction from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in May 2016. She is currently working as an Analyst (Digital Marketing) in Super Micro Computer, Inc. in San Jose, California.

Fiona Fui-Hoon Nah

Fiona Fui-Hoon Nah is a Professor of Business and Information Technology at the Missouri University of Science and Technology. Her research interests include human–computer interaction, virtual communities, and collaboration, cybersecurity, and neuro-IS. She is a co-Founder of the Association for Information Systems Special Interest Group on Human–Computer Interaction (SIGHCI).

Richard H. Hall

Richard H. Hall is a Professor of Business and Information Technology and Director of the Center for Technology Enhanced Learning at the Missouri University of Science and Technology. His research interests include human–computer interaction, with a particular focus on learning technologies, and the impact of technology on happiness and well-being.

Keng Siau

Keng Siau is Chair of the Department of Business and Information Technology at the Missouri University of Science and Technology. He is the Editor-in-Chief for Journal of Database Management and the North America Regional Editor for Requirements Engineering journal.

Samuel N. Smith

Samuel N. Smith received a Bachelor’s degree in Information Science and Technology and a minor in Business Analytics and Data Science from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in May 2017. He is currently working as an Associate Software Developer for a healthcare company in St. Louis, Missouri.