Predictive Factors of IT Systems Adoption by SME Employees in Developing Countries: Evidence from SME Employees in North Kivu, DRC

Abstract

This research aimed to identify the determinants of technology usage among SME employees in the North Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. We based our model on the Technology Acceptance Model. In addition to perceived usefulness and ease of use, the proposed model includes relative advantage as a predictor of technology usage. This study used the PLS-SEM method to test the proposed hypotheses from 247 responses. The results confirmed the hypotheses. The research findings demonstrate a positive relationship between perceived usefulness and use, perceived ease of use and use, and relative advantages and use of new technologies. Congolese SME managers can rely on these findings to highlight these key determinants in promoting technology usage among SMEs in a country where technology usage by businesses remains low. Keywords: Perceived ease of use, Perceived usefulness, Relative advantages, SI adoption, Technology.