Which Factors Determine the Adoption of the Internet of Things? Impacts and Benefits

Abstract This paper provides first econometric evidence on the determinants of the Internet of Things among firms and on potential performance impacts. The analysis is based on representative firm-level data from 874 German firms. A probit model and an instrumental variable regression serve as econometric approach. The results reveal that especially collaboration platforms and B2B e-commerce increase the propensity to use the Internet of Things. The results further indicate that product innovation is highest for firms jointly using the Internet of Things and collaboration platforms while a reduction of the workforce is also highest in this case. In contrast, there is no evidence for a potential impact on sales development.