Deriving Factors Influencing the Acceptance of Pad Phones by Using the DNP Based UTAUT2 Framework

The factors influencing acceptances of novel information technology (IT) devices can serve as the basis for product development strategy definitions. However, it is always not an easy job to predict consumer behaviors versus novel technology in general, and disruptive or radical innovation products in special. The Pad Phone, a disruptive innovative consumer electronic device integrating both a tablet personal computer (PC) as well as a smart phone, is a typical disruptive innovative device which consumer behaviors are difficult to predict based on mass customers' opinions. In order to derive key factors influencing users' acceptance of Pad Phones, the second generation Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) will be introduced as the theoretic framework. Based on opinions being derived from lead users, the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) based Network Process (DNP) will be introduced for constructing the influence s between the factors in UTAUT2; and then, weights being associated with the factors can be derived accordingly. Based on the empirical study results, the social influence plays the dominant role in facilitating conditions. The habit and hedonic motivation are essential factors influencing customers' acceptances of Pad Phones. The empirical study results can serve as a basis for R&D and marketing strategy definitions for IT companies. Moreover, the UTAUT2 based analytic framework can be used for deriving factors influencing users' acceptances of disruptive innovations in the future.