Facilities management technology adoption—to do or not to do. A critical question for facility managers. A 21st century problem calls for 21st century solutions. However, sometimes the bias of past experience is the driving factor.
Technology adoption studies are relatively new in Malaysia. Especially in the built environment, has seen slow change over the past decades and stubbornly resist change.
Technology adoption model
Technology adoption is mostly behavioural science. The theory of reasoned (TRA) is the fundamental model developed by Fishbein and Eijen in 1967, and the technology adoption model that came after it later became the basis of profound work by Davis through the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Roger’s The Law of Diffusion of Innovations.
The goal of TRA is to comprehend an individual’s voluntary behaviour by investigating the underlying basic motivation to perform an action, and in this context, it is to accept a way of working with new technology tools or a new lifestyle by adapting to certain technology.
A lot of organisations make mistakes by putting much effort and resources into frameworks and strategic planning that discuss how technology is being connected together, the shiniest toys available, the nicest trendy tech keywords being thrown here and there, and sidelining the most important part of the equations, people.
Davis’ famous work for TAM has been fundamental in a lot of innovations. The success of any technology adoptions relies a lot on the perceptions of users towards the technology. Hence, if we look closely, Ease of Use (user friendly) and Usefulness (perceptions of value) will have a great impact on the changes that anyone can bring to any organisation.
Key challenges to technology adoption
Yes, it is as difficult. As simple as it seems, since every industry or segment of the economy is unique, and most significantly, the people associated with that particular industry are, of course, different. Behavioural change goes a long way.
I truly understand when some in my circles vented their frustrations with what is happening in some of the industry segments in Malaysia. It is warranted. Although it is also beneficial to look at the hard facts, where we are right now.
Referring to Roger’s work below, where do you think your industry, organisation, or company is right now? Having a deeper understanding of where we are right now is a good start for technology adoptions. So, the answer for technology adoption is always to do it, but the real hard question is, where to start? The technology adoption for facilities management in Malaysia is still long way to go.
p/s: Perhaps this article can be helpful to those interested in technology adoption.