Analyzing the Factors Influencing the Intention to Adopt Autonomous Ships Using the TOE Framework and DOI Theory

Abstract

The development and operation of autonomous ships are spotlighted as a next-generation technology that will provide new benefits for the maritime business during the fourth industrial revolution. To expand the adoption of autonomous ships, the much more interest of the nation and the industries will have to be changed to actual adoption in shipping companies. For this, it is judged that research to identify the factors impacting the adoption intention of autonomous ships should be preceded. However, most studies on autonomous ships have focused on developing the technology, revising the law, establishing policies, and managing human resources, with few studies on influencing factors in the adoption of autonomous ships. A model, to identify the factors that impact the intention to the adoption of autonomous ships, based on the theory of diffusion of innovation and the TOE framework was developed. The suggested model was verified through empirical analysis targeting the shipping companies and the marine industries in Korea. As the result of this study, it was found that top management support, financial slack, and competitive intensity significantly impacted the intention to adopt autonomous ships. Additionally, it was revealed that the overall awareness of autonomous ships among Korean shipping companies is poor.