ABSTRACT
Abstract: This paper examines the relationship between human-computer interaction (HCI) research and information systems research on technology acceptance. The technology acceptance model (TAM) is a motivational model of the user that traces the effects of system design characteristics (functionality and interface features), through perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, on people’s intentions to use the system. TAM was introduced in the 1980s to predict and explain user acceptance of new information systems based on usage intentions of potential users measured after a brief trial experience using a prototype of the new system. Influenced by early HCI research, TAM extends traditional user interface testing methodologies, which emphasize objective usability criteria (e.g., task performance times and error rates). Whereas HCI emphasizes how best to design the user interface to improve task performance when using a system, TAM focuses on how to increase people’s willingness to use a system. Since both user acceptance and task performance are vital to a system’s success, HCI and TAM offer complementary perspectives. The paper concludes by discussing the evolution and current status of TAM research. Keywords: Technology Acceptance Model, Information-System Usefulness, Ease of Use, Usability, User Acceptance
The purpose of this brief commentary is to introduce researchers to the stream of research on user acceptance of information technology and explain its relationship to HCI research. Specifically, I provide a personal reflection on the inspiration for and the development and evolution of the technology acceptance model (TAM).
