Exploring the Influential Determinants of IoT Adoption in the U.S. Manufacturing Sector

Manufacturers have been hesitant to adopt the Internet of Things (IoT) due to a lack of understanding of factors related to IoT adoption. This correlational study uses a combination of diffusion of innovation theory and technology–organization–environment framework to examine if a relationship exists between relative advantage, complexity, compatibility, technology readiness, top management support, firm size, competitive pressure, and regulatory support and intent to adopt IoT in U.S. manufacturing organizations. A sample of 168 IT leaders was used. Multiple regression analysis indicated significant relationships between intent to adopt IoT and three variables: technology readiness, top management support, and competitive pressure. The model was able to predict approximately 44% of the variation of IT leaders’ intent to adopt IoT. The results can help IT leaders in the U.S. manufacturing sectors understand the factors that influence IoT adoption.