Use of delivery drones for humanitarian operations: analysis of adoption barriers among logistics service providers from the technology acceptance model perspective

Delivery drones are yet to be adopted as a systematic delivery system for humanitarian operations but have the potential to substantially increase the efficiency and effectiveness of future delivery options. Thus, we analyse the impact of factors affecting the adoption of delivery drones by logistics service providers for humanitarian operations. A conceptual model of potential barriers to adoption and development is created using the Technology Acceptance Model theory involving security, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and attitude as factors that affect the intention to use. We validate the model using empirical data collected from 103 respondents by the 10 leading logistics firms located in China between May and August 2016. through a survey to examine factors currently affecting the intention/non-intention to adopt delivery drones. The results show that ease of use and addressing key security considerations about the drone, the delivery package and the recipient are crucial for adopting the technology as a specialized delivery option for logistics service providers. This is the first study of its kind and contributes to understanding the operational, supply chain and behavioural factors in the adoption of drones by logistics services providers for humanitarian operations.

Automated summary

Delivery drones are not yet widely used for humanitarian operations, but have the potential to greatly improve future delivery options. This study analyses the factors influencing the adoption of delivery drones by logistics service providers for humanitarian operations. A conceptual model is created using the Technology Acceptance Model theory, and empirical data from 103 respondents is collected to validate the model. The results show that ease of use and addressing security concerns are crucial for adopting delivery drones as a specialized delivery option for logistics service providers.