Factors influencing the adoption of geological information in Swedish municipalities

A geological map includes a description (e.g., geological composition and structures) as well as an interpretation of materials (e.g., porosity or extraction capacity). Geological maps are pertinent to city planning, infrastructure projects and environmental impact assessments. While the maps are identified in the literature as beneficial to society, few have discussed the adoption of geological maps. By investigating factors influencing information adoption, one can identify barriers for potential users. We consider the literature on diffusion of innovation and discuss the effects of information being a so-called 'experience good,' which implies high opportunity costs and sunk costs. The framework is empirically tested on survey data collected from officials in Swedish municipalities. The results suggest that perceived usefulness and educational effort have the largest influence on the adoption decision. Furthermore, the results indicate that organizational effects exist on the working unit level, but there are no spatial interactions across municipal boundaries.