Understanding the Acceptance of Digital Tools within an Air Force Environment using the UTAUT2 Model
Date of Award
3-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Department
Department of Operational Sciences
First Advisor
Ian M. Slazinik, PhD
Abstract
This research paper explores factors influencing digital tool adoption in a military context, using a modified UTAUT2 model with the inclusion of Military Status as a moderating factor. The study examines the moderating effects of Military Status on Social Influence towards Behavioral Intention and Behavioral Intention on Use Behavior. Data was collected through a Likert-scale survey from respondents across multiple Department of the Air Force (DAF) organizations. Findings revealed Social Influence had the potential to positively influence Behavioral Intention to use digital tools, but military experience did not significantly moderate this relationship. However, past experience with the legacy tool and the age of the respondents did exert noticeable change on how different constructs influenced Behavioral Intention and Use Behavior. Respondents with prior tool experience found Habit to be a positive contributor to Behavioral Intention and Use Behavior, while those without prior experience emphasized Hedonic Motivation as their strongest influencing factor of Behavioral Intention. Both groups saw Habit as a positive construct towards Use Behavior. Age also influenced adoption behaviors: Behavioral Intention was stronger among older respondents when Facilitating Conditions were present, but the opposite effect was true for younger respondents. Habit positively impacted Use Behavior for younger respondents, with older respondents being indifferent. The target organizations, consisting primarily of government civilians, showed minimal differences between respondents with prior military experience and those without. Meanwhile, age and experience with a technology remain relevant even in a DAF environment.
AFIT Designator
AFIT-ENS-MS-25-M-177
Recommended Citation
Edwards, Britton J., "Understanding the Acceptance of Digital Tools within an Air Force Environment using the UTAUT2 Model" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 8268.
https://scholar.afit.edu/etd/8268
Included in
Operations and Supply Chain Management Commons, Operations Research, Systems Engineering and Industrial Engineering Commons
Comments
An embargo was observed for this posting.
Approved for public release, Distribution Unlimited. PA Case Number 88ABW-2025-0364