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

Abstract

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.

Application of Drones in Humanitarian Relief: A Review of State of Art and Recent Advances and Recommendations

“…Based on the results of this study, outlined in the literature review, the review of drone applications, and the SWOT analysis, it becomes imperative to discuss actionable recommendations that address potential strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats posed by drones in humanitarian contexts. These recommendations can be grouped into specific themes, namely, infrastructure and training; technological advances; regulatory framework and public awareness; health and emergency response; and environmental and economic considerations (27,(85)(86)(87)(88)(89)(90)(91)(92)(93)(94)(95)(96).…”

“…Existing studies heavily discuss the environmental and economic aspects of drone operations and highlight similar conclusions. For example, Rejeb et al (88) suggest future research to explore cost-effective models of drone operations, Edwards et al (93) consider both delivery and cost-efficiency in their drone adoption research model, and Heiets et al (94) discuss an evidence-based approach for the safe and cost-effective utilization of drones. In addition, other researchers showcased utilizing drones' capabilities in capturing high quality data to reduce cost associated with engineering projects or traffic crashes.…”