Extending the technology acceptance model with task-technology fit constructs

During the past decade, two significant models of information technology (T T) utilization behavior have emerged in the MIS literature. These two model s, the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the task-technology fit model (TTF), provide a much needed theoretical basis for exploring the factors th at explain software utilization and its link with user performance. These m odels offer different, though overlapping perspectives on utilization behav ior. TAM focuses on attitudes toward using a particular IT which users deve lop based on perceived usefulness and ease of use of the IT. TTF focuses on the match between user task needs and the available functionality of the I T. While each of these models offers significant explanatory power, a model that integrates constructs from both may offer a significant improvement o ver either model alone. We discuss the theoretical foundation of both these models and present a theoretical rationale for an integrated model. The re sult is an extension of TAM to include TTF constructs. We test our integrat ed TT utilization model using path analysis. Our integrated model provides more explanatory power than either model alone. Research using the integrat ed model should lead to a better understanding of choices about using IT. ( C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.