Abstract:

Within the context of rapidly evolving technologies, collaborative robots (cobots) are revolutionizing the manufacturing processes of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and transforming the entire work structure. Several studies have highlighted cobots from an individual level; however, little attention has been given to empirical research that focuses on adopting cobots from an organisational perspective in SMEs. This paper aims to focus extensively on understanding technology/innovation factors that may potentially affect Cobot's adoption process within the firm. Based on the Diffusion of Innovation theory (DOI), the paper utilised the five technology/innovation factors and followed a semi-structured interview method with decision-makers in Australian manufacturing SMEs. Results discovered the relative advantage revealed is the most significant factor. The other three factors, compatibility, trialability and complexity, were noted to have a lower impact, and the final factor, observability, had an unclear influence. This paper also discussed the mechanisms underlying these impacts and the potential implications.