An empirical study of product differences in consumers' E-commerce adoption behavior

Abstract

This research investigates product differences in the overlooked context of individuals' adoption of E-commerce. A theoretical model of consumers' E-commerce adoption intention is developed and tested. Consumers' behavior is studied. The results show that when considering purchasing goods, as compared to services, over the Internet, consumers' E-commerce adoption decisions are more strongly influenced by their perceptions of risk. In contrast, when considering purchasing services over the Internet, consumers' E-commerce adoption decisions are more strongly influenced by their perceptions of ease of use. Specific recommendations for practitioners regarding the adoption of E-commerce in product (physical goods) businesses and service businesses are also offered. © 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.