Bus driver's technology acceptance for driving assistants

Purpose: According to recent studies, many road accidents could be avoided using driving assistance systems. However, the introduction of increased levels of technology in workplaces is often met with opposition. The paper, therefore, analyzes the bus drivers’ acceptance of assistance systems and provides recommendations for increasing acceptance. Methodology: Using a mixed-method research approach of conducting interviews (N = 8) and an online survey among professional bus drivers (N = 81), we test a theoretical framework based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT) with qualitative content analysis and multiple regression analyses. Findings: The interview findings suggest that TAM and IDT provide a suitable theoretical grounding for analyzing the bus driver's acceptance. The quantitative results confirm a positive attitude towards digital transformation processes at the bus driver's cab while, among others, the functionality and perceived usefulness experienced by the drivers can facilitate acceptance. Originality: The paper analyzes the use of assistance systems in the workplace of professional bus drivers from various perspectives. Concerning technology acceptance, the present study contributes to a better understanding of underlying acceptance mechanisms in professional bus driving.