Abstract
This study investigates the numerous causes of open hardware (OH) adoption using a qualitative approach to evaluate narratives from 24 online podcasts. OH is a disruptive approach of technology creation and delivery that emphasizes open access to design files and collaborative creativity. Despite its expanding importance, OH adoption remains largely unexplored, particularly in terms of the many determinants affecting individuals and organizations. The research question that will guide this study is: “How do community narratives reflect the determinants of open-source hardware adoption?”. The analysis is framed by the constructs of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT 2), which include performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation, price value, and habit. Additionally, the findings revealed an emergent theme as “the educational value of OH” as a critical driver of adoption.
Key findings shows that performance expectancy, or the expected advantages of OH, drives adoption by providing cost savings, personalization, and social value. However, effort expectation identifies considerable obstacles such as steep learning curves and a need for more clear documentation and user-friendly technologies. Social influence emerged as a major motivator, with peer recommendations and community support playing critical roles in increasing adoption. Access to resources, dependable platforms, and infrastructure were highlighted as necessary yet unevenly dispersed, causing issues in underprivileged areas. Hedonic motivation underscored the joy and fulfillment derived from contributing to OH projects, fostering emotional connections and sustained engagement. The analysis of price value construct reveals as subtle variable with affordability being a significant driver again, but countered by worries related to long-term maintenance expenses of hardware. Furthermore, related to habit construct, while less apparent, it has revealed the importance of familiarity and regularity in diminishing perceived obstacles over time. The paper also underlines the educational value of OH, emphasizing its ability to democratize access to technology and cultivate STEM skills. OH serves as a platform for skill development and innovation, enriching its ecosystem by creating a competent and inventive user base.
These findings are offering actionable recommendations such as improving accessibility, strengthening community ties, addressing resource gaps, leveraging educational values, and managing costs transparently in order to have widespread adoption. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of OH adoption and provides a foundation for strategies aimed at enhancing its accessibility, sustainability, and impact of OH projects.