Understanding Intention to Use Alternative Dispute Resolution in Construction Projects: Framework Based on Technology Acceptance Model

Abstract

This study developed and tested a conceptual model based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) that explained selection behavior in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods in construction projects. In this study, selection behavior was conceptualized as the behavioral intention to use ADR. Intention is the culmination of the decision-making process. The proposed model was empirically tested with partial least-squares (PLS) modeling from 101 ADR decision makers specializing in building and civil engineering works. A total of 37 respondents were having disputes, while 64 respondents were negotiating claims. The results from the PLS modeling showed that the decision-making process in ADR use was planned and reasoned when a dispute occurred. When a dispute occurred, intention (INT) was predicted by both perceived relative advantage (PA) and attitude (ATT). However, the decision-making process was less deliberative in the negotiation phase. Before negotiation fails, INT was solely predicted by ATT. The paper postulates several ways to intervene in the behavioral intention to use of ADR effectively through the influence of ATT at the end of the paper.