Task-Technology Fit in Manufacturing: Examining Human-Machine Symbiosis Through a Configurational Approach

Abstract

With the last few years seeing an increased introduction of technological innovations in factories, one of the most pressing issues is how these technologies can be deployed to optimally support the activities of professionals that are actually utilizing them. Despite heavy investments in novel technologies, there are often negative consequences for the human factor, particularly when there is a lack of alignment between the task that it is used towards and the fit in terms of human training and the needs it is targeted to fulfil. In this research we build on the Task-technology Fit theory and a sample of 182 professionals working in Norway and explore the configurations of elements that drive positive impacts when introducing digital technologies to support factory work. We analyze data through a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method and demonstrate that there are several different combinations of conditions that can deliver positive impacts.