A Decision Framework for Selecting Technology Acceptance and Use Models: TAM, TAM2, TAM3, UTAUT, and UTAUT2

Abstract

Introduction: Models such as TAM, TAM2, TAM3, UTAUT, and UTAUT2 underpin a substantial share of research on technology acceptance and use in HCI and related fields. Although they differ in terms of constructs and conditions of application, their selection is often not conceptually justified, frequently driven by pragmatic considerations, with implications for theoretical consistency and cross-study comparability. Objective: To propose a decision framework that guides the selection among the five models of the TAM/UTAUT lineage based on conceptual criteria derived from their structural differences. Methods: A conceptual, artifact-oriented approach was adopted, comprising comparative analysis of the models and critical review studies, derivation of conceptual dimensions, and formulation of operational decision criteria. Applicability was demonstrated through two contrasting research scenarios. Results: The framework articulates five analytical dimensions, 16 guiding questions, and descriptive suitability profiles for the models. The demonstration illustrated, in the two scenarios examined, its ability to identify misalignments between the declared model and the actual operationalization, as well as to confirm theoretical choices consistent with the conditions of the study.