This paper is inspired by the growing accessibility of AI tools, whose adoption and resulting benefits remain uncertain. As an initial step, it identifies key issues concerning AI tools in general, the human role in relation to AI tools, and the application of AI tools within operations management. It further discusses how these issues may act as barriers to employee acceptance and utilization of AI tools. Drawing from this discussion, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) is applied as a theoretical framework to suggest that individual traits, technological attributes, environmental factors, and targeted interventions represent promising avenues for research. Such studies could not only enrich the existing literature on technology adoption—especially regarding AI tools—but also assist organizations in effectively encouraging their successful implementation.
*Anushka Malavade, Vaibhavi Sarda, Tanvi Dond, Priyanka Gaikwad (Wed,) studied this question.