As smart community platforms (SCPs) become integral to digital governance, understanding the factors influencing user persistence is increasingly important. This study develops an integrated framework by synthesizing the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT). Data from 515 valid questionnaires collected in China were analyzed using a dual-stage PLS-SEM and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) approach. The results indicate that while Performance Expectancy and Relative Advantage form the cognitive basis of utility, Satisfaction serves as the pivotal affective driver for continued use. Notably, the ANN analysis reveals a non-linear importance hierarchy, identifying Social Influence as a more potent factor than traditional linear estimates suggest. This study contributes to the literature by moving beyond simple linear assumptions to provide a deeper understanding of user retention, offering practical strategies for the long-term sustainability of smart community engagement.
Wáng et al. (Thu,) studied this question.