Internet of Things: understanding trust in techno-service systems

Abstract

The characteristics of the Internet of Things (IoT) are such that traditional models of trust developed within interpersonal, organisational, virtual and Information Systems (IS) contexts may be inappropriate for use within an IoT context. The purpose of this study is to offer empirically generated understandings of trust within potential IoT applications. In an attempt to capture and communicate the complex and all-pervading but frequently inconspicuous nature of ubiquitous technologies within potential IoT techno-systems, propositions developed are investigated using a novel mixed methods research design combining a videographic projective technique with a quantitative survey, sampling 1200 respondents. Research findings suggest the dimensionality of trust may vary according to the IoT techno-service context being assessed. The contribution of this paper is twofold. First, and from a theoretical perspective, it offers a conceptual foundation for trust dimensions within potential IoT applications based upon empirical evaluation. Second, and from a pragmatic perspective, the paper offers insights into how findings may guide practitioners in developing appropriate trust management systems dependent upon the characteristics of particular techno-service contexts.