How employees accept robots at work

Identifier:  TDX:4281

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX4281

Authors:  Montero Vilela, Juan Andres

Abstract:
This research analyzes the acceptance of robotics at work by employees. Robotization represents an opportunity for companies to improve their overall performance. However, this automation process may represent a challenge if it is not properly integrated within the organization and if potential risks are not minimized. In relation to the general trend towards automation, there are external and internal conditions that organizations need to manage simultaneously in accordance with their stakeholders’ expectations. This research considers employees both as users of these robots at work and as key stakeholders to shed light on how to manage robotization most effectively, from an organizational perspective. Based on the CAN Model, this research provides additional input about the acceptance of robots at work. For this purpose, data from 422 participants from different geographies, wide range of profiles and from numerous industries have been collected. The findings from this research confirmed elements of the CAN model, showing that employee’s attitude has a positive relationship with the intention to work with robots, and that attitude is positively influenced by the performance expectancy, perceive risk and positive emotions of employees.  Based on these findings, in addition, it has been addressed an analysis, to determine implications on innovation, workplace and performance management. According to these findings, some high-level recommendations for managers, researchers and other stakeholders are shared in an attempt to illustrate that organizations should address specific managerial strategies to gain greater acceptance by employees regarding the implementation of robotization, which should be translated into employee’s attraction, retention, and engagement.