Abstract:
The tourism sector in Batticaloa has yet to fully embrace the use of smart technology,
which may hinder its competitiveness and growth. This study aims to identify,' the
factors that influence hoteliers' intention to use smart technology in their businesses in
Batticaloa. A survey was conducted among 115 hoteliers. The primary objective of this
study is to examine the Technology Readiness Index (TRI) model with smart
technology usage intention in the tourism sector in Batticaloa. This study aims to
identify the level of optimism, innovativeness, insecurity, discomfort, and smart
technology usage intention among hoteliers in Batticaloa, and to explore the
relationships between these variables. Additionally, the study aims to identify the
impact of optimism, innovativeness, insecurity, and discomfort on smart technology
usage intention in the tourism sector in Batticaloa.
The independent variables in this study are optimism, innovativeness, insecurity, and
discomfort, while the dependent variable is smart technology usage intention.
Optimism & innovativeness are positive variables, while insecurity and discomfort are
negative variables. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among hoteliers in the
tourism sector in Batticaloa, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics,
Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis.
The results of the study show that hoteliers in Batticaloa have a high level of optimism,
innovativeness, and smart technology usage intention, indicating that they are open to
adopting smart technology in their businesses. However, there is also a moderate level
of discomfort, suggesting that some hoteliers may feel uneasy or uncertain about using
new technology. The study found a significant relationship between optimism,
innovativeness, insecurity, discomfort, and smart technology usage intention. Optimism
and innovativeness have a positive effect on smart technology usage intention, while
insecurity and discomfort have a negative effect. The study suggests that fostering a
positive attitude toward technology and encouraging innovative practices can increase
smart technology usage intention in the tourism sector in Batticaloa
