Determinantes da aceitação de tecnologias corporativas móveis no contexto administrativo público: uma abordagem multimodelo (TAM/UTAUT) na CAGEPA

Abstract

This study analyzes the determining factors of the acceptance and use of a corporate mobile attendance control technology by public servants of the Companhia de Água e Esgotos da Paraíba (CAGEPA), grounded in the conceptual integration of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The research investigates functional behavior regarding the introduction of a geolocation-based corporate mobile application as an alternative channel to the use of traditional physical time clocks. Methodologically, it adopts a quantitative, descriptive, and causal approach, configured as a cross-sectional case study operationalized through an electronic survey. The raw dataset yielded 304 questionnaires, consolidating a validated final sample of 287 respondents (N = 287) after data screening and the removal of straight-lining responses in R Studio. The demographic profile revealed a predominantly experienced workforce, with 76.8% of public servants having over a decade of institutional tenure at the organization. The internal consistency of the theoretical scales was confirmed by Cronbach's Alpha reliability coefficient (α ≥ 0,72). Linear model residuals underwent classic Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) assumptions diagnostics, confirming satisfactory parameters of homoscedasticity, normality, and the absence of influential outliers. Inferences from multiple linear regression analysis revealed that Perceived General Usefulness is the primary vector and sole predictor with strong statistical significance (β = 0,351; p < 0,001) explaining the technical staff's favorable attitude toward the potential decommissioning of legacy physical infrastructure, driven by practical time savings and the elimination of operational queues. A conceptual paradox in information systems also emerged: Perceived Ease of Use showed no statistically significant impact (β = -0,008; p = 0,902) on functional reaction, highlighting the pragmatism of public servants in tolerating complex interfaces and systemic instabilities as long as the required bureaucratic utility is delivered. It is concluded that acceptance of the mobile channel is well consolidated, registering a 74.2% favorable attitude regarding the hypothetical scenario of replacing physical time clocks. The empirical evidence provides insights to align corporate technology governance with active institutional sustainability principles established in Goal 16 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDG 16).