Analyzing barriers of e-Procurement adoption: Use of Total Interpretive Structural Model

Abstract

e-Procurement deals with electronic means to carryout construction procurement processes, such as tendering and procurement for projects (Ibem & Laryea, 2017), and it entails crucial processes for initiating and executing projects (Costa & Tavares, 2013). e Procurement improves efficiency in resource utilization and waste reduction by decreasing paperwork, increasing transparency, and minimizing errors (Singh & Chan, 2022). Several studies have been conducted to identify barriers to e-Procurement adoption but developing a robust framework to explore interrelationships between barriers is, however, comparatively lacking. By supporting the use of mixed-methods for Total Interpretive Structure Model Framework development to explore interrelationships, this study adds to the body of literature on e-Procurement. Previous studies have shown that the adoption of electronic procurement practices has high implementation challenges in developing countries. To close this gap, the paper first conducts a systematic review of the literature on e-Procurement barriers. Then utilizes Delphi Technique to formulate survey based on expert’s opinion; ranks barriers as perceived by Contractors and Procuring Agencies respectively on basis of Relative Importance Index (RII) using survey conducted. Further it carries out Factor Analysis (EFA & CFA) to demonstrate the statistical validity of constructs to be utilized in finally developing the framework on e-Procurement barriers using TISM, MICMAC analysis.