Key theories and research models for assessing factors affecting the adoption of traceability technologies in agriculture: A systematic literature review

Abstract

This study identifies and measures the factors influencing the adoption of traceability technologies in agriculture to inform policymakers, government authorities, and enterprises in developing digital-transformation strategies for sustainable agriculture. Using a systematic literature review (SLR) method, publications from indexed Scopus and Web of Science between January 1, 2019 and June 30, 2025 were synthesized. The review focuses on prominent theoretical frameworks, including the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI), Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), and Technology - Organization - Environment (TOE) framework. By evaluating the relative strengths and limitations of these theories and models, the study proposes the TOE framework as the most comprehensive foundation for subsequent qualitative and quantitative research. Furthermore, the findings highlighted the potential for integrating these frameworks to identify critical determinants and establish a robust model for measuring agricultural traceability technology adoption, specifically tailored to the Vietnamese context.