Unraveling the aspects of metaverse adoption in the supply chains of small-scale enterprises with TOE framework

Purpose The purpose of the paper is to systematically identify and analyze the key factors influencing Metaverse adoption within the supply chains of small enterprises. It aims to employ the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework to methodically assess the technological, organizational and environmental factors impacting adoption. Additionally, the paper seeks to unravel the interconnectedness between enablers and barriers to provide insights that can inform strategies for enhancing Metaverse adoption among small-scale enterprises. Design/methodology/approach The paper is a structured literature review to reveal major influencing factors for the adoption of the Metaverse. In terms of the theoretical background, this study bases itself on the TOE framework and employs common factor analysis (CFA) to both establish barriers and enablers toward its adoption. Using interpretive structural modelling (ISM) the paper uncover interrelation complexities between variables. Further richness to such insights was attained with the help of interviews carried out with service providers who have been dealing in Metaverse, giving further clarity regarding the variables adopted that pertain to micro and small enterprises. Findings The study identifies important enablers, such as virtual and augmented reality in addition to important barriers, such as technological challenges in adopting the Metaverse in the context of small business supply chains. These factors have been explored with the help of the complex interconnections revealed using ISM within the framework of TOE and CFA. This therefore puts a great deal of managerial relevance in terms of organizational support and technological investment to enable integration and provide strategic insights towards this transformative technology in managing the supply chain and similar disciplines. Originality/value This paper demonstrates innovation through the proper application of the TOE framework and CFA of Metaverse adoption within supply chains of small enterprises to classify and analyze the salient enablers as well as barriers. The above contribution offers a fresh and new perspective on the complex sets of factors that influence the Metaverse adoption decision, coupled with the depth added by an application of ISM to the intricate relationships among them. Noting the sample size, this study is rich to the field by providing valuable insight into Metaverse adoption. The findings greatly contribute to future research work and guide practical applications for new emerging areas like supply chain management.