Quantifying adoption: A SEM study of quantum software technology in software development

Context: Quantum software technologies (QSTs) are emerging as a promising field, offering developers powerful tools to push the boundaries of software innovation. However, a technology that is not adopted remains nothing more than an untapped potential. Despite increasing interest in integrating quantum computing into software development, significant barriers still hinder its widespread adoption. While much of the existing research has focused on technical advancements, the socio-technical factors influencing adoption have been largely overlooked. Understanding these factors could provide managers and engineers with actionable insights to facilitate adoption, as developers’ perceptions and attitudes can be shaped and managed more readily than technological advancements. Objective: This study addresses this gap by statistically analyzing the determinants of QST adoption among software professionals. Method: Leveraging established adoption theories (UTAUT2 and Diffusion of Innovation) and incorporating perceived trust, data were collected using validated questionnaires and analyzed with Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Results: Findings indicate that compatibility, personal innovativeness, and performance expectancy are key drivers of adoption, while financial concerns negatively influence it. Moreover, workplace support and habitual exposure emerged as critical enablers of actual usage, emphasizing the importance of organizational interventions. Conclusions: These insights offer practical guidance for companies developing and maintaining QSTs into their workflows while identifying new research directions, including barriers to adoption, long-term engagement, and financial considerations.