The Adoption of Digital Work in Developing Countries: Systematic Mapping of Studies

Abstract

This paper explores the current challenges, motivations for adopting digital work, the technology acceptance models/ theories used to research digital work and the benefits of adopting digital work identified in primary research articles. Digital work is one of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) products and is perceived to be a solution to addressing unemployment. There is a need to find a method to address unemployment in developing countries because of the socio-economic challenges. The methodology of this study is a systematic mapping of papers. Identifying gaps in the literature for future research in web-based digital work in developing countries. Through the mapping of the selected articles, the paper identified the challenges, drivers and benefits of web-based digital work. The gap identified is that the research must be conducted to create a framework to adopt web-based digital work. There is a need for research on how small companies in developing countries can benefit from outsourcing digital workers. Research to create frameworks to promote the adoption of digital work in developing countries and the companies within developing countries.