User-centric dimensions of trust and acceptance in blockchain adoption for land administration systems: A systematic literature review

Blockchain technology has emerged as a disruptive force with the potential to support the securitisation of tenure in land administration systems (LAS). Like in every new and emerging technologies, ‘trust and acceptance’ play significant roles in stakeholders’ intention to either embrace or reject the adoption of blockchain technology in LAS. While previous research on the topic has placed considerable attention on the potential of adopting blockchain for improving LAS, limited attention has been placed on understanding the user-centric dimensions of trust and acceptance. To address this gap, this study conducted a systematic literature review on the user-centric dimensions of trust and acceptance influencing blockchain technology adoption for LAS. The analysis employs two complementary theoretical frameworks: the Multilevel Trust (MLT) framework to categorize trust factors, and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to guide the analysis of acceptance factors. The results categorize the key factors influencing stakeholders' trust into three dimensions: trust in technology (data privacy and control, security), trust in administrative processes (traceability and transparency), and trust in institutions (regulation and legal compliance), while performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions emerge as the key factors that influence stakeholders’ acceptance. Drawing upon these findings, a conceptual framework was developed to illustrate the interrelationship between the trust and acceptance factors influencing stakeholders’ intention to either embrace or reject the adoption of blockchain for LAS. This research contributes to the literature on emerging technology adoption for LAS, which may help land administration stakeholders take suitable measures to address stakeholder concerns and thereby promote blockchain technology adoption.