Halek Mu’min, Denny Bernardus Kurnia Wahyudono, Thomas Stefanus Kaihatu
This investigation develops and validates Blockchain Utilization Capability as a novel construct fundamentally reconceptualizing complex enterprise technology adoption by addressing critical limitations in conventional frameworks assuming direct antecedent-intention relationships. Through cross-sectional survey methodology examining 300 Indonesian SMEs actively engaged with blockchain platforms, we integrate Technology-Organization-Environment Framework with Technology Acceptance Model, positioning capability as central mediating mechanism analyzed using PLS-SEM with bootstrapping procedures. Results reveal complete mediation configurations wherein organizational infrastructure, environmental pressures, technological features, perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use operate exclusively through capability development rather than directly influencing adoption intentions. Organizational dimensions demonstrate substantial effects on capability formation, while perceived ease of use exhibits paradoxical negative associations through suppression mechanisms, with the construct achieving superior predictive performance explaining considerable variance in adoption intentions. We introduce Capability-Mediated TAM, demonstrating perceptual beliefs require translation into organizational capabilities preceding complex technology adoption influence, bridging previously disconnected frameworks by revealing common capability-building pathways through which diverse antecedents operate, transforming TOE from descriptive taxonomy into dynamic process architecture. Findings establish that organizations should prioritize systematic capability development through phased approaches emphasizing organizational readiness, formal governance, and cross-functional integration preceding production implementations, recognizing capability building as essential rather than optional pathway toward blockchain adoption success.