Strategies for revitalization for intelligent robot industry in Korea based on structural equation model

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of the government's role in boosting the utilization of intelligent robot by considering government support policies along with various other factors, which are potentially influential. This type of investigation will contribute for developing a domestic robot infrastructure in Korea. Design/methodology/approach – A structural equation model is used to investigate the relation among various factors that have a potential influence on robot utilization. In addition, the Robot Utilization Expectation Index of various user groups is developed. The results obtained from the proposed model are expected to provide important feedback information for productivity innovation at the level of both the individual user and the company. Findings – According to the results, the robot function has the highest direct effect on the Robot Utilization Expectation, but excessive policies implemented simultaneously by the Korean Government are not effective on revitalization of the robot industry. It is interesting to note that government policy has the highest indirect effect on robot utilization expectation. Therefore, it is proposed that the government should act as a mediator and focus on fewer policies rather than enforcing various policies simultaneously by different organizations. Research limitations/implications – Although, a focused group consisting of those who are knowledgeable about intelligent robots is surveyed, a limitation to the paper lies in analyzing a relatively small data set. An extended survey with a larger data set remains for future study. Practical implications – The paper includes implications, which contribute towards stimulating the robot industry in Korea. Originality/value – The proposed model is expected to provide important information for productivity innovation at both the individual user and company levels.