An empirical study of e-banking in Cameroon

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the factors which can affect the adoption of e-banking in Cameroon. To conduct that research, we tried to understand how demographic characteristics, attitudes and social influences impact on the customer’s decision to adopt e-banking; to investigate barriers and challenges with regard to the adoption of e-banking; to identify the differences in perception regarding e-banking between e-banking users and non-users; and to determine whether or not e-banking offers more opportunities in comparison with the traditional banking system used in Cameroon. Through an in-depth interview and questionnaires filled by bank’s customer, the factors influencing the adoption of e-banking in Cameroon were identified. These were demographic factors such as age, income, educational level and occupation. Psychological factors such as perceptions of relative advantage, compatibility, complexity and perceived cost were also identified. Perceived risk was found to have a negative impact on e-banking adoption. A measure of the relationship between the factors and the adoption of e-banking was determined. Negative perceptions and attitudes influence the decision-making process, resulting in negative consumer behaviour outcomes. Social influences, including the opinions of friends, parents and colleagues, were found to have an influence on e-banking adoption. With regard to the research objectives that identified factors discouraging customers from using e-banking, the lack of trust, lack of information, lack of knowledge and perceived risk by non-users hindered the adoption of e-banking. Challenges and barriers with regard to e-banking adoption were also identified, namely resistance to change by bank employees, lack of knowledge, absence of e-laws and legislation for e-banking, absence of a proper telecommunications infrastructure and shortage of IT training. This research is especially valuable for the Cameroon banking industry, as the findings will provide insights for banks interested in implementing e-banking strategies.