Examining the Perceived Credibility of Online Opinions: Information Adoption in the Online Environment

The Internet has revolutionized the way people and consumers share and acquire knowledge. Web-based technologies have created numerous opportunities for electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) communication and online interpersonal influence. This phenomenon impacts online retailers as this easily accessible information could greatly affect the online consumption decision. It is worthwhile to examine the extent to which opinion seekers are willing to accept and adopt online comments and which factors encourage adoption. This research investigates the factors affecting information adoption of online opinion seekers in online forums, based on the information adoption model. The model is then tested quantitatively by using a sample of 154 users who have experience within the online community, Openrice.com. Users were required to complete a survey regarding comments taken from the virtual sharing platform. The data reflected several elements that determined users´ adoption level. The results provide support to the research model. Implications for both researchers and practitioners are provided.