Introduction to the Special Issue: Mobile Commerce Applications

With the rapid proliferation of mobile devices, including mobile phones, PDAs, and handheld computers, mobile commerce is widely considered to be a driving force for next-generation e-commerce. Many attempted m-commerce applications have failed to meet expectations, however, with the notable exceptions of I-Mode in Japan and the explosive growth of Short Messaging Service in China. It is important to understand why promising technologies fail and what factors contribute to their failure. This paper proposes a fit-viability framework for assessing the likely success or failure of m-commerce applications. For fit, criteria for measurement are identified based on task-technology fit theory. For viability, financial and managerial criteria are identified. The papers in this Special Issue address factors related to the framework, and m-commerce applications in procurement and travel agencies, to demonstrate its value.