Understanding SMART technology acceptance in social housing

Description

The USW Housing & Health Research Network (HHRN) hosted a sector-wide event examining the challenges and opportunities surrounding technology acceptance in social housing. Funded by **XXX**, this event represented the culmination of a broader research project exploring the factors that shape the adoption of new technologies in this context.

Bringing together stakeholders from across the housing ecosystem—including policymakers, registered social landlords (RSLs), and technology and innovation companies—the event provided a space for critical discussion on the social, psychological, and policy dimensions of technological change in the sector.

The programme was developed, led and delivered by USW HHRN menbers and Prof Phil Morgan (Cardiff University) who provided expert insights into the evidence base and strategic considerations surrounding technology implementation in housing. In addition to these discussions, workshops facilitated:

Value Stream Mapping – Stakeholders examined the end-to-end process of embedding technology in social housing, identifying what has worked well, where key barriers and facilitators exist, and where good practice can be found. This exercise helped build a shared understanding of the broader system within which technological change occurs.

Tool Development and Refinement – Participants engaged in testing and refining a tool designed to assist frontline staff in understanding how best to provide information to tenants to enhance technology acceptance. This collaborative process significantly improved the tool’s design and refined the methods of engagement, ensuring greater practical relevance for those working directly with tenants.

This event highlighted the complex interplay between policy, organisational practice, and tenant experience in the adoption of new technologies. By fostering dialogue across disciplines and sectors, it contributed to ongoing efforts to ensure that technological innovation in social housing is inclusive, evidence-based, and responsive to the needs of tenants and service providers alike.

Period	19 Feb 2025
Event type	Conference
Location	Cardiff, United KingdomShow on map
Degree of Recognition	National