AdoptQC

Duration: 2026–2028

Project acronym: AdoptQC

Project leader: Dr Janez Kolar

Project coordinator: Rudolfovo – Science and Technology Centre Novo mesto

Consortium partners in alphabetical order:

Faculty of Information Studies in Novo mesto

School of Advanced Social Studies in Nova Gorica

University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Computer and Information Science

Funding: 

A basic national research project funded by ARIS, the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency.

Project description

The AdoptQC project focuses on quantum computing (QC) as a radical, early-stage digital technology with the potential to have a profound impact on society and the economy as a whole. While the technology is still developing, it is crucial to understand the so-called initiation phase of its adoption, as this will determine the extent to which companies will be able to exploit its potential.

The project innovatively bridges a gap in the existing literature by combining innovation ecosystem approaches at the macro level with technology adoption theories, such as the TOE framework – Technology, Organisation, Environment – at the micro level. In doing so, it offers a comprehensive multi-layered framework for understanding the adoption of new technologies before they reach full maturity.

Methodological approach

The project is based on an interdisciplinary approach and methodological triangulation. It combines the analysis of secondary data, patent analysis in the field of quantum computing, qualitative structured interviews, and advanced methods such as fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) for understanding configurational pathways, as well as the DEXi method for developing future technology adoption scenarios.

Key objectives and results

• To develop and test an innovative multi-layer framework that explains the interplay of micro- and macro-level factors in the adoption of quantum computing during the initiation phase.

• To identify specific configurational pathways for the adoption of quantum technologies, taking into account technological, organisational, and environmental factors.

• To use DEXi analysis to develop future scenarios for the adoption of quantum computing, considering regional differences between innovation ecosystems in Slovenia, Germany, Italy, France, and Spain.

• To prepare recommendations for decision-makers, in the form of a white paper, to guide regional development and accelerate the adoption of quantum technologies in industry.

Social and regional relevance

The AdoptQC project contributes not only to the theoretical understanding of innovation ecosystems and the dynamics of technology diffusion, but also provides important empirical insights into how organisations respond to the “quantum challenge”. By developing regionally tailored scenarios, the AdoptQC project directly supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9): building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, and fostering innovation.

For news about public presentations, important milestones, and other current activities related to the AdoptQC project, follow us on the project’s official LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adoptqc-project-83a98741a/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BQDVkyVL5Tpm8L1Ymi43G%2Fw%3D%3D