Antecedents of sustainable generative AI use among HEIs employees: examining net benefits through the lens of IS success and innovativeness

Purpose – This study aims to explore and identify key antecedents influencing the sustainable use of Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) among employees within higher education institutions (HEIs) in the UK, utilizing the DeLone and McLean Information Systems Success Model (DMISSM) extended with the construct of individual innovativeness. Furthermore, it examines the resulting net benefits, including enhanced competence, decision quality and productivity. Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was adopted. Data were collected from 242 employees working in academic and administrative roles within UK higher education (HE), using an online survey. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the hypotheses and validate the proposed conceptual framework. Findings – The study confirms that system and information quality, user satisfaction and individual innovativeness significantly influence employees' sustainable use of GenAI tools. Sustainable use, in turn, has a substantial positive impact on employees' net benefits, particularly in terms of productivity, competence and decision-making quality. Originality/value – This research makes novel theoretical contributions by integrating innovativeness into the DMISSM, offering fresh insights into GenAI adoption dynamics within HE. Practically, the findings underscore crucial considerations for HEIs aiming to effectively leverage GenAI to improve employee performance and achieve broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).