Interoperability as a Decision Variable in Cyber Threat Intelligence Adoption: A Conceptual Synthesis of Technology Adoption Models

Abstract

Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) adoption is essential for strengthening organizational cybersecurity, yet decision-makers continue to struggle with selecting and integrating CTI solutions that ensure effective interoperability. This narrative literature review synthesizes current research across decision-making theory, interoperability studies, technology adoption models, and CTI-sharing frameworks to identify the factors shaping CTI adoption in practice. Findings show that bounded rationality and cognitive overload influence how organizations evaluate CTI technologies, while compatibility and integration feasibility consistently emerge as dominant adoption determinants. A comparative analysis of DOI, TOE, TAM, TTF, and UTAUT indicates that these models provide valuable but incomplete perspectives on CTI contexts, particularly in addressing interoperability’s central role. The review highlights critical gaps in existing theoretical frameworks and offers targeted directions for future qualitative research to better understand how interoperability informs cybersecurity decision-making and CTI implementation. Keywords: Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI), Interoperability, Decision-Making, Bounded Rationality, Technology Adoption, Diffusion Of Innovation (DOI), Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE), Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Unified Theory Of Acceptance And Use Of Technology (UTAUT), Task–Technology Fit (TTF), Cybersecurity, Information Systems