Unlocking the potential of public opinions for niche development using acceptance mining

Abstract

This paper proposes a combination of text mining and acceptance research as a methodological approach (“acceptance mining”) to facilitate the development of innovative technologies in niches. At the example of recharging infrastructures for electric vehicles, the approach is explored on a sample of over 20,000 user comments collected from social media and discussion forums. The results indicate that acceptance mining provides valuable insights into the demands of the public during all phases of niche development which allow shaping niches in socially acceptable ways. In particular, the method reveals requirements and risks of niche-development measures such as shielding, nurturing, and empowering niches as perceived by the public. The results are discussed regarding the potentials of acceptance mining for developing innovations in niches as well as its limitations and possibilities for optimization. Acceptance mining and its application to a case study are especially of interest for researchers and practitioners involved in niche development; the study results provide valuable insights for professionals engaged in developing recharging infrastructures for electric vehicles.