Title: Design and implementation of a recommender system for smartphone preferences in Zambia

Authors: Darius Bwalya; Douglas Kunda

Addresses: Directorate of Information, Communication and Technology, Copperbelt University, Main Campus, Jambo Drive, Kitwe, Zambia ' School of Science, Engineering and Technology, Mulungushi University, Great North Road Campus, Kabwe, Zambia

Abstract: With countless brands, models and capabilities of mobile phones to choose from, the challenge is to have the automated ideal mix of factors or features and how these can be integrated in smartphone recommendation for easy decision making. Therefore, the main objective of the study was to design and implement a recommender web application based on the important feature or preferences that influence users when selecting a smartphone in Zambia. Design science research (DSR) methodology was adopted and in the problem awareness stage a survey was conducted to validate the factors identified in literature as to whether they are important in Zambian context. This was confirmed by the survey and over 60% of respondents recommended development of an application to assist users in smartphone selection. Consequently, a smartphone recommender system was developed using design science research methodology and the results are presented in this paper.

Keywords: recommender system; smartphone preferences; design science research; DSR; artefact; user centred design; design requirements.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBIS.2025.144871

International Journal of Business Information Systems, 2025 Vol.48 No.3, pp.377 - 405

Received: 07 Oct 2020
Accepted: 03 Jul 2021
Published online: 06 Mar 2025 *

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