Meeting the challenges of ICT adoption by micro‐enterprises
Journal of Enterprise Information Management
ISSN: 1741-0398
Article publication date: 17 October 2008
Abstract
Purpose
Information and communication technologies (ICTs) open new opportunities for micro‐enterprises to improve their businesses. However, challenges to using ICTs impede these businesses from growing into drivers for development. This paper seeks to investigate the adoption of ICTs in 11 micro‐enterprises in an underserved community of Omaha, Nebraska.
Design/methodology/approach
Following an action research study, this research provides insight into the key challenges and opportunities facing micro‐enterprises in their use of ICTs to create value for their businesses.
Findings
The process of “IT therapy” provides individualized technology‐related assistance, with an emphasis on relationship‐building, customized training, context sensitivity, and solutions that target strongly‐perceived needs of the businesses studied.
Originality/value
The paper's contribution is in the methodology for facilitating the adoption of ICTs in micro‐enterprises.
Keywords
Citation
Wolcott, P., Kamal, M. and Qureshi, S. (2008), "Meeting the challenges of ICT adoption by micro‐enterprises", Journal of Enterprise Information Management, Vol. 21 No. 6, pp. 616-632. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410390810911212
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited