Technology readiness and demographic drivers: Understanding mobile commerce adoption patterns in South Africa’s digital economy

This study examines how technology readiness and selects demographic characteristics influence the uptake of mobile commerce among SMEs in Polokwane, South Africa. Although factors such as age, gender, and education level have been investigated in other regions, their impact in the South African SME sector remains insufficiently explored. The research employed a quantitative design, surveying 146 SMEs drawn randomly from a total of 261. Data were collected using a closed ended, self-administered questionnaire and analysed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, ANOVA, regression, and Chi-Square tests. Correlation results revealed a strong positive association between technology readiness and mobile commerce adoption, whereas demographic variables demonstrated weak or non-significant relationships. ANOVA and regression confirmed technology readiness as a significant predictor, with no statistically significant influence from age, gender, or education; Chi-Square tests supported these outcomes. Reliability was assessed through Cronbach’s alpha, and normality was checked using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Overall, technology readiness emerged as the dominant driver of adoption, yet the limited role of demographic factors suggests opportunities for targeted interventions to improve inclusivity and expand adoption among SMEs. Key Words:Mobile Commerce, Technology Readiness, Demographic Factors, SMEs, South Africa