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SMEs and web-based business processes: barriers and solutions

Author

Listed:
  • Doug Cruickshank
  • Damien McLeod

Abstract

At present most SMEs make only relatively basic use of the internet. It is recognised that SMEs can gain greater business benefit by undertaking web-based business processes, however there is little use of such applications amongst SMEs. This preliminary investigation explores the factors which help to explain the reticence of SMEs to consider web-based processes delivered by the application service provider model. The paper identifies the key barriers, the greatest of which is seen as "fear". A mechanism is proposed for SMEs to readily assess and overcome the main "fear factor" barrier and thereby commence a more reasoned evaluation of the real business case. The conclusions also provide some guidance to development agencies and the application providers.

Suggested Citation

  • Doug Cruickshank & Damien McLeod, 2004. "SMEs and web-based business processes: barriers and solutions," International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 4(6), pages 546-560.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijeima:v:4:y:2004:i:6:p:546-560
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