Start Date
16-8-2018 12:00 AM
Description
E-business models adopted by SMEs are often abstruse and poorly represented, which makes them difficult to evaluate e-business value. This research drew from different theories to create a comprehensive model for e-business evaluation. The study adopted Gerbner’s theory of communication exchange which posits that by studying the events of the communication exchange, one can infer about the state of the systems engaged in the exchange and their relationships. Consequently quantitative website content analysis of 20 SMEs was conducted to determine their e-business value. The results revealed that most products and services are offered and traded by an SME led by an entrepreneur who demonstrates commitment to the business and is visionary. Also, when there is more technology functionality within the business and its network, connections with other actors are enabled which instigates communication. Lastly, value activity is created when e-business is well maintained and used by employees with intellectual resources. \ \ Keywords \ \ E-business value, SMEs, conceptual model, Southern Africa, quantitative website content analysis. \
Recommended Citation
Tsumake, Meduduetso and Kyobe, Michael, "E-Business Value in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Southern Africa: A Quantitative Content Analysis of Websites" (2018). AMCIS 2018 Proceedings. 17.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2018/GlobalDev/Presentations/17
E-Business Value in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Southern Africa: A Quantitative Content Analysis of Websites
E-business models adopted by SMEs are often abstruse and poorly represented, which makes them difficult to evaluate e-business value. This research drew from different theories to create a comprehensive model for e-business evaluation. The study adopted Gerbner’s theory of communication exchange which posits that by studying the events of the communication exchange, one can infer about the state of the systems engaged in the exchange and their relationships. Consequently quantitative website content analysis of 20 SMEs was conducted to determine their e-business value. The results revealed that most products and services are offered and traded by an SME led by an entrepreneur who demonstrates commitment to the business and is visionary. Also, when there is more technology functionality within the business and its network, connections with other actors are enabled which instigates communication. Lastly, value activity is created when e-business is well maintained and used by employees with intellectual resources. \ \ Keywords \ \ E-business value, SMEs, conceptual model, Southern Africa, quantitative website content analysis. \