scholarly journals Framework of Blockchain-Supported E-Commerce Platform for Small and Medium Enterprises

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (15) ◽  
pp. 8158
Author(s):  
Ji Jiang ◽  
Jin Chen
Keyword(s):  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Encryption Algorithm ◽  
Employment Opportunities ◽  
Moral Hazards ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Blockchain Technology ◽  
Distributed Ledger ◽  
Medium Enterprises ◽  
Operation And Management

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play an important role in promoting the national economy and providing employment opportunities. E-commerce platforms may facilitate transactions between these enterprises. However, transactions on the e-commerce platform are non-face-to-face, strongly virtual, and variable, resulting in SMEs often facing moral hazards and opportunistic behaviors. Blockchain is a distributed ledger consisting of an encryption algorithm, consensus mechanism, and smart contracts, having the characteristics of authenticity, security, transparency, and unforgeability. Thus, the problems faced by SMEs can be resolved by combining e-commerce platforms and blockchain technology. In this study, we first provide a conceptual framework for blockchain-supported e-commerce platforms for SMEs. Second, based on this conceptual framework, we build a total business architecture. Finally, we propose three key applications to illustrate how the platform facilitates SMEs in solving financing and trading problems. This study provides significant guidance for the operation and management of blockchain-supported e-commerce platforms for these enterprises.

A Conceptual Framework for the Acceptance of E-Commerce Technologies among Organizations in Developing Countries

2020 ◽  
pp. 205-210
Author(s):  
A. M. Meirmanova
Keyword(s):  
Developing Countries ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Cultural Dimensions ◽  
Cultural Dimension ◽  
Unified Theory ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Hofstede’S Cultural Dimensions ◽  
Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions ◽  
Medium Enterprises

The presented study examines e-commerce technologies a new conceptual framework of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries.Aim. The study aims to identify factors for the implementation and acceptance of e-commerce among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries.Tasks. The authors utilize tools of G. Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory to describe the emotional attitude of an individual to the use of technology.Methods. This study examines various aspects of the method of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT), which is implemented in many studies of behavioral intentions of individuals in the adoption of new technologies.Results. For the first time, a conceptual (predictive) model based on four moderating variables is proposed. The variables include such cultural dimension parameters as power distance index  (PDI), individualism/collectivism  (IDV), uncertainty avoidance  (UAI), and long-term/short-term orientation (LTO). These moderators boost the effect of the basic constructs on the behavioral propensity for the use and application of technologies.Conclusions. Based on the considered conceptual framework, the authors propose a number of recommendations for the development of tools that would ensure the required level of employee engagement in the acceptance and use of e-commerce technologies among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries. Another promising direction involves using the tools of G. Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory to examine the specific aspects of the acceptance and use of information technology among organizations belonging to different national business cultures.

scholarly journals Exploring E-leadership Behaviour of Sri Lankan Small and Medium Enterprises

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-19
Author(s):  
E. A. G. Sumanasiri
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Method ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Sri Lankan ◽  
Leadership Roles ◽  
Research Directions ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Leadership Behaviour ◽  
Future Research Directions ◽  
Medium Enterprises

This paper explores the e-leadership behaviours of Sri Lankan Small and Medium Entreprises and the barriers to e-leadership in SME sector. To explore these research objectives a qualitative method was used with 23 semi-structured face-to-face interviews with owners of fast-growing SMEs in Sri Lanka. To understand the effective e-leadership behaviours the study used Gary Yukl’s Hierarchical Taxonomy of Leadership Behaviours model. Findings confirmed that most SME leaders use ‘Internet of things’ in performing their leadership roles. Among the four effective e-leadership behaviours described by Gary Yukl, most SME leaders use e-leadership for change-oriented decision making while relationship-oriented leadership behaviours became the least important. Theoretical contributions, limitations and future research directions are discussed in the concluding section of the paper.

A Conceptual Framework for Assessing the Use of Strategic Management Accounting in Small and Medium Enterprises

2015 ◽  
Vol 35 (1) ◽  
pp. 45-54 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abolfazl Amanollah Nejad Kalkhouran ◽  
Siti Zaleha Abdul Rasid ◽  
Saudah Sofian ◽  
Bahareh Hossein Nezhad Nedaei
Keyword(s):  
Strategic Management ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Management Accounting ◽  
Strategic Management Accounting ◽  
Medium Enterprises

Innovation and Sustainability in SMEs

2018 ◽  
pp. 163-181 ◽  
Author(s):  
Neeta Baporikar
Keyword(s):  
Organizational Development ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
National Income ◽  
Global Market ◽  
Self Assessment ◽  
Employment Opportunities ◽  
Business Sustainability ◽  
Sustainable Solutions ◽  
Medium Enterprises ◽  
Short Termism

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the engines of economic growth, promote equitable development and create more opportunities for being innovative in providing sustainable solutions. They also play a crucial role in providing employment opportunities, aid industrialization in rural backward areas, reduce regional imbalances and assure equitable distribution of national income and wealth. But survival in the new global market calls not only for improved productivity but sustainability and growth through innovation on incessant basis. Business sustainability involves self-assessment to identify improvement opportunities, strengths and ideas for future organizational development. In India, though SME is an important contributor to economy, yet many face lot of difficulties and end winding up or becoming unsustainable. Several studies have shown that factors related to poor management, less innovative approaches, short short-termism are the causes of failure or closure. Hence, the core objective of this chapter is to explore the approaches which can lead to better understanding of sustainable replicas to enhance innovation and sustainability.

Electronic Networks and Gaining Market Share

2013 ◽  
pp. 142-157
Author(s):  
Ghazi Al-Weshah ◽  
Khalil Al-Hyari ◽  
Amjad Abu-Elsamen ◽  
Marwan Al-Nsour
Keyword(s):  
Market Share ◽  
English Language ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Deep Understanding ◽  
International Markets ◽  
Project Managers ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Electronic Networks ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Medium Enterprises

This study provides a deep understanding of the current status of electronic networks in the Jordanian handicrafts sector from managers’ perspectives. More specifically, this study enhances utilisation of the e-environment to gain market share in local, regional, and international markets. Four cases of handicraft projects are selected to conduct face to face interviews. The results show that handicraft projects have initial attempts to use E-electronic in their activities, but these attempts are still in embryonic stages, and they do not use E-networks effectively to gain market share. However, project managers believe that there is a direct link between the use of electronic networks and increases in the business’s market share. Furthermore, it is intended that these initiatives be treated as innovative and at the end utilised to enhance the business development of similar enterprises belonging to the small and medium enterprises sector. The study recommends that such projects consider adoption of e-networks in their future plans, enhance their staff skills in terms of improving their IT and English language skills, and develop their own internet website to create new marketing channels.

Electronic Networks and Gaining Market Share

2011 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 1-15 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ghazi Al-Weshah ◽  
Khalil Al-Hyari ◽  
Amjad Abu-Elsamen ◽  
Marwan Al-Nsour
Keyword(s):  
Market Share ◽  
English Language ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Deep Understanding ◽  
International Markets ◽  
Project Managers ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Electronic Networks ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Medium Enterprises

This study provides a deep understanding of the current status of electronic networks in the Jordanian handicrafts sector from managers’ perspectives. More specifically, this study enhances utilisation of the e-environment to gain market share in local, regional, and international markets. Four cases of handicraft projects are selected to conduct face to face interviews. The results show that handicraft projects have initial attempts to use E-electronic in their activities, but these attempts are still in embryonic stages, and they do not use E-networks effectively to gain market share. However, project managers believe that there is a direct link between the use of electronic networks and increases in the business’s market share. Furthermore, it is intended that these initiatives be treated as innovative and at the end utilised to enhance the business development of similar enterprises belonging to the small and medium enterprises sector. The study recommends that such projects consider adoption of e-networks in their future plans, enhance their staff skills in terms of improving their IT and English language skills, and develop their own internet website to create new marketing channels.

Omani SME perceptions towards Islamic financing systems

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 369-386
Author(s):  
Yasmeen Al Balushi ◽  
Stuart Locke ◽  
Zakaria Boulanouar
Keyword(s):  
Banking Industry ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Emerging Market ◽  
Capital City ◽  
Islamic Finance ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Islamic Banking ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Medium Enterprises

Purpose This paper aims to investigate small and medium enterprises’ (SMEs) owner–managers’ awareness, willingness and perceptions concerning Islamic financing instruments as an alternative sourcing decision in SMEs’ businesses. Design/methodology/approach The research employed mixed methods to gather data. A questionnaire survey was conducted via face-to-face interviews with 385 SME owner–managers operating in Muscat, Oman’s capital city, along with face-to-face discussion on Islamic finance with 86 SME owner–managers. Descriptive and thematic analysis were used to analyse the data. Findings The findings indicate that SME owner–managers are aware of Islamic banking principles and have knowledge of Islamic financial instruments, despite Islamic finance being new to Oman. Interestingly, although the majority of the participants indicated their intention to adopt this new finance method, they were motivated by special requirements other than finance. Their positive perception of Islamic financing methods could play a significant role in developing the Islamic banking industry. Research limitations/implications The research is limited in that its data came only from Omani SME owner–managers in Muscat. Future research could investigate wider samples. Secondly, the study’s findings lack generalisability to larger and public enterprises, because only SME owner–managers were surveyed. Practical implications This study will be important for policy makers concerned about SMEs’ financing, Islamic financial institutions and new entrants into the Islamic banking industry, as it provides empirically evidence of Omanis’ views, and more specifically those of Omani SME owner–managers, on the recent introduction of Islamic finance into the country. The insights this study offers should help them to develop the strategies required to attract SMEs and to construct policies and regulations to improve Oman’s Islamic banking industry. Originality/value The research is significant, as it is the first study to investigate the awareness, willingness and perceptions of Omani SMEs regarding Islamic banking in Oman. Even though all Omanis are Muslims, Oman was the last of the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council countries to introduce Islamic finance. Thus, this emerging market provides an important basis from which to extend future research on Islamic finance to other potential Islamic finance markets.

scholarly journals The Role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Employment Generation and Economic Growth: A Study of Marble Industry in Emerging Economy

2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (6) ◽  
pp. 174
Author(s):  
Lara Al-Haddad ◽  
Muhammad Safdar Sial ◽  
Imdad Ali ◽  
Rahmat Alam ◽  
Nguyen Vinh Khuong ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Economic Growth ◽  
Positive Relationship ◽  
Small And Medium Enterprises ◽  
Income Level ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Employment Opportunities ◽  
Policy Frameworks ◽  
Employment Generation ◽  
Medium Enterprises

This study is undertaken to find out how SMEs contribute to the economy in terms of employment generation and its impact on the economic growth of the country. Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) is accepted globally as a tool for empowering the citizenry and economic growth. In Pakistan efforts have been made by successive governments to increase employment opportunities, reduce poverty and accelerate economic growth by increasing foreign direct investment, diversifying the economy, enacting policy frameworks which favor small business ownership and entrepreneurship programs. Specifically, this study tends to figure out: how SMEs contribute to employment generation, whether a significant number of people is employ within the SME sector; whether the SMEs increase the income level of people. The total number of employees was 255 being selected randomly from Swat marble industries. A questionnaire was constructed and distributed to the selected respondents. The responses were collected and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) analytical tool. The study exposes that SMEs play a vital role in employment generation. There is a positive relationship between SMEs and unemployment reduction. The result also shows that there is a positive relationship between SMEs and increase in income level. This study may be beneficial both for practitioners and academicians. For practitioners, the current study may help to devise policies and strategies concerning SMEs to generate employment opportunities. The current study may lead to the generalizability of existing research in the same field as for academic aspect is a concern.

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