E-Commerce Trading Patterns within the SME Sector: An Opportunity Missed?

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Author(s): Paul Jones (University of Glamorgan, UK), Gary Packham (University of Glamorgan, UK), David Pickernell (University of Glamorgan, UK)and Paul Beynon-Davies (Cardiff University, UK)
Copyright: 2010
Pages: 24
Source title: E-Commerce Adoption and Small Business in the Global Marketplace: Tools for Optimization
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Brychan Thomas (University of Glamorgan, UK)and Geoff Simmons (University of Ulster, Northern Ireland)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-60566-998-4.ch002

Keywords: Business & Management / Business Science Reference / Global Business

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Abstract

This study profiles an empirical study of E-Commerce trading patterns of SMEs in Wales. Academic debate continues to espouse the importance of the SME community in engendering economic prosperity and enhanced economic development although the sector also remains categorised by high failure rates. The strategic adoption of information technology offers the opportunity for increased competitiveness and enhanced profitability. Evidence suggests, however, that SMEs, particularly the smaller SME classifications, are not effectively exploiting E-business, with limited recorded examples of successful adoption. Within this study, E-Commerce trading practices are therefore contrasted against traditional non E-Commerce trading activity and conclusions are drawn on the behaviour adopted by SME Owner/Managers. The conclusions will inform Owner/Managers, policy makers, practitioners, researchers and educators involved in E-Commerce deployment in the SME sector.

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E-Commerce Trading Patterns within the SME Sector: An Opportunity Missed?

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