Antecedents and consequences of e-commerce adoption for SMEs

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to identify antecedents and consequences of e-commerce adoption in SMEs. The research was based on a modified UTAUT framework, incorporating existing IT resources and knowledge. A survey of retail SMEs in different stages of technology adoption (n = 88) was analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM). Results showed that performance expectancy and effort expectancy, along with facilitating conditions, contributed to e-commerce adoption. However, social influence did not have a significant influence. The implication of the research is that education about e-commerce benefits, risks, and required resources could assist in technology adoption.