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Information and communications technology adoption and use in small and medium businesses

Author

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  • Karen L. Middleton
  • Kent Byus

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of Hispanic ethnicity on the adoption and use of information and communication technology (ICT) tools by small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in a southwestern renewal community (RC). Design/methodology/approach - The paper investigates the influence of ethnicity on the adoption and use of information and communications technologies in small and medium enterprises using a sample from the RC of a large southwestern metroplex. Findings - Results point to a continuing digital divide among Hispanic and non‐Hispanic SME owners. Non‐Hispanic SME owners were found to be much more likely to adopt a wider range of ICTs and to use them for both administrative and analytical purposes. Hispanic SME owners not only failed to adopt a full range of ICTs but also they were less likely to use ICTs for long‐term strategic analyses. Originality/value - The differences presented in this paper suggest that Hispanic SME owners may not be exploiting ICTs in order to achieve optimal operating efficiency and strategic effectiveness. The outcomes are particularly alarming because SMEs in RC areas have been the target of federal efforts to raise business productivity and profitability. The continuing digital divide may be undermining the very polices designed to enhance business operations in these relatively disadvantaged urban areas.

Suggested Citation

  • Karen L. Middleton & Kent Byus, 2011. "Information and communications technology adoption and use in small and medium businesses," Management Research Review, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 34(1), pages 98-110, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:eme:mrrpps:v:34:y:2011:i:1:p:98-110
    DOI: 10.1108/01409171111096496
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Mack, Elizabeth A. & Marie-Pierre, Lisa & Redican, Kyle, 2017. "Entrepreneurs’ use of internet and social media applications," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 41(2), pages 120-139.
    2. Prieger, James, 2023. "Local banking markets and barriers to entrepreneurship in minority and other areas: Does broadband availability help?," MPRA Paper 118102, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    3. Beldina Owalla & Cristian Gherhes & Tim Vorley & Chay Brooks, 2022. "Mapping SME productivity research: a systematic review of empirical evidence and future research agenda," Small Business Economics, Springer, vol. 58(3), pages 1285-1307, March.
    4. Prieger, James E., 2023. "Local banking markets and barriers to entrepreneurship in minority and other areas," Journal of Economics and Business, Elsevier, vol. 124(C).

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