Authors

  • Martina Ononiwu  Department of Business Development and Information Technology, Runstead Services, Paris, France.
  • Tony Isioma Azonuche  Department of Project Management, Amberton University, Garland Texas, USA.
  • Onum Friday Okoh  Department of Economics, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
  • Joy Onma Enyejo  Department of Business Management Nasarawa State University, Keffi. Nasarawa State. Nigeria

Keywords:

Smart Business Models, Digital Infrastructure, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), Digital Transformation, Technological Barriers, Change Management

Abstract

In the contemporary digital economy, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly compelled to adopt smart business models to remain competitive and responsive to market dynamics. Smart business models leverage digital technologies to enhance operational efficiency, customer engagement, and innovation capacity. However, the transition to such models is fraught with challenges, particularly concerning digital infrastructure. This study investigates the specific digital infrastructure barriers that SMEs encounter in their pursuit of smart business models, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of these impediments and propose actionable solutions. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with SME owners and managers across various sectors. The quantitative component involves a structured survey distributed to 500 SMEs, assessing their current digital infrastructure, readiness for digital transformation, and perceived barriers. The qualitative component comprises in-depth interviews with 30 SME stakeholders, providing nuanced insights into the challenges and strategies related to digital infrastructure. Findings reveal that SMEs face multifaceted barriers in transitioning to smart business models. Key challenges include limited financial resources to invest in advanced digital technologies, inadequate broadband connectivity, lack of in-house technical expertise, cybersecurity concerns, and resistance to organizational change. These barriers are often interrelated, creating a complex landscape that hinders digital transformation efforts. Financial constraints emerge as a predominant barrier, with many SMEs unable to afford the initial investment required for digital infrastructure upgrades. This limitation is exacerbated by difficulties in accessing external funding or government support programs. Inadequate broadband connectivity, particularly in rural or underserved areas, further impedes the adoption of cloud-based services and real-time data analytics essential for smart business operations. The lack of in-house technical expertise poses another significant challenge. SMEs often struggle to recruit and retain skilled IT professionals, leading to reliance on external consultants or suboptimal utilization of digital tools. Cybersecurity concerns also deter SMEs from embracing digital transformation, as they fear potential data breaches and lack the resources to implement robust security measures. Organizational resistance to change, rooted in established workflows and cultural inertia, further complicates the transition. Employees may be hesitant to adopt new technologies, and management may lack a clear digital strategy or vision. This resistance underscores the need for change management initiatives and leadership commitment to foster a digital-ready culture. This research contributes to the existing literature by providing an in-depth analysis of digital infrastructure barriers specific to SMEs and offering practical solutions to facilitate their transition to smart business models. By addressing these challenges, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and SMEs themselves can collaboratively pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient digital economy.

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International Journal of Scientific Research in Science, Engineering and Technology

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Published

2023-08-30

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Volume 10, Issue 4, July-August-2023

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Research Articles

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How to Cite

[1]
Martina Ononiwu, Tony Isioma Azonuche, Onum Friday Okoh, Joy Onma Enyejo "" International Journal of Scientific Research in Science, Engineering and Technology (IJSRSET), Print ISSN : 2395-1990, Online ISSN : 2394-4099, Volume 10, Issue 4, pp.371-390, July-August-2023.