Business continuity management of small and medium sized enterprises: Evidence from Thailand

Abstract

The concept of business continuity management (BCM) has recently emerged with regard to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Thailand, and only few relevant studies were conducted. Thus, the present study aims to generate a better understanding of current practices of BCM by SMEs as well as to illuminate their assistance needs. Data were collected from 136 SMEs in Thailand by means of a questionnaire targeting top management. While the study reveals a substantial degree of Thai SME disaster experience, it shows a low-level of preparedness for business continuity, including a failure to develop a written business continuity plan (BCP). Although knowledge of BCM and relevant training needs vary among SMEs, results suggest that perceived disaster readiness, business continuity knowledge and training needs positively correlated with a scale of business size, operation period and disaster experience. Thus, the study highlights the importance of extending support to small businesses, particularly ones in disaster prone areas. Equally important, both public and private sectors can play an important role in promoting BCM practices among SMEs.