COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION IN SMES: A TALE OF TWO ECONOMIES - THE UNITED STATES AND NIGERIA

Abstract

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly relying on technology integration to drive growth and competitiveness. This paper proposes a comparative review of how SMEs in two contrasting economies, the United States and Nigeria, are navigating the digital transformation journey. The core objective is to explore the dynamics, challenges, and prospects of technology adoption in these distinct economic contexts, offering valuable insights into the global patterns of SME digitalization. The United States, representing a developed and technologically advanced economy, presents a scenario where SMEs are leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational efficiency, market reach, and customer engagement. This review will explore the range of technologies being adopted, from cloud computing and AI-driven analytics to sophisticated e-commerce solutions. It will also delve into the challenges faced by US SMEs, such as cybersecurity threats and a competitive landscape dominated by tech giants. Furthermore, the review will assess the impact of supportive government policies and the digital skills landscape on SME technology integration. Contrastingly, in Nigeria, an emerging economy with distinct challenges and opportunities, SMEs are also embracing technology, albeit in different forms and scales. The review will examine the uptake of mobile technology, fintech, and digital platforms, particularly focusing on how these technologies enable Nigerian SMEs to overcome infrastructural limitations and access broader markets. Additionally, it will address the challenges unique to the Nigerian context, including erratic power supply, limited access to funding, and regulatory hurdles. The role of government initiatives in promoting technology adoption among Nigerian SMEs will also be a focal point. By drawing parallels and highlighting contrasts between these two economies, the paper aims to shed light on the multifaceted nature of SME technology integration. It will underscore how contextual factors like economic development, infrastructure, and policy environments shape the technology adoption pathways for SMEs. The review will also prognosticate future trends, identifying potential technological innovations that could revolutionize SME operations in both developed and developing economies. This comparative review is pivotal in understanding the global digital SME landscape. It offers practical insights for policymakers, business leaders, and technology developers, guiding them in creating tailored strategies and solutions that foster SME growth and resilience in an increasingly digital world.
 Keywords: Technology, SMEs, USA, Nigeria, Technology Integration, Digital Landscape, Economy.