Education as a determining factor in ICT adoption: a case study of ICT SMEs

Abstract

Whilst owner–managers of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have a major influence on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) adoption in other sectors, in the ICT industry adoption and diversification are necessary at an alarming speed. The implications of this influence are not only on the SME itself but are far wider-reaching. Consequently, this research has identified specific educational concerns with regard to owner–managers and technology adoption. The West Midlands (WM) ICT Cluster provides the case study for research examining the adoption of ICT by ICT focused SMEs. This study involved 200 ICT SMEs in the West Midlands (WM) UK. This paper demonstrates that common misconceptions are as endemic in ICT companies as in any other sector. This research is unique in that it targets one sector only which has often been assumed not to need support in ICT adoption. This paper concentrates specifically on the micro-company and the education levels and skills employed for company success.