Characteristics Of Micro Enterprises Research Articles

Creative industries micro-enterprises and informality: a case study of the Shweshwe sewing industry in South Africa

ABSTRACT The Cultural and Creative Industries have great potential for providing employment and economic development, as has been demonstrated by a number of international studies. However, cultural firms tend to be small and employment is precarious, with a high level of informality and freelance work. This study investigates the characteristics of micro-enterprises who sew bespoke garments for individual customers using a particular South African textile, called Shweshwe. Findings show that the informality of the businesses does not have a statistically significant impact on turnover, when controlling for other factors, such as the education level of the owner. This suggests that the informal business model may be a deliberate, rational choice for firm owners working in a project-based cultural sector, rather than a survivalist strategy of last resort. Employment creation is, however, greater for those micro-enterprises operating in the formal sector, suggesting that there may still be benefits to formality for some firms.

Falling outside the system: Occupational safety and health inspectors’ experiences of micro-enterprises in Sweden

In this study, 11 Swedish occupational safety and health (OSH) inspectors were interviewed about their views of and experiences interacting with micro-enterprises (1-9 employees). The qualitative content analysis found one theme, “Falling outside the system”, and three subthemes, “The inspector—shaped by specific standards”, “The bureaucrat and the micro-entrepreneur—two separate worlds”, and “System faults and system changes”. According to the inspectors, the Swedish OSH regulatory system, with inspectors on the front line, neglects the specific needs, circumstances and characteristics of micro-enterprises. Therefore, we suggest revising the OSH regulatory system and following inspection methods and enforcement styles to better address the needs of micro-enterprises.

A qualitative inquiry into cashwaqfmodel as a source of financing for micro enterprises

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the opinions and recommendations of various experts on the integrated cashwaqfmicro enterprise investment (ICWME-I) model, particularly in terms of its suitability, applicability and prospects in the market.Design/methodology/approachThe research involves primary data which are collected from semi-structured interviews conducted with experts from various backgrounds. Thematic analysis was used to examine the data.FindingsThe experts support the suitability of the ICWME-I model in providing financial services to micro enterprises. They highlight the importance of establishing, managing and operating ICWME-I model under the aegis of the State Islamic Religious Council in Malaysia or the corporate sector. They further emphasize that the characteristics of micro enterprises, the element of sustainable funding, the importance of proper management and administration, legal matters and public awareness are key factors that influence the sustainability of the ICWME-I model.Originality/valueThis paper adds to the literature onwaqfand micro enterprises especially from the Malaysian context. The paper validates the ICWME-I model in terms of its suitability, applicability and prospects in the market by interviewing experts from various backgrounds.

The strategic use of computerised information systems by a micro enterprise

This paper is a case study of the use of information systems (IS) by a micro enterprise. In particular, it attempts to answer the question: can micro enterprises use IS strategically? It examines the distinguishing characteristics of micro enterprises and the use of IS in micro enterprises. It gives a brief history and description of the micro enterprise in question (Lanzarote First) and then analyses the use of IS from two angles: functionality and benefits. Importantly, the strategic benefits of the various IS are differentiated from other efficiency and effectiveness benefits. The case also tests the use of an IS planning methodology. The case illustrates that a micro enterprise can use IS strategically and, because of the absence of certain factors which are present in large organisations, the impact of IS may be even greater.