Small Medium Enterprises Research Articles

Small And Medium Size Enterprises (Smes), Made In Cameroon, Import-Substitution: Possible Or Mirage?

The objective of this research was to apply scientific methodology to assess the capacity in term of Technical, Innovation, and Financial of Small and Medium Sizes Enterprises (SMEs) in Cameroon to face the challenge of Import Substitution with “Made in Cameroon” products and services. This was done through analyzing data on a sample which was randomly selected from SMES operating in different sectors in Cameroon. A structured survey questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data on SME efforts on key variables such as SME size, years in operation, investment in technology, R&D expenditure, access to finance, and perceptions of government support. The Mean Computation analyses allow us to compare two or more important variables to achieve the main objective, while the Correlation Analyses bring us to analyses the relationships or the interdependencies that exist between a given set of variables. The study concludes that the main findings are in line with our hypotheses and show that using strategies to replace imports can help increase local production, particularly in manufacturing sector. To support SMEs a pack of recommendations was proposed to enhance government support toward SMEs

Analysis of the application of financial management to the profitability of MSMES through debt management of MSME Players in Kwala Serapuh Village, Langkat

This study aims to analyze the effect of financial management implementation on the profitability of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through debt management. The case study was conducted on MSME players in Kwala Serapuh Village. Good financial management is key to the sustainability and success of a business, especially MSMEs that have limitations in terms of capital and resources. This research uses quantitative methods by distributing questionnaires to MSME actors in Kwala Serapuh Village. The number of samples in this study were 50 respondents of MSME actors. Data analysis was carried out using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method using SmartPLS version 4 software. PLS is one of the methods of solving Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results showed that the variable of financial management implementation has a positive and significant influence on debt management. The variable of financial management implementation has a positive and significant influence on the profitability of MSMEs. The debt management variable has a positive and significant influence on the profitability of MSMEs. The variable of financial management implementation on MSME profitability through debt management has a positive and significant influence on MSME profitability. The debt management variable can be influenced by the application of financial management by 76.1% and the remaining 23.9% is influenced by other variables outside those studied. While the MSME profitability variable can be influenced by the application of financial management and debt management by 50.9% and the rest is influenced by other variables outside the study.

Omni-channel customer experience framework: enhancing service delivery in SMEs

The omni-channel customer experience framework offers a comprehensive strategy for enhancing service delivery in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This review examines how the integration of multiple communication and interaction channels—both online and offline—creates seamless, consistent, and personalized customer journeys, thereby improving overall service delivery. For SMEs, adopting an omni-channel approach provides significant competitive advantages by enabling customers to engage with businesses through their preferred platforms, including websites, mobile apps, social media, in-store visits, and customer service hotlines. This strategy fosters customer satisfaction, retention, and brand loyalty. By leveraging technology and data analytics, SMEs can synchronize customer interactions across channels, ensuring that customers receive a cohesive experience regardless of their entry point. Omni-channel frameworks allow businesses to track customer preferences, behaviors, and interactions, which in turn helps in delivering personalized services and timely responses. Automation tools such as chatbots and AI-driven systems further support this by providing 24/7 customer service, enhancing responsiveness and efficiency, particularly for resource-constrained SMEs. The integration of physical and digital touchpoints is crucial in creating a seamless experience. For example, customers may research a product online, visit a physical store to experience it firsthand, and then complete the purchase through a mobile app. SMEs that effectively adopt an omni-channel strategy can cater to evolving customer expectations and deliver more flexible, adaptive service offerings. Moreover, this framework helps in gathering and analyzing customer data from various touchpoints, offering valuable insights into customer behavior and preferences. These insights enable SMEs to continuously refine their service delivery, anticipate customer needs, and innovate their business models. In conclusion, implementing an omni-channel customer experience framework empowers SMEs to enhance service delivery by providing consistent, personalized, and responsive interactions across multiple platforms. This approach is key to maintaining competitiveness, improving customer satisfaction, and fostering long-term growth.

Conceptualizing agile business practices for enhancing SME resilience to economic shocks

This paper examines the role of agile business practices in fortifying small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) against economic shocks, emphasizing resilience as a critical factor for sustainable growth. Given SMEs' vulnerability to unpredictable economic shifts, the study explores how agility — defined by rapid adaptation, flexibility, and innovation — enables these enterprises to navigate and recover from disruptions effectively. Through a review of resilience-building frameworks, the paper identifies core agile practices, such as adaptive decision-making, lean management, and iterative product development, as pivotal to enhancing SMEs' operational and strategic resilience. Findings indicate that SMEs leveraging agile methodologies experience improved responsiveness to market changes, reduced operational risks, and greater capacity to maintain continuity during crises. Additionally, the study discusses the integration of digital tools, cross-functional teams, and customer-centric approaches as enablers of agility that strengthen resilience. Conclusions underscore the necessity for SMEs to adopt agile frameworks not only as a response mechanism but also as a proactive strategy for long-term stability and competitiveness in volatile markets. This research contributes to the growing discourse on SME resilience, offering actionable insights for stakeholders seeking to embed agility as a fundamental attribute in organizational practices.

Data-driven financial models for sustainable SME growth: Integrating green finance into small and medium enterprise strategies

In recent years, the increasing urgency to address climate change and environmental degradation has prompted a shift towards sustainable business practices, particularly within the realm of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This paper explores the integration of green finance into the strategic frameworks of SMEs, examining how financial instruments and funding mechanisms can support environmentally sustainable practices while fostering economic growth. By assessing the current landscape of green finance, including green loans, bonds, and impact investing, the study identifies barriers SMEs face in accessing these resources. It highlights successful case studies where SMEs have effectively utilized green finance to implement energy-efficient technologies, sustainable supply chains, and eco-friendly product innovations. Furthermore, the paper proposes a strategic model for SMEs to incorporate green finance into their operations, emphasizing the importance of aligning with sustainability goals, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and leveraging partnerships with financial institutions. The findings underscore that integrating green finance not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also enhances the competitive advantage and resilience of SMEs in an evolving market landscape.

Impact of financial and internet support on SME performance: Moderating effect of technology adoption during COVID-19 pandemic

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are widely recognised as significant catalysts for economic growth at a worldwide level. The benefits that are frequently highlighted for their promotion, particularly in developing nations like Bangladesh, include their relatively high labor intensity, reliance on local technology and skills, contributions to the growth of entrepreneurialism and innovativeness, and industrial linkage expansion. The objective of this study is to examine the influence of financial and internet support on the performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic while also considering the moderating effect of technology adoption. By going through the literature, the study identified a number of factors namely financial support, ICT support, technological support played a strong role on SME performance during COVID-19. The present study utilises Partial Least Square (PLS) path modelling, a variance-based technique within the framework of Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), to investigate the correlations. A well-structured questionnaire is prepared for collecting primary data from the SME owners or managers and finally 378 data have been collected from the different types of SME entrepreneurs through using purposive sampling technique. Eight hypotheses are tested and found seven positive relationships with moderating interaction of technology adoption between influential factors and SME performance (financial and non-financial).

Strengthening the competitive advantage of MSME actors through the human resources competency development program (skill, knowledge and attitude)

This research focuses on strengthening the competitive advantage of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through human resource competency development programs, which include three main aspects: skills, knowledge, and attitudes. The purpose of this study is to identify the positive impact of human resource development programs on the competitiveness of MSME actors in an increasingly dynamic market. In the context of globalization and digital transformation, adaptability and innovation are crucial elements that support the growth of MSMEs. This study uses a quantitative method with a survey of 100 MSME actors from various economic sectors, and qualitative through in-depth interviews with business actors and HR development program organizers. The results of the study show that practical skills training, increasing business knowledge, and forming a positive attitude significantly improve the competitiveness of MSMEs. MSMEs that participate in human resource development programs tend to be more innovative in terms of products and services, have more efficient management, and are better able to face market challenges compared to those who do not. In particular, the aspect of proactive attitude and openness to change strongly supports the adaptation of digital technology in business management. Thus, this study recommends the implementation of a holistic human resource development program as one of the strategies to strengthen the competitiveness of MSMEs in the domestic and global markets.

Credit Risk Modelling for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Using Machine Learning

This study focuses on developing a credit risk model specifically designed for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) using advanced machine learning techniques. The purpose is to enhance the precision of credit risk assessments, providing financial institutions with reliable tools to gauge the likelihood of default among SMEs. The methodology includes data collection from traditional and alternative sources, followed by feature engineering and model training using algorithms such as logistic regression, decision trees, and neural networks. Results demonstrate significant improvements in predictive accuracy, enabling financial institutions to make data-driven lending decisions and manage risks more effectively. This model not only contributes to financial stability but also promotes increased access to credit for SMEs.

Effects of entrepreneurial bricolage on innovation performance and firm performance: perspectives from Ghanaian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

PurposeThe study constructs a novel theoretical model based on resource orchestration theory and examines it using data from Ghanaian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Design/methodology/approachEntrepreneurial bricolage (EB) represents a creative mechanism by which SMEs navigate resource challenges to become competitive. The purpose of this paper is to examine the link between EB to both innovation performance and firm performance among manufacturing SMEs in Ghana. In addition, we also examine the mediating role of polychronicity in the relationship between EB, innovation performance and firm performance.FindingsThe results suggest that EB positively and significantly influences both innovation performance and firm performance. Furthermore, polychronicity partially mediates the relationship between EB and innovation performance and between EB and firm performance.Originality/valueThis study enhances our understanding of the conditions under which EB may facilitate the attainment of innovation and firm performance among manufacturing SMEs. These findings also proffer practical and managerial implications for managing SMEs under resource constraints.

Beyond access to capital: exploring the effect of behavioral biases on the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)

Beyond access to capital: exploring the effect of behavioral biases on the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)

Automated Weld Path Generation in Cluttered Environments Using Segmentation and Iterative Closest Point Workpiece Localization

Abstract A significant amount of manufacturing is performed by small to medium enterprises (SMEs), but these manufacturers often have lower adoption rates of automation. The cost and complexity associated with traditional robot systems slow the adoption of robotic welding operations for SMEs. The recent increase in collaborative robotic welding systems is bridging the gap, however, by reducing the complexity of installing, maintaining, and training operators to perform weld operations with collaborative robotics. These systems add flexibility in the range of operator use and ease of deployment. These systems however still rely on kinematic registration between the robot-mounted torch and workpiece on any open-loop weld. This requires precise placement of the workpiece prior to performing a weld. This work will discuss a method for part identification and registration in a welding task as a step toward automated weld path generation. The method is based on lower-resolution 3D cameras (RGBD cameras) using a combination of color and depth information. This information is used to both identify the workpiece within a workspace that may have other, non-workpiece items, and then provide registration or localization information of the workpiece within a resolution that could allow follow-on near-position strategies to achieve final weld path identification.

Automated Inventory Management Systems with IoT Integration to Optimize Stock Levels and Reduce Carrying Costs for SMEs: A Comprehensive Review

Automated inventory management systems integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) technology represent a transformative approach for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in optimizing their stock levels and reducing carrying costs. A literature review also shows that there is progress in developing automated solutions, such as IoT sensors, real- time data analytics, and cloud-based applications that improve inventory control. A study shows that the adoption of IoT in automation has seen improvement in the accuracy of inventory, a reduction in stockouts, and carrying costs among SMEs. Research suggests operational improvements including reduced downtime from real time tracking, reverse logistics systems with intuitive demand forecasting for ideal stock replenishment and automation of reordering systems while effectively managing working capital. Materials and Methods: Research methodology encompassed a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed literature, case studies, and empirical research focusing on automated inventory management systems with IoT integration in SMEs. Criteria for choosing the literature included articles focusing on the outcomes of IoT implementation, technical integration, and performance of inventory systems. Data extraction main concern was on the efficiencies of the SC such as inventory accuracy, carrying costs, stockouts, and ROI. Descriptive methods used involved comparisons between pre-implementation and post- implementation data, use of statistical tools for measurement of performance enhancement and assessment of factors important in the deployment of the system. Results Implementation of IoT-integrated automated inventory management systems demonstrated significant improvements across multiple performance metrics. Studies reported average inventory accuracy improvements of 25-35%, reduction in carrying costs [1] by 20-30%, and decrease in stockout incidents by 35-45%. Real-time monitoring capabilities led to improved demand forecasting accuracy by 40%, while automated reordering systems reduced manual processing time by 60%. Cloud-based platforms enabled better inventory visibility and control, resulting in working capital optimization of 15-25%. SMEs implementing integrated systems reported enhanced supplier collaboration, reduced lead times, and improved customer satisfaction levels. Cost-benefit analyses indicated positive ROI within 12-18 months of system deployment. Discussion Analysis reveals several key factors contributing to successful implementation of automated inventory management systems with IoT integration. Critical success factors include proper system architecture design, effective change management strategies, and comprehensive staff training programs. Integration challenges primarily revolve around initial investment costs, technical expertise requirements, and system interoperability concerns. Studies show that the greater gains are experienced by SMEs with higher ITOR and those engaged in intricate supply chain operations. Literature review also points to differences in implementation strategies across different sectors and in their recovery, with manufacturing and retail sectors having the highest levels of adoption and improvement. Conclusion IoT-integrated automated inventory management solutions should be adopted by SMEs and are affirmed by ample data to help optimize stock status and minimize carrying costs. The tangible benefits that could be noted are accuracy in inventory, less operational costs, visibility of supply chain, and optimal use of working capital. In appointing the factors affecting the implementation success, it requires the assessment of the technical feasibility and organisational readiness as well as the management of change strategies. Research shows that dynamic technology factors will continue to improve the system’s performance and increased availability to SMEs. Due to advancement in IoT technology, artificial intelligence and cloud computing, there are potential factors that may boost the performance and cost of automatically Managed inventory systems in the future.

Role of Intellectual Capital in Mediating the Impact of Knowledge Management and Innovation in the Halal Batik Industry of Yogyakarta

The objective of this study is to investigate the role of intellectual capital in mediating the impact of knowledge management and motivation on halal small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the batik industry in Yogyakarta. Research on the mediating role of intellectual capital is still relatively novel in Indonesia. The study of the batik industry is particularly compelling, given that batik is an intangible asset recognized as UNESCO's cultural heritage, yet there is a noticeable decline in export value year by year. By focusing on halal batik SMEs, this study aims to explore how halal certification can enhance the market appeal and export potential of these businesses. The initial step of this research involves collecting data related to the research variables by distributing questionnaires to batik entrepreneurs in Yogyakarta. Subsequently, tests are conducted using PLS to analyze the results, examining the role of intellectual capital in mediating the impact of knowledge management and motivation on halal SMEs in the batik industry in Yogyakarta. The findings aim to provide insights into how intellectual capital can influence the sustainability and growth of batik enterprises, potentially offering strategies to counteract the declining export values and enhance the overall performance of these culturally significant businesses

Role of Intellectual Capital in Mediating the Impact of Knowledge Management and Innovation in the Halal Batik Industry of Yogyakarta

This study aims to investigate the role of intellectual capital in mediating the impact of knowledge management and motivation on halal small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the batik industry in Yogyakarta. Research on the mediating role of intellectual capital is still relatively novel in Indonesia. The study of the batik industry is particularly compelling, given that batik is an intangible asset recognized as UNESCO's cultural heritage. However, there is a noticeable decline in export value year by year. By focusing on halal batik SMEs, this study explores how halal certification can enhance these businesses' market appeal and export potential. The initial step of this research involves collecting data related to the research variables by distributing questionnaires to batik entrepreneurs in Yogyakarta. Subsequently, tests are conducted using PLS to analyze the results, examining the role of intellectual capital in mediating the impact of knowledge management and motivation on halal SMEs in the batik industry in Yogyakarta. The findings provide insights into how intellectual capital can influence the sustainability and growth of batik enterprises, offering strategies to counteract the declining export values and enhance the overall performance of these culturally significant businesses. Originality/Value: Unlike prior research, which focuses on global views and big industry, this study provides valuable insights for halal SMEs, particularly in the batik industry. The findings aim to elucidate how intellectual capital impacts the sustainability and growth of halal batik enterprises. It seeks to offer strategies to mitigate declining export values and enhance the overall performance of these culturally significant businesses, with a particular emphasis on leveraging the opportunities presented by halal certification.

Preface for the Special Issue of the Review of Socionetwork Strategies: Harnessing Social Networks, Technology, and Business Strategies for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Preface for the Special Issue of the Review of Socionetwork Strategies: Harnessing Social Networks, Technology, and Business Strategies for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Talent philosophies and institutional factors as determinants of talent management in SMEs: a French country-specific empirical investigation

PurposeTalent management (TM) is a crucial strategic issue for global organizations, extending beyond multinationals and big companies to encompass small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and contexts outside the Anglo-Saxon sphere. However, TM in SMEs is still under-researched, with a lack of studies and evidence on TM determinants and TM in practice. This study explores, using the lens of institutional theory, how talent philosophies and a combination of institutional factors shape TM in French SMEs, highlighting the interplay between these elements within the specific context of French SMEs.Design/methodology/approachGiven the limited knowledge about TM determinants in SMEs and the need to uncover and understand the phenomenon investigated, this study is exploratory in nature and lends itself to a qualitative research approach. In-depth semi-structured interviews with 27 CEOs, managers, TM and HR managers across 15 SMEs in France provided a comprehensive cross-industry perspective.FindingsThe study reveals that talent philosophies in French SMEs are predominantly inclusive and development-oriented, influenced by institutional factors such as the cultural logic of proximity and personalization, state support mechanisms like the Fonds Unique Interministériel (FUI) and legal frameworks that emphasize equal opportunity. Organizational elements like size and proximity foster a community-focused, egalitarian TM approach, while ownership and vulnerability lead to a reactive and informal TM strategy. The study presents a model that links these determinants to the specific TM approaches observed in French SMEs, illustrating how institutional factors like centralized control and egalitarianism shape TM practices.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper highlights the need for more empirical studies on talent philosophies, institutional and organizational factors not only in SMEs but also in comparison with multinational enterprises (MNEs), through institutional theory. Particular attention should be paid to the homogenization of SME sizes based on their level of establishment.Originality/valueThis study extends studies on TM determinants in SMEs, from the perspective of talent philosophies, utilizing insights from French institutional theory. It is also among the few and new studies to highlight contextual issues of TM as well as how TM is practiced depending on internal and external factors.

A thematic analysis of factors influencing small and medium enterprise adoption of social media marketing: a TOE framework perspective

Purpose This paper aims to examine the factors influencing the adoption of social media marketing by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan. By investigating the drivers and challenges/barriers affecting the adoption of social media marketing tools among SMEs, this study provides practical guidance to SMEs seeking to utilize social media platforms for marketing purposes in a developing context such as Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach Utilizing the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework as a theoretical framework, qualitative data were collected through semistructured interviews with representatives of SMEs in Pakistan, followed by thematic analysis of the data. Findings The research identifies several key factors influencing the adoption of social media marketing by Pakistani SMEs. These factors include doubts regarding the benefits of social media, alignment with regulatory requirements, challenges related to tracking social media performance, resistance from senior management (older employees), the positive influence of competitive pressure and the Covid-19 pandemic, political instability and increased government taxes on digital services. Stakeholders such as marketing professionals, academics, policymakers, government authorities and SME owners and managers can benefit from these findings. Originality/value This research contributes to the academic literature on the adoption of social media marketing by SMEs, especially within emerging economies. It enriches theoretical understanding of adoption processes and factors, filling gaps in existing knowledge and laying a foundation for future research in this domain. Using the TOE framework, the study reveals that when all factors are adequately considered, SMEs can transition from traditional marketing methods and embrace social media as a digital marketing strategy to enhance performance, profitability, and gain a competitive advantage over their rivals.

Proactive market orientation towards export performance within SMEs: a comparative study between the US and South Korea

ABSTRACT Drawing on dynamic capabilities (DC) theory, this paper examines the relationships between proactive market orientation (PMO) that captures new knowledge or information for a business market and export performance through exploration innovation (i.e. radical innovation) (EOR) and exploitation innovation (EOI) (i.e. incremental innovation) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in both the United States (US) and South Korea. As a quantitative research, data sets in each country were collected employing a non-probability sampling approach. For theoretical extension and identifying a crucial construct for export performance, partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) is employed, including multi-group analysis (MGA). This paper has demonstrated that PMO can influence export performance through EOR in combined data, including the US and South Korea. While PMO can affect export performance through EOR in the US, PMO cannot lead to export performance through either EOR or EOI in South Korea. For better export performance, this research proposes that SMEs in the US should keep re-shaping digital business models for EOR attributed to PMO. However, due to reliance on venture capital, both EOR and EOI should be pursued simultaneously for long-term export performance. In contrast, SMEs in South Korea should facilitate business process innovation (i.e. innovating firms) first to enhance export performance.

Exploring the Influence Factors of Digital Entrepreneurship in Improving the Digitization of Small and Medium Enterprises in Yemen

This research provides valuable insights into the impact of digital entrepreneurship on the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Yemen. By integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, the research examines the role of various factors-technological, organizational, environmental, and individual, affecting technology adoption and utilization in SMEs. The study primarily explores the direct and indirect influences of these factors on actual system use, with a particular focus on the mediating roles of perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use in shaping attitudes toward technology adoption. Data were collected through a survey of 392 respondents, and the results were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The measurement model was validated for reliability and accuracy, followed by an evaluation of the structural model to test the proposed hypotheses. The findings highlight the critical role of information and communication technology (ICT) adoption in enhancing both perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. Additionally, the knowledge of IT entrepreneurs and government support were found to uniquely influence perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, respectively. Both of these perceptions, in turn, positively impacted attitudes toward and the actual use of digital tools within SMEs. To address the challenges faced by Yemeni SMEs, it is recommended to enhance digitalization through ICT adoption and promote a pro-technology culture. Policymakers should create a supportive environment via targeted policies, subsidies, and public-private partnerships to foster sustainable growth and competitiveness.

Driving Digital Transformation: The Impact of SME Digitalization on Technology Acceptance and Usage in Small and Medium Enterprises of Yemen

This research investigates the relationships between digitalization, perceived usefulness, attitudes toward using technology, and actual system use of technologies within the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Yemen. Using a two-step structural equation modelling approach, the research investigates both direct and mediating effects. Data were gathered from 392 SMEs in Yemen by employing a survey research design. The measurement model was estimated to evaluate the constructs' accuracy, while the structural model was analyzed to investigate the proposed relationships. Findings reveal that SME digitalization significantly enhances perceived usefulness, which positively influences users' attitudes toward technology adoption and subsequently drives actual system use. Specifically, the analysis shows that improvements in digitalization practices lead to heightened perceptions of usefulness and favorable attitudes, ultimately resulting in increased actual system use. Moreover, the results indicate that perceived usefulness and attitudes serve as significant mediators between digitalization and system use. This research contributes to understanding how enhancing perceived usefulness and fostering positive attitudes can facilitate technology adoption in SMEs, providing important implications for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers focused on digital transformation. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of strategic digitalization efforts to improve operational efficiency and promote successful technology acceptance in small and medium enterprises.