Performance Of Small And Medium-sized Enterprises Research Articles

Utilizing blockchain technology in enhancing supply chain efficiency and export performance, and its implications on the financial performance of SMEs

This study examines the intricate relationships among Blockchain Technology utilization, Supply Chain Efficiency, Export Performance, and the Financial Performance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The research aims to elucidate the impact of technology adoption on various operational and financial aspects within the SME context. Employing a quantitative research design, data was collected from a diverse sample of SMEs across industries. The relationships were analyzed using statistical techniques, and the hypotheses were tested to uncover the implications of Blockchain Technology integration on SMEs' performance dimensions. The findings reveal that the adoption of Blockchain Technology significantly enhances Supply Chain Efficiency, underscoring its potential for optimizing operational workflows. However, the direct impact of technology on SME Financial Performance is not established, suggesting the importance of a holistic approach to financial growth. Moreover, the positive association between Blockchain Technology and Export Performance highlights the pivotal role of technology in fostering international trade success. Theoretical implications underscore the intricate interplay between technology adoption, operational efficiencies, and financial outcomes in SMEs. Managerially, the study advocates for SMEs to strategically integrate technology within their supply chain management practices to achieve enhanced efficiency and market competitiveness. Limitations include the potential for contextual variations and measurement biases. Future research can delve deeper into the moderating factors that influence the relationship between technology and financial performance in SMEs. The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive examination of the interrelationships between these factors within the SME context.

To Go or to Not Go Green for SMEs: Toward the Twinning Effect of Ecodesign Practices and Radical Innovativeness on SME Performance

Despite the burgeoning literature on green innovation, the research on how it influences the business performance of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is relatively scarce. For SMEs, environmental sustainability is becoming an increasingly crucial consideration in the design and conception of their business models. In this article, we explore the determinants of SME performance by investigating the relationship between the ecodesign practices and business performance of SMEs. To further explain and clarify their association, we propose a model for examining the mediating role of radical innovativeness, i.e., firms’ commercialization of an entirely novel idea, new to the firm and its markets. The data are obtained from a relatively heterogeneous sample of 370 SMEs cutting across many industries and regions in France. Structural equation modeling is then employed to analyze the collected data. By applying the concepts from resource-based view theory, we find that the relationship between ecodesign practices and business performance, as measured by financial and nonfinancial indicators, is better understood if the influence of radical innovativeness, as a mediating variable, is considered. By incorporating ecodesign practices and radical innovativeness into the analysis of SME performance, this study provides several important theoretical and practical implications for promoting green innovation for SMEs.

The Role of SMEs in the Economy: Analyzing the Financial Performance of Algerian SMEs

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represent a major pillar of the Algerian economy, accounting for 99.9% of businesses and employing over 3.3 million people. Despite their importance, these enterprises face complex challenges that affect their financial performance, measured by indicators such as return on assets (ROA). The study explores this performance's internal and external determinants, focusing on factors such as liquidity, debt levels, company size, and macroeconomic variables like GDP growth and inflation. Using the panel data method, we analyzed a sample of 40 SMEs over a five-year period (2018 to 2022). The results show that excessive liquidity, while seemingly prudent, has a negative effect on SME performance, as it limits investment opportunities. Similarly, short-term and long-term debt are associated with reduced profitability, contradicting some economic theories that view debt as a sign of good management. The limited access to credit often forces Algerian SMEs to rely on short-term financing, increasing their financial risks. In contrast, economic growth positively affects SME performance by boosting demand for their products and services. However, inflation has a negative effect, eroding profit margins due to rising operating costs. Thus, improving a company's performance is possible if the entity can create the conditions necessary for its survival and deploy the resources and logistics needed to achieve the desired objectives while aligning strategies across various activities to effectively implement its management policies. These research findings provide valuable insights for business leaders and policymakers, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to maximize the financial performance of SMEs by considering these various factors.

The effects of CEO duality, board size, and informal social networks on sustainable innovation and firm performance.

Corporate governance affects the ownership and control of a firm. Conflicts between agents, managers and shareholders caused the crises of WorldCom, Enron, Tyco and Lehman Brothers. Therefore, the impact of chief executive officer (CEO) duality or board size on sustainable innovation and performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is relevant for research and evaluation. This may reflect the CEO style that supports long-term business growth with limited resources to enhance accountability, fast decision-making, and minimise hindrances to governance, particularly in emerging markets like India. The finding will help SMEs in maintaining their long-term viability. The current study examines the impact of CEO duality, board size, and informal social networks on sustainable innovation, governance, and performance of Indian SMEs to enable management to assess the significance of factors that contribute to firms’ sustainable performance

Analyzing the future of e-commerce adoption by SMEs amid the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the use of technology to become increasingly massive and has an impact on increasing business trends through e-commerce. Failure to be proactive and adapt to change will cause business disruption in the near future. The adoption of e-commerce is the right solution for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to be ready to compete and survive in the crisis era. This study aims to analyze technological, organizational and environmental factors on e-commerce adoption and the impact of e-commerce adoption on the performance and competitive advantage of SMEs in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. The object of this research is 100 SMEs in Jambi City, Indonesia. The sampling technique was non-random sampling with type purposive sampling. Data were collected by distributing questionnaires online to selected respondents. The findings of this study underscore the significant influence of technological, organizational, and environmental factors on the adoption of e-commerce among SMEs in Jambi City. Moreover, SMEs in Jambi City perceive that effectively embracing e-commerce can yield desired outcomes, enhancing their performance and competitive edge in the business landscape. Furthermore, the advantages of electronic commerce extend to the convenience of round-the-clock business operations from any geographical location, thus amplifying its appeal and utility for SMEs.

Motivating the Workforce: A Key to Enhancing Financial Performance in Lebanese SMEs

Employee motivation is a critical factor influencing the financial performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Lebanon. In a challenging economic landscape marked by political instability and financial uncertainty, understanding how to effectively motivate employees becomes essential for business success. This study examines the relationship between employee motivation and financial performance within Lebanese SMEs. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected from 250 SME employees and managers through a structured questionnaire. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between employee motivation and key financial performance indicators, including productivity, profitability, and employee retention. The results suggest that SMEs that prioritize motivational strategies, such as recognition, career development, and supportive workplace environments, experience enhanced financial outcomes. The study concludes with recommendations for SME owners and managers to implement effective motivational practices, thereby fostering a motivated workforce that contributes to sustainable business growth and success in the Lebanese market.

Designing an Agile Marketing Model for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Iran (Case Study: SMEs in the Northwest Regions of Iran)

Objective: The aim of this research was to design and propose an agile marketing model for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Iran using a grounded theory approach. The study investigated the factors influencing the implementation of agile marketing, its enablers, barriers, and outcomes in SMEs located in the northwest regions of Iran. Methodology: This study employed a mixed-method approach (qualitative and quantitative). In the qualitative phase, theoretical sampling was conducted until theoretical saturation was reached through 21 semi-structured interviews, and the data were analyzed using the grounded theory method. In the quantitative phase, field data were collected via questionnaires from 406 SMEs in the provinces of East Azerbaijan, West Azerbaijan, Ardabil, and Zanjan, and the data were analyzed using statistical methods. Findings: The findings revealed that agile marketing improves the skills of specialized employees, enhances customer-centricity, and increases the competitiveness of SMEs. Furthermore, the role of digital technologies and data analytics as facilitators in the successful implementation of this approach was confirmed. Barriers such as organizational resistance and the complexity of the business environment were also identified as factors hindering agile marketing implementation. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that agile marketing can significantly enhance the performance and competitiveness of SMEs in turbulent markets. However, successful implementation requires appropriate infrastructure, digital technologies, and cultural changes within the organization. Agile marketing is proposed as an effective strategy for improving marketing and market management capabilities in SMEs.

ТЕОРЕТИЧЕСКИЕ ОСНОВЫ РАЗРАБОТКИ СИСТЕМЫ ПОКАЗАТЕЛЕЙ ДЛЯ ОБЕСПЕЧЕНИЯ УСТОЙЧИВОГО РАЗВИТИЯ МСП В УСЛОВИЯХ ЦИФРОВОЙ ТРАНСФОРМАЦИИ

In the context of digital transformation of the economy, ensuring sustainable development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is becoming a critical task for the Russian economy. This article is devoted to the analysis and systematization of theoretical approaches to the development of a system of indicators for the performance of SMEs, the use of which will allow choosing effective strategies for ensuring sustainable development of enterprises. The paper considers the features of assessing the sustainability of SMEs, the goals and areas of application of the results, which allows us to determine the specific aspects that distinguish this system from existing analogues. The main attention is paid to the requirements for indicators: complexity, adaptability, simplicity and accessibility, accuracy and reliability. The system of indicators is aimed at optimizing business processes, sustainable development, increasing competitiveness and risk management. The use of assessment results allows for strategic planning, improving operational processes, introducing innovations and increasing the social and environmental responsibility of enterprises.

CHALLENGES AND FACTORS AFFECTING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF SME-s IN ALBANIA

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are crucial for the economic development of a country, playing an important role in job creation, poverty alleviation and economic growth. SMEs play a major role in most economies, particularly in developing countries. SMEs account for the majority of businesses worldwide and are important contributors to job creation and global economic development. In Albania, SMEs represent more than 99% of the total number of enterprises and the percentage of employees in this sector is 82% (INSTAT, 2023). For this reason, identifying factors affecting the development of SMEs in Albania is very important, in order to take all the necessary steps to reduce barriers as well as create opportunities and facilities for supporting this sector. Small and medium-sized enterprises play an important role in the development of the national economy, influencing sustainable growth in the agriculture, services, trade, and production sectors. They are major contributors to value creation across all sectors. The development of SMEs, especially in transition countries faces several difficulties such as limited access to finance, increased competition, low research and development costs, high levels of exposure to risk, technological change, and capacity constraints related to knowledge and innovation. As an important factor for economic growth and employment, it is important to evaluate the performance of SMEs in the country as well as the constraints and challenges they face. The purpose of this study is to analyze and evaluate the factors that affect the sustainable development of the SMEs sector. The findings of the study are relevant to government, policymakers and managers to address these challenges, to encourage and offer support to SMEs’ development through their strategies.

ESG in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: Malaysian Perspectives

The financial health of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is crucial for sustaining and fostering economic development in developing countries. The integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) has been promoted as contributing to the financial performance of SMEs. This study explores the ESG in SMEs by reviewing on the regulatory framework associated with the ESG commitments in the Malaysian setting. Review is done on the evidence linking between ESG and financial performance. This study also reviews the benefits and challenges of ESG commitments among the Malaysian SMEs. This study provides an understanding on how ESG commitment of the SMEs can be strategically mobilised to enhance their financial performance. The review intends to expand the strategic perspectives of SMEs, shifting ESG from a peripheral component of corporate social responsibility to an integral driver of competitive advantage and value creation.

Unveiling Capital Structure Determinants, Business Characteristics and High-Growth Performance of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: Evidence from Nigeria

Recent interest among both SME operators and academics/professionals in determining what factors influence the capital structure and performance of SMEs has increased. Possible cause includes increased focus on the role that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in driving economic growth. This research evaluated the factors that influence small and medium-sized enterprises' capital structures, as well as their performance predictors, financial accessibility factors, firm characteristics that predict their capital structures, and the impact of capital structure on SMEs' profitability. It was decided to conduct a survey study, with the help of a properly designed questionnaire. The population included both small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners and operators in the study area (South-West, Nigeria). Four hundred small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) purposefully chosen using purposive and proportionate procedure from each state in the region and asked to fill out an online questionnaire (Google Form) to collect the data. This study found a significant relationship between capital structure and the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria's Southwest region. Formal strategic plans, consistent operational procedures, positive work relationships, and the presence of formal business plans were found to have a significant impact on the financial decisions of SMEs, thereby improving overall business performance. Furthermore, the factors influencing SMEs' capital structure decisions include both strategic and organisational components, emphasising the importance of formal strategic planning, consistent operational procedures, positive work relationships, and formal business plans.

Determinants of Economic Sustainability: Exploring the Role of Knowledge Management with the Mediating Influence of Green Innovation in Pakistani Manufacturing SMEs

This study investigates the interconnected dynamics of knowledge management, green innovation, and economic performance within the context of manufacturing Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Lahore, Pakistan. The primary objective is to explore the impact of knowledge management on the economic performance of SMEs and ascertain the mediating role of green innovation in this relationship. The study adopts a quantitative research design grounded in positivism, targeting a population of manufacturing SMEs operating in Lahore. A sample size of 300 managerial-level employees is selected using a simple random sampling strategy, and data is collected through a survey instrument. The findings of the study reveal a significant positive effect of knowledge management on the economic performance of SMEs, affirming the crucial role of effective knowledge-sharing practices in fostering economic success. Furthermore, the study identifies a significant mediating effect of green innovation, highlighting the importance of incorporating environmentally sustainable practices in the innovation processes of SMEs. This research contributes novelty by contextualizing these relationships within the specific industrial landscape of Lahore, Pakistan, filling a gap in the existing literature. The incorporation of green innovation as a mediator adds a unique dimension to the study, emphasizing the relevance of sustainable practices in driving economic performance for SMEs in Lahore.

Optimizing SME performance through KPI utilization

Purpose. This research aims to investigate how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can strategically leverage key performance indicators (KPIs) to enhance their performance and competitiveness in the dynamic business landscape. Through a multifaceted research methodology, including secondary data analysis, case studies, comparative analysis, and future trends analysis, the study seeks to address the specific challenges faced by SMEs and provide actionable insights for optimizing performance through KPI utilization. Results. The findings of this research reveal the intricacies of SME performance challenges, ranging from financial constraints to operational complexities. Through a comprehensive examination of theoretical foundations and real-world case studies, the study demonstrates successful strategies used by SMEs in effectively utilizing KPIs. The comparative analysis identifies patterns and distinctions in KPI deployment across industries, enriching the understanding of tailored approaches. The forward-looking future trends analysis anticipates advancements in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and technological tools that will shape the landscape of SME performance measurement. Scientific novelty. This research contributes to the field by offering a nuanced exploration of challenges faced by SMEs and the transformative potential of KPIs within their unique operational environments. The comparative analysis and future trends exploration add a novel dimension, providing a forward-looking perspective on the evolving landscape of KPI utilization in SMEs. The research pioneers an investigation into emerging technologies and methodologies, positioning itself at the forefront of anticipating future trends in SME performance measurement. Practical value. The practical value of this research lies in its provision of actionable insights for SME leaders, policymakers, and researchers seeking to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of SMEs. By synthesizing theoretical foundations with real-world examples, the study offers practical guidance on addressing challenges and optimizing performance through KPI utilization. The exploration of tools, technologies, and future trends equips SMEs with the knowledge needed to navigate the intricate business landscape effectively.

A perspective of international performance improvement concentrating on innovation and digital resilience of SMEs: the case of an emerging economy

PurposeDespite the wide research and discussion on international performance, innovation and digital resilience dimensions of enterprises, the investigation and understanding of their interrelations seem to be limited. The purpose of this study is to identify the influential factors affecting the mentioned dimensions, determine the causal relationships among these identified factors and finally evaluate their importance in an aggregated framework from the viewpoint of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Design/methodology/approachA hybrid methodology is used to achieve the objectives. First, the main factors of international performance, innovation and digital resilience are extracted by an in-depth review of the literature. These factors are then screened by expert opinions to localize them in accordance with the conditions of an emerging economy. Finally, the relationship and the importance of the factors are determined using an uncertain multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach.FindingsThe findings reveal that there is a correlation between digital resilience and innovation, and both factors have an impact on the international performance of SMEs. The cause-or-effect nature of the factors belonging to each dimension is also determined. Among the effect factors, business model innovation (BMI), agility, product and organizational innovation are known as the most important factors. International knowledge, personal drivers and digital transformation are also determined to be the most important cause factors.Originality/valueThis study extends the literature both in methodological and practical directions. Practically, the study aggregates the factors in the mentioned dimensions and provides insights into their cause-and-effect interrelations. Methodologically, the study proposes an uncertain MCDM approach that has been rarely used in previous studies in this field.

The role of management accounting on the relationship between corporate social responsibility and performance in SMEs

PurposeThis study aims to explore corporate social responsibility (CSR) implementation in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and examines the role of management accounting practices (MAPs) in the relationship between CSR and performance in SMEs.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey was conducted among 1,000 SMEs in the southern region of Malaysia, and 203 valid replies were received.FindingsThe results indicate that most SMEs are informed about their social responsibilities across several CSR dimensions. There is evidence that supports the significant direct relationship between CSR and firm performance, and MAPs significantly and indirectly contribute to the effect of CSR on firm performance.Originality/valueThe findings contribute to an understanding of how the integration of CSR and MAPs can amplify the effect of CSR implementation on performance in SMEs. The finding may be useful for the relevant policymakers to increase socially responsible activities among SMEs to spur further growth for SMEs and society. SMEs may acknowledge MAPs as a significant intermediary in making CSR activities financially and operationally feasible.

Exporting is a team sport: the link between management training and performance in SMEs

PurposeThis paper examines how soft skills training for owner-managers affects the financial performance of exporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Furthermore, the authors examine the differential influence of specific owner-manager skills, such as “team working skills”, “technical skills” and “leadership skills”, on performance.Design/methodology/approachThe paper utilises the Longitudinal Small Business Survey, which is a nationally representative employer dataset of UK SMEs with up to 249 employees, including those with no employees. The dataset contains information on firms' turnover, export status of goods or services and training provision for employees or owner-managers.FindingsThe results suggest that owner-manager's training has a positive effect on turnover in non-exporting firms. Moreover, a combination of soft and hard skills is associated with higher turnover in exporting firms. Amongst the specific skills of owner-managers, training on “team working” has the most significant impact on exporting SMEs' performance.Practical implicationsThe authors' findings imply that managerial training to develop soft skills such as leadership, decision-making and communication is a worthwhile investment. The knowledge that owner-managers acquire through soft and hard skills training enables them to develop essential internationalisation competencies. Moreover, the authors demonstrate that teamwork is a significant predictor of performance.Originality/valueThe authors contribute to the literature by examining the role of owner-managers' training in shaping internal systems, structure, processes and internationalisation strategies, thus affecting SMEs performance. The authors' also provide a nuanced analysis of how various types of soft and hard skills underpin the successful implementation of internationalisation initiatives.

Strategic transitions: unraveling the impact of socioemotional wealth and generational cohorts on succession planning in family SMEs

PurposeThe complexity of succession in family firms is multifaceted and can sometimes lead to turbulence. While structured succession strategies offer a roadmap for smoother transitions, intergenerational differences in family small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can lead to varied interpretations of an effective succession blueprint. This study synergizes the strategic entrepreneurship framework with the socioemotional wealth (SEW) perspective to probe into how formalized succession planning impacts performance in family SMEs. Furthermore, it delves into the mediating role of succession satisfaction, especially in family firms characterized by pronounced SEW and helmed by CEOs from different generational cohorts.Design/methodology/approachEmploying a comprehensive dataset from 1,833 global family businesses, this research utilizes bootstrapping regression models to discern the intertwined effects of mediator and moderator variables and their statistical significance.FindingsThe main findings suggest that succession satisfaction does matter for a good succession process and that succession plans work only in family firms with a high degree of SEW and that are led by older family CEOs (e.g. baby boomers).Practical implicationsThe results offer fresh perspectives on succession processes, with a particular focus on how to improve the satisfaction of millennial family CEOs.Originality/valueThe study uniquely combines strategic entrepreneurship and SEW to offer a holistic view of succession planning, highlighting satisfaction’s mediating role and SEW’s moderating influence. Additionally, it pioneers the incorporation of generational cohorts into the succession discourse.

Prestige over profit, corporate social responsibility boosts corporate sustainable performance: mediation roles of brand image and brand loyalty

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on corporate sustainable performance (CSP) of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by looking into the significance of mediating factors, namely, brand image (BI) and brand loyalty (BL), within the context of an emerging economy.Design/methodology/approachThe authors conduct an extensive literature study on the subjects of CSR, BI and BL to assess their influence on the sustainable performance of SMEs in an emerging market. The study adopts a quantitative methodology. A total of 438 answers were obtained from a sample size of 513. The data of the SMEs in Vietnam was analyzed using the smart partial least squares structural equation modeling software, specifically version 3.3.2.FindingsThe results of the authors demonstrate notable and favorable correlations between CSR and CSP, CSR and BI and CSR and BL. Importantly, the findings contribute to existing knowledge by looking into the mediating influence of BI and BL in the relationship between CSR and CSP.Originality/valueAccording to the authors’ understanding, a number of research have investigated the correlation between CSR and CSP within the realm of SMEs. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of scholarly research examining the mediating function of BI and BL in this association. The study’s findings have important implications for entrepreneurs and senior management in effectively guiding their enterprises and improving their business strategies with an emphasis on sustainability in emerging markets. The outcome of this study has the potential to significantly contribute to SMEs in Vietnam as well as other emerging countries.

The Use of Social Media Platforms for Competitive Information and Knowledge Sharing and Its Effect on SMEs’ Profitability and Growth through Innovation

Traditionally, corporations obtain competitive information via marketing reports, trade journals, newspapers, and competitors’ websites. That information was secondary and limited. With the widespread usage of Web 2.0 technologies, social media platforms (SMPs) are used by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to search for information about their customers, competitors, and markets. SMEs are the engine of economic growth and effective solution to poverty and unemployment. There is also a growing use of SMPs to facilitate knowledge sharing, which leads to developing new ideas and sharing new knowledge, boosting creativity and efficiency, and assisting in achieving goals. This study aims to examine the effect of those uses of SMPs on Saudi SMEs’ performance growth and profitability through innovation. To evaluate 220 valid online questionnaire responses, we used SmartPLS 4 through a PLS-based structural equation model. The results show the positive direct effect of using SMPs for customer information and knowledge sharing on SME innovation in emerging economies and the indirect effect of those uses on SME performance growth and profitability. As a result, Saudi SME decision makers are advised to improve their effectiveness in using SMPs to acquire customer information and use it for knowledge sharing because those uses will positively influence innovation and increase SME growth and profitability.

Bookkeeping practices and SME performance: The intervening role of owners’ accounting skills

Aside from statutory requirements, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) hardly take into consideration reliable accounting systems. Therefore, poor and ineffective bookkeeping has contributed to the collapse of some SMEs. This paper examines the intervening role of owners' accounting skills in the relationship between bookkeeping practices and the performance of SMEs in the Ho Municipal Assembly of Ghana using a sample of 296 SMEs. In a structural equation modelling (SEM) framework, the Smart Partial Least Squares (Smart-PLS) software is employed to analyse the relationships between owners' accounting skills, bookkeeping practices, and the performance of SMEs. We find that bookkeeping practices and owners' accounting skills have significant positive effects on the performance of SMEs. Most importantly, we show the existence of a significant indirect relationship between bookkeeping practices and SME performance such that owners' accounting skills positively intervenes the relationship between bookkeeping practices and SME performance. Thus, in the presence of higher owners’ accounting skills, the relationship between bookkeeping and the performance of SMEs is strengthened further. In a typical emerging economy context, while appropriate regulatory bodies, such as the National Board for Small Scale Industries (NBSSI), in the Ghanaian context, and local revenue collection authorities could put forth measures like periodic compliance audits to ensure that registered SMEs are managed by skilled personnel, fostering them to meet basic requirements for keeping records and managing their accounts to improve their performance, it is worth acknowledging that the onus lies on SME managers to recognise the relevance of good recordkeeping and account management practices to ensure sustained business performance.