Small Enterprises Research Articles

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.

Environmental, Social and Governance Performance on Brand Value in the Context of “Dual Carbon”: The Mediating Effect of R&D Innovation

As an important asset of an enterprise, brand value reflects its competitive position in the market. With the proposed goal of “carbon peak” and “carbon neutrality”, the development of enterprises is paying more and more attention to ESG performance (that is, the performance of enterprises in environmental, social and governance aspects), and the attention of brand management is slowly shifting away from traditional products and markets into being green and sustainable. In order to verify the relationship between ESG performance and brand value, this study takes Chinese A-share listed enterprises from 2012 to 2021 as research samples to reveal the mechanism of ESG performance’s impact on brand value. The results show that ESG performance can significantly improve brand value, indicating that the investment in ESG will ultimately affect brand value. The mediation mechanism analysis shows that R&D innovation plays a mediating role in the relationship between the two. A heterogeneity analysis shows that the ESG performance of state-owned enterprises and large enterprises has a stronger promoting effect on brand value, while small enterprises do not show heterogeneity. The research results provide new evidence to reveal the impact of ESG performance on brand management, and have reference significance for ESG construction, brand marketing innovation, and corporate green innovation.

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)

State of the Art on High Performance Work Systems Research: A Bibliometrics Study

This systematic data-driven review examines current state of the literature on high performance work systems (HPWS) and identifies future research directions in the human resource development (HRD) literature, using bibliometric analysis and content analysis of 789 peer-reviewed articles published between 1996 and 2021. Firstly, this study presents yearly trends, influential articles, journals, and countries in the HPWS literature. Moreover, by employing bibliographic coupling and content analysis in conjunction, this study reveals the following key research themes: (1) HPWS and organizational performance, (2) HPWS and individual-level outcomes, (3) Human Resource (HR) systems-HPWS-performance link, and (4) Diversification of the HPWS research contexts. Based on the findings, we propose future research directions for HRD scholars, including the need to investigate the influences of HPWS utilization in the contexts of pandemic and uncertainty, sustainability, the adoption of HPWS in small and medium-sized enterprises, and the dark side of HPWS.

The dynamics of digitalisation of ultra-micro, micro, small, and medium enterprises during COVID-19 pandemic and recovery periods: evidence from Indonesia

The dynamics of digitalisation of ultra-micro, micro, small, and medium enterprises during COVID-19 pandemic and recovery periods: evidence from Indonesia

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.

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.

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.

Tanggung Jawab Pelaku UMKM Sebagai Merchant Dalam E-commerce

Introduction: The dynamics of globalization and technological advances have changed the business world significantly, especially with rapid developments in the field of electronic commerce (e-commerce). Significant growth in this field is expected to make a positive contribution to the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by expanding market access.Purposes of the Research: To find out and analyze the responsibilities of MSME actors as merchants in e-commerce.Methods of the Research: The legal research method used in studying this problem is normative juridical, which is based on primary, secondary and tertiary legal materials, and uses a statutory approach and a conceptual approach.Results of the Research: The results of this research show that quite a few business actors do not fulfill their obligations, namely being responsible for fulfilling consumer rights. The form of consumer rights that is violated by business actors in a food product for consumption by consumers is stated in Article 4 point (3) regarding the provision of correct and clear information about a product, goods and/or services. Therefore, business actors are obliged to follow food production standards and maintain product quality in order to meet consumer needs and satisfaction. To protect consumers from business actors whose rights are not fulfilled, the Consumer Protection Law provides protection to consumers in two forms, namely preventatively and repressively. By using strict liability, the application of absolute responsibility solves problems faced by consumers without the need to prove fault, so that consumer rights based on this responsibility can provide legal protection

Influence of Credit Limitations on the Growth of Small Enterprises in Fragile States: The case of Bosaso, Somalia

In recent years, the development of small enterprises has emerged as a vital component of economic growth and poverty alleviation in many countries. This study aimed to investigate the influence of credit limitations on the growth of Small Enterprises in Bosaso, Somalia. To achieve this objective primary data was collected and analyzed employing content analysis and multiple regression analysis. The study revealed that a majority of small enterprises in Bosaso have access to credit, with Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and banks being the primary sources. However, a significant minority still lacks access to credit, mainly due to weak banking infrastructure and insufficient collateral. Small enterprises face numerous challenges when seeking loans, including insufficient guarantor, Political instability, limited financial infrastructure, high interest rates, and limited collateral. These challenges hinder their ability to access credit, limiting their growth potential. Also, the regression analysis indicated a positive and significant relationship between credit availability and small enterprise growth. Conversely, the access to loan and the cost of credit were found to have negative impacts on growth. On the other hand, Small Enterprises in Bosaso employ various coping strategies to overcome credit limitations, including informal financing, asset-based financing, diversification of income streams, cost reduction measures, and seeking grants or donor funding. Based on these findings, the authors made several recommendations to address the challenges and enhance the growth prospects of small enterprises in Bosaso, Somalia.

“Sweeten the (i)-deal”: unveiling power and influence dynamics in family small and medium-sized enterprises

PurposeFamily small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represent a substantial part of many economies. In these organizations, close and informal relationships between employers and employees often foster a mutual understanding of each other’s needs, facilitating the negotiation of idiosyncratic deals (i-deals), special employment conditions tailored for individual employees. However, research on how i-deals are negotiated in family SMEs, especially regarding power dynamics and influence, remains limited. This study aims to identify the types of i-deals negotiated in family SMEs and explore the role of power and influence in these negotiations.Design/methodology/approachSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 45 employees and 15 employers from Spanish family SMEs. Data were analyzed using ATLAS.ti 8, and thematic analysis was performed.FindingsThe study concludes that task, flexibility, financial and development i-deals are particularly negotiated in family SMEs. It identifies that referent and expert power play an important role in initiating these negotiations. Furthermore, rational tactics are generally employed for negotiating work performance, soft tactics for employment-related aspects and hard tactics for work flexibility. Additionally, the study identified gender differences in the negotiation of i-deals.Research limitations/implicationsThis study enhances i-deal literature by highlighting the distinct characteristics of family SMEs and their impact on i-deal negotiations. The findings suggest that power dynamics and influence tactics in family SMEs differ from those in larger firms. Moreover, certain i-deals may encounter resistance due to concerns about organizational performance and economic implications. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective negotiation strategies in family SMEs.Originality/valueThis study offers a dual perspective, analyzing the power and influence tactics used by both employees and employers in family SME i-deal negotiations and highlighting gendered dynamics in these processes.

The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Performance of Food and Beverage Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs): A Case Study of Langsa City, Aceh Province

The PSBB and PPKM policies were perceived to have caused economic downturns by restricting community activities, including productive economic endeavors. The primary issue in this study is the decline in the GDP of the accommodation food, and beverage sectors in Langsa City in 2020. The research objectives are formulated as follows: (1) to analyze the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the income of food and beverage MSMEs in Langsa City; (2) to analyze the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the production levels of food and beverage MSMEs in Langsa City; (3) to analyze the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the assets of food and beverage MSMEs in Langsa City; and (4) to analyze the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the workforce of food and beverage MSMEs in Langsa City. The study was conducted in Langsa City, Aceh Province, utilizing primary data, A purposive sample of 50 MSME owners in Langsa City was selected. Respondents were not categorized by business scale (micro or small businesses). The accidental sampling method was used to determine respondents and data was collected through structured interviews using a questionnaire. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the performance of food and beverage MSMEs in Langsa City was analyzed using for indicators: (1) MSME income, (2) sales volume, (3) assets, and (4) workforce size. A descriptive analysis was performed, followed by a paired sample t-test (with a = 0.05) to compare conditions before and during the Covid-19 pandemic. The analysis concluded that: (1) there was a significant decline in the income of food and beverage MSMEs in Langsa City during the Covid-19 pandemic; (2) there was a significant decline in sales volume; (3) there was a significant reduction in the value of MSME assets; and (4) there was a significant decrease in the number of employees. Keywords: Business, Assets, Number of Employees, Income, Sales, MSMEs

FACTORS INFLUENCING CLOUD COMPUTING ADOPTION : TECHNOLOGY, ORGANIZATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENT (TOE) FRAMEWORK APPROACH

The latest technology that must be applied to prepare for modernity is based on information technology. This technology is not only used by large companies (enterprises) but can also be utilized by Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). One of the utilization of technology is cloud computing by Micro and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) which is increasingly widespread. This is reasonable because cloud computing technology provides benefits with a simpler process and relatively low costs. In line with this, this study aims to determine the factors that influence the adoption of cloud computing in MSMEs. An integrated model was developed based on the Technology, Organization, and Environment (TOE) framework. This research data was obtained through a structured survey questionnaire given to 150 MSME owners/managers in the Soloraya Region. The results obtained through SEM-PLS analysis show that factors such as organizational readiness and competitor pressure have a significant effect on cloud computing adoption in MSMEs in the Soloraya Region. However, factors of relative advantage, complexity, and top management support were found to have no significant effect on cloud computing adoption. This research provides a theoretical contribution to the expansion of the TOE Framework.

Enhancing Sales Volume to Optimized Retail Marketing Strategy: Case Study on MSMEs Retail in Bantul, Yogyakart

The retail industry in Indonesia has experienced significant growth, particularly with the increasing presence of modern retail chains that challenge the sustainability of local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). MSMEs in the retail sector, especially in regions like Bantul, Indonesia, face mounting competition from these larger and better-funded players. This study investigates how MSMEs can enhance their sales volume by adopting more effective retail marketing strategies. Grounded in marketing theory, specifically the principles of modern merchandising, category management, pricing, promotion, and supplier relationship management, this research aims to determine the strategies that are most impactful for MSME retailers in a competitive market. Using a qualitative case study methodology, data were collected from interviews with MSME owners, direct observations, and sales data analysis of selected retailers in Bantul. The findings reveal that MSMEs implementing modern marketing techniques, such as improved merchandising displays, competitive pricing strategies, and strategic supplier negotiations, were able to increase their sales volumes despite facing strong competition from established retail chains. Furthermore, businesses that incorporated digital tools for promotions and customer engagement saw a noticeable improvement in customer loyalty and sales growth. In the discussion, the study emphasizes that while the adoption of modern retail strategies is critical, MSMEs still face challenges such as limited financial and technological resources, which hinder their ability to fully compete with larger retailers. Nonetheless, the findings demonstrate that targeted marketing strategies, particularly in supplier relationships and pricing techniques, offer MSMEs a sustainable path to growth. The study concludes that for MSMEs to thrive in the competitive retail environment, they must adopt a hybrid approach that combines traditional retail techniques with modern marketing innovations. Future research should focus on the role of digital transformation in further enhancing the competitiveness of MSMEs in the retail sector. Keywords: Sales Volume, Retail Marketing, MSMEs

Resilience and Recovery: MSME Marketing Mix Strategies Amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) sector. Although the pandemic has caused most sectors to experience huge losses, SFC Dobel Tree as one of the MSMEs in Bojonegoro Regency is able to survive and be able to develop its business until after the pandemic. The right marketing strategy is important for MSMEs to maintain their existence. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the Marketing Mix Strategy used by SFC Dobel Tree after the Covid-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study is to describe the Marketing Mix carried out by SFC Dobel Tree after the Covid-19 pandemic. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method with interview techniques and direct observation. The results showed that SFC Dobel Tree implemented through segmenting, targeting, and positioning (STP) to target its target market and implemented its marketing strategy by establishing a marketing mix and successfully overcoming challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. The strategy includes product, promotion, people, process and physical evidence.

Governance and Leadership in Enhancing SME Resilience in Ghana: A Systematic Literature Review

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are especially susceptible to pandemics. Consequently, resilience and adaptability to shocks from pandemics like COVID-19 are crucial. Nonetheless, although SMEs have strategies to cope with these, there is still a dearth of research on the nature and effectiveness of these coping strategies. Thus, it remains unclear how leadership and governance frameworks reduce SMEs’ vulnerability and increase their resilience to pandemic risk. This academic article provides a systematic literature review on the role of governance and leadership in enhancing the resilience of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. The review explores existing literature on SME resilience, environmental uncertainty, and the impact of governance frameworks. The article also focuses on how leadership practices in the Ghanaian context contribute to building SME resilience in times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The study analysis revealed that there are opportunities for SMEs to adopt better governance and leadership practices that foster long-term resilience. Governance practices, such as formal structures, board diversity, and leadership, enable SMEs to respond to crises and navigate challenging situations. Moreover, leadership styles that prioritize governance procedures, especially transformational leadership, empower SMEs to maintain agility and innovation, thereby securing their survival and growth in a rapidly evolving environment. The review highlights the need for stronger governance frameworks and leadership development programs that equip SME owner-managers with the tools to navigate environmental uncertainties.

Penilaian Penerapan Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) pada Proses Produksi Dimsum (Studi Kasus : UMKM XYZ)

Dimsum is a high-risk food category because it uses basic ingredients of chicken meat and these ingredients have a water content of around 65-80% and a high pH of around 6-7, as well as easily degraded and easy to grow microorganisms. This study aims to assess the application of GMP in the production process in Aceh Dimsum Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) and the application of GMP is the basic requirement for granting a distribution permit certificate for the Deep Food (MD) category by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM). In this study, the assessment of the application of GMP in dimsum production process was carried out using the Gap Assessment method by assessing the suitability and non-conformity of the GMP aspects applied. The assessment is carried out by giving value weight to the finding of nonconformity based on the category of nonconformity. From the results of the research that has been carried out, conformity findings, nonconformity findings, and GMP aspect findings that are not applied to the production process are obtained. There are 17 points of conformity findings applied from 12 aspects of GMP. There were 51 points of nonconformity findings found from 21 aspects of GMP. There are 2 points of aspects that do not apply or are not used to UMKM from 2 aspects of GMP (aspects of internal testing laboratories and aspects of water, ice, gas and energy (electricity, fuel). Based on the amount of value weighted obtained from the findings of nonconformity, the score obtained by UMKM is around a score of 78. Based on this score, the level (rating) of UMKM is rating D. The conclusion that can be drawn is that UMKM need to make improvements to the discrepancies found in the production process.

The Development of MSMEs in India: a Bibliometric Analysis

This paper aims to evaluate the structure and evolutionary trend of research on development in MSMEs in India using a bibliometric examination. An analysis of academic research from 2008 to 2022 was conducted using bibliometric methods, searching for the terms used in emergent technologies. The research is intended to assess the development of micro, small, and medium companies and understand how far this topic has been achieved. Several research methods were applied, including the network method, thematic maps, and coefficients of approaching or intellectual tools. The result of this work can be helpful for new scholars and current trends, based on the study trends to achieve sustainable development goals against poverty, micro MSMEs (Micro Small Medium Enterprises), and unemployment. The highlight of the report stresses on the key issues where researchers are giving more focus which includes innovation and supply chain strategies. The findings from the study serve to enhance our understanding about areas within the extant research literature where less is known, particularly when it comes to advances and barriers that impact Micro, small-and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The present study will imbibe researchers and the experts from industry to have a profound insight into intellectual domains surrounding certain technologies that can facilitate growth of MSMEs in India, as well provide above detailed unattended research scope. The research concerning MSMEs has undoubtedly provided many facts about the growth and development of these enterprises, applicable particularly in India. To describe the research and intellectual progress on the Manufacturing industry, a bibliometric approach was used in this study. A comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis were employed to get trustworthy results.

The effectiveness of implementing the HACCP system to ensure the quality of food products in regions with ecological problems

This study developed and implemented a specific HACCP plan for the meat pate “Phirmennyi” at the small meat processing enterprise “Alteev” in Semey, Kazakhstan. The research, conducted in collaboration with the Department of Food Production Technology and Biotechnology at Shakarim University, was carried out in an area affected by the ecological consequences of the former Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site. The study aimed to identify critical control points (CCPs) and assess potential risks following the Technical Regulations of the Customs Union. Additionally, it evaluated the effectiveness of the HACCP plan in reducing contaminants, such as heavy metals, radionuclides, and pesticides, while considering the region’s environmental impact on food safety and quality. Standard procedures were followed for hazard analysis, CCP identification, setting critical limits, monitoring, corrective actions, verification, and record-keeping. Heavy metals were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, while Cs-137 radionuclides were analyzed with scintillation and semiconductor gamma spectrometers. Statistical analysis was conducted in Microsoft Excel to compute mean values, standard deviations, and correlations, with significance defined at p ≤ 0.05. Five CCPs were identified during the production of an experimental batch of meat pâté, including raw material acceptance, blanching, cooking, cooling, and packaging/storage. Implementing this plan resulted in a reduction in contaminants, including a decrease in lead from 0.55 to 0.51 mg/kg, arsenic from 0.12 to 0.07 mg/kg, and Cs-137 from 7.2 to 6.8 Bq/kg. By addressing both the contaminants and the specific environmental context of the region, this research demonstrates the critical role of a well-structured food safety plan. The HACCP system not only improved food quality but also ensured compliance with safety standards, providing reassurance to consumers. This case study advocates for broader adoption of food safety management in regions with similar ecological challenges, promoting a more sustainable and secure food supply chain.

Exploring the Role of Knowledge on Adoptability of Islamic Banking and Financing Options for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises: The Mediating Role of Trialability

Knowledge is the act of knowing something with familiarity gained through experience or education. Prior studies have discovered that knowledge has a significant relationship with the adoption of Islamic Banking and Financing Options (IBFOs) amongst Small and Micro Enterprises (SMEs). However, this study explores the role of knowledge on adoptability of Islamic Banking and Financing Options (IBFOs) for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), with the mediating role of trialability. While trialability has been suggested as an adoption factor, it has not been considered important in adoption studies and has thus received debates. A structured questionnaire survey consisting of a Likert scale from 1 to 5 was conducted with 300 MSME owners or managers. The findings revealed that trialability has a partial mediation between knowledge and adoptability of IBFOs. This implies that when IBFOs are offered on a trial basis, it will have an impact on the level of knowledge MSMEs will have about IBFOs with the adoptability of IBFOs. As a result, the banking and financing sector should consider offering IBFOs on a trial basis to enhance the knowledge of MSMEs and lead to its adoptability. This research contributes to literature by offering trialability as a mediating variable in the adoptability of IBFOs. The authors recommend testing trialability as a mediating variable in determining the adoptability of any other product or service or even testing it as a moderating variable.