Examining emerging ICT’s adoption in SMEs from a dynamic process approach

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to advance information and communication technologies (ICT) adoptionresearch and practice by examining and understanding the emerging ICT adoption in small andmedium enterprises (SMEs) from a dynamic process perspective using actor-network theory (ANT).Design/methodology/approach – This study employs a qualitative approach to investigate howservices SMEs are constantly engaging in ICT adoption for improving business performance.Two rounds of interviews were conducted with 26 interviewees. Data collected from the unstructuredand semi-structured interviews were analysed to understand the dynamic adoption process, actorsinvolved and their interactions.Findings – The findings reveal the recursive and dynamic nature of the emerging ICT adoptionprocess and the constant interactions and negotiations of various actors. Underpinned by the keyconcepts of ANT and validated by the empirical data, a framework is developed to depict the stages ofdynamic process of emerging ICT adoption, the actors involved and the associated key activities.Research limitations/implications – Qualitative research is interpretive in nature and the size ofthe sample used is limited. These limitations require caution for the generalization of the findings.The framework can be further validated across a wider population using mixed methods combiningqualitative and quantitative approaches.Practical implications – Emerging ICT adoption has moved from a simple adopters’ participationprocess to involving various actors that constantly interact and influence the process. SMEs managercan be influenced by and influence the technology advancement. As a result, SMEs need constantlyinteract with various human and non-human actors to keep up with the new ICT development andbenefit from the emerging opportunities.Originality/value – The research focuses on the emerging ICT adoption in SMEs from the dynamicprocess perspective using ANT. It advances ICT adoption research and practice by developinga framework to depict the dynamic and interactive nature of ICT adoption process, and the actorsinvolved and their interactions in the adoption proces