International Journal of Applied Business Research
Vol 3 No 02 (2021)

Boosting Emerging Technology Adoption in SMEs: A Case Study of the Fashion Industry

Arianne Muthia Zahra (Doctoral Student, School of Business and Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia.)
Wawan Dhewanto (Associate Professor, School of Business and Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia.)
Akbar Adhi Utama (Assistant Professor, School of Business and Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia.)



Article Info

Publish Date
02 Jul 2021

Abstract

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) provide a significant contribution to the economy and are amongst the target of governments’ digital transformation programs. Yet, existing advanced technology adoption models are based upon and targeted for large-scale companies and might not be applicable to the majority of firms in this segment. To address this issue, this study aims to explore ways in boosting the adoption of technologies relevant to SMEs by employing a qualitative research approach through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with manufacturing SMEs in the fashion industry. Evidence of this study points to several main findings: (1) Leader's competencies, technology literacy, growth mindset, and supportive SME conditions provide positive sentiments towards emerging technologies. However, (2) SMEs must also consider the compatibilities of the technology and evaluate its advantage to the firms prior to adoption. Lastly, (3) stakeholders support and competitors influence are also shown to affect SME leaders, the SME, and the technology itself in terms of supporting technology adoption. This research contributes to the literature by uncovering current condition and needs of SMEs for their technological transformation. For relevant stakeholders, targets of transformation might be achieved if the particular concerns of SMEs have been addressed.

Copyrights © 2021






Journal Info

Abbrev

ijabr

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Economics, Econometrics & Finance Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Social Sciences

Description

The International Journal of Applied Business Research (IJABR), an academic journal in the field of business, published by Bandung State Polytechnic, Indonesia. This OPEN ACCESS Journal is intended to foster and stimulate the exchange of discourses on applied business research issues among ...