Saudi Journal of Engineering and Technology (SJEAT)
Volume-3 | Issue-01 | 1-9
Original Research Article
Empirical Analysis of ICT Constraints Affect the Performance of Small & Medium Enterprises in Pakistan
Zulfiqar Husain Pathan, Muhammad Zahid Tunio, Zahid Latif, Saleem Ahmed, Shamim u Rehman Naich
Published : Jan. 30, 2018
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to examine the Information and
communication technology (ICT) challenges are being faced by the small and
medium enterprises (SMEs) in the service sector of Pakistan. Quantitative research
methodology is adopted by using the close ended questionnaire as a data collection
tool. For the purpose of this study, nine challenges which are well documented in the
literature being faced by the service industries in Pakistan are hypothesized. Out of
these nine challenges, six are being accepted; however, three are rejected in the light
of the responses received from the stakeholders. The accepted assumptions are
unavailability, complexity of technology, limited speed of broadband, unskilled staff,
frequent disconnection, and incomplete online payment process evaluated, those
variables significantly influence to the performance & growth of SMEs in Pakistan.
On the other hand, the results also indicate that affordability, lack of trust and cyber
threats assumptions rejected. Since all these variables categorized in to three main
factors i.e are ICT access, ICT infrastructure, and ICT securities. Additionally, the
results indicate that these three factors are significant influenced on the performance
of SMEs. Finally, findings of this study suggest that government need to empower
ICT infrastructure on the basis of regional uniformity, and provide flexible policy
regulations for creating strong bridge between SMEs and ICT, so that to minimize
challenges and can contribute more in the development of country.