MSME Sector Contributing on B2B Electronic Market Places Successes: A Systematic Literature Review & Future Research Agenda

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to examine basic principles of technology adoption in the MSME sector, with a focus on how they contribute to the improvement of B2B electronic markets. To do this, we perform an extensive literature evaluation, which advances knowledge on the subject, of the material that has previously been published.

Design/methodology/approach – This study uses a systematic literature review methodology that goes through the following steps in order: choosing relevant databases, identifying keywords and search strings, establishing inclusion and exclusion criteria, and conducting searches across selected databases within a set amount of time. After a thorough procedure, 140 peer-reviewed publications were examined, and the results were then qualitatively analysed.

Findings – The study reveals the identification of eight influential categories of concepts related to technology adoption through an examination of recent works of literature. The present piece underscores the fragmentation in the existing literature, which primarily focuses on a limited number of concept categories. Additionally, the study underscores the scattered nature of theoretical and conceptual frameworks and the limited application of these theories, underscoring the necessity for the creation of a more dynamic framework to research the uptake of new technologies, taking into account how quickly current technologies are changing.

Research limitations/implications – Building upon the insights gained from the aforementioned discoveries, future research directions should centre on examining technology adoption through a process-oriented lens. This includes delving into relatively underexplored factors like Resources, strategy, infrastructure, and rules and how these affect SMEs' use of technology. In addition, a thorough framework for technology adoption must be created that takes these important factors into account.

Practical implications – Both professionals and decision-makers stand to gain valuable insights by obtaining a comprehensive overview of the obstacles and facilitators that shape their attempts to incorporate technology. The understanding acquired from this study will enable them to create the instruments required for technology adoption in their organizations and provide a more profound comprehension of the factors that may impact their path.

Originality/value – The understanding acquired from this study will enable them to create the instruments required for technology adoption in their organizations and provide a more profound comprehension of the factors that may impact their path. Moreover, it advances our understanding of how to adapt technology in the dynamic, quickly evolving digital world of today.