Practice of information systems: Evidence from select Indian SMEs
Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management
ISSN: 1741-038X
Article publication date: 1 February 2006
Abstract
Purpose
To provide the outcome of information system (IS) related practice survey designed to identify current trends in Indian small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Design/methodology/approach
This research is exploratory in nature, a survey methodology is used for study and the focus of study is cross‐sectional. Two companies have been selected for detailed case studies. The objective of the study was to become more familiar through survey and information collected to one point in time. The methodology was based on a questionnaire survey and personal interviews.
Findings
The outcomes, based on a survey of 210 SMEs, reveal that though SMEs understand and acknowledge the importance of the IS in day‐to‐day operations management in the present dynamic and heterogeneous business environment but these are yet to implement, operate and exploit it fully in a formal and professional manner so as to enable them to derive maximum business gains out of it. SMEs are not found equipped adequately with the IS resources to suit their needs.
Research limitations/implications
The target of the study is the SMEs operational in the western part of India and hence it has the limitation in terms of the scope. However, the overall results are encouraging with 70 percent response rare in the survey and underline the need for more such studies. The results have implications for all managers responsible for IS, any SME in the era of globalization.
Originality/value
The paper presents IS‐related practices going on in Indian SMEs. Findings reported in the paper provide SMEs operators the utility of IS in day‐to‐day business operations.
Keywords
Citation
Sharma, M.K. and Bhagwat, R. (2006), "Practice of information systems: Evidence from select Indian SMEs", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 17 No. 2, pp. 199-223. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410380610642278
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited