Modelling SME e-commerce with IMAES

Abstract

Purpose

There are several studies about the adoption of e-commerce for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) that separately, and in a dispersed manner, examine different theoretical approaches. The purpose of this paper is to unify a set of variables to form an integrated model of measurement of the adoption of e-commerce for SMEs.

Design/methodology/discussion

Based on an extensive review of empirical studies focused on the adoption of e-commerce in SMEs, a grouped and integrated model of e-commerce among SMEs was constructed. It was built upon the methodology of psychometrics and was subsequently statistically tested for reliability and validity. A broad study has not been carried out. Thus, the small sample size does not allow the estimation of this model’s predictability.

Findings

This paper proposes a final model, comprising 14 variables (82 items), grouping the significant effects of e-commerce adoption.

Originality/value

This tool is feasible, offering an initial model enabling detailed examination of variables affecting the adoption of e-commerce in SMEs. It contributes significantly to the development of this line of research.

Citation

Sanchez-Torres, J.A. and Juarez-Acosta, F. (2019), "Modelling SME e-commerce with IMAES", Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, Vol. 34 No. 1, pp. 137-149. https://doi.org/10.1108/JBIM-04-2018-0132