Investigating how ICT has enhanced SME businesses in Zimbabwe : the case of SMEs in harare's CBD

Abstract

The research presents the results of the study carried out to investigate how Information Communication and Technology (ICT) has enhanced Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) businesses in Zimbabwe. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been used to add value to Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Zimbabwe. This study had four objectives, The first objective was to find out which ICTs Zimbabwean SMEs are currently using. The second objective was to investigate the benefits of using ICTs in enhancing their businesses. The third goal was to find out on the various barriers which these SMEs are facing in adopting and using ICT. Finally the study sought to recommend how ICT can be engaged by these SMEs so that their businesses will be enhanced. The methodology used was a mixed one, where both qualitative and quantitative methods were used. Data was collected using interviews and questionnaires. Interviews were conducted with the owners and or managers of the SMEs. The questionnaires were also self -administered to the owners and or managers of the SMEs. The sample was drawn from the Harare’s CBD. The sampling method used was the stratified random sampling. This involved dividing the SMEs into a number of groups (strata).The stratum were clothing, hardware, stationery and Fast foods. The SMEs in the same sector were grouped together and then randomly selected. This method provided greater accuracy than a simple random sampling of the same size and was less expensive because a smaller sample provided greater precision. Findings from the study showed that ICT has enhanced SME businesses in different ways although they faced challenges in adopting them. Evidence showed that there are many benefits SMEs can get from using ICTs.The researcher recommends that owners and managers of SMEs should adopt and use ICT so that their businesses will be enhanced.