Does technology adoption matter for SMEs? A literature review

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to introduce a better knowledge mapping of the technology adoption for small-medium enterprises by referring to the literature reviews from the Scopus Database during 2009–2023. Design/methodology/approach This study employs a Bibliometric approach to reveal the causality’s direction between (1) digital and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and (2) technology adoption and SMEs. This causality direction has a far-reaching impact on public policy, entrepreneurship and economic development. The Bibliometric approach provides analysis overviews of time, journal, co-authorship, keyword, citation, country and institution. Findings The findings have a substantial impact on the field. From 2009 to 2017, there was a lack of literature on technology adoption (digitalization) and SMEs, while from 2018 to 2023, the literature increased rapidly. The journal analysis shows that sustainability (Switzerland) contributes the most to the literature. In addition, journals that focus on business, management and accounting have published the most literature on technology adoption and SMEs. The significance is often judged by how the research could change current understanding, lead to practical applications or open new avenues for further research. Therefore, this study presents new perspectives that developed countries, in the case is Germany, still dominate technology adoption in SMEs and the relationship between business, management and accounting. Research limitations/implications This study suggests that collaboration among countries can stimulate research and publication on technology adoption (digitalization) and SMEs. Practical implications This study suggests that collaboration among countries can stimulate research and publication on technology adoption (digitalization) and SMEs. Besides, this study leads future studies to develop empirical studies on technology adoption (digital business/entrepreneurship) and SMEs at both country and cross-country levels. The author’s findings can be recommendations for public policy and economic development through digital adoption in entrepreneurship. Originality/value This study provides a better understanding and mapping about the technology adoption for SMEs. The literature of technology adoption for SMEs has grown rapidly during the last five years. However, there is a lack of technology adoption mapping for SMEs in the current literature.

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