ASSESSING THE BARRIERS AND BENEFITS OF ICT ADOPTION BY SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED ENTREPRISES IN THE ACCRA METROPOLIS IN GHANA

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to explore the barriers and benefits of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) adoption by Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Accra Metropolis in Ghana. Among several tools, research shows that the effective utilization of ICTs is beneficial to all organizational sectors including SMEs. SMEs that effectively utilize ICTs can compete efficiently in both domestic and global arenas; however, the literature also indicates that there are also many barriers to ICT adoption among SMEs. Their reluctance to adopt ICTs have stemmed from both internal and external barriers. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data from 230 working MBA students from different SMEs in Accra, Ghana. Quantitative approaches were used for data analysis. The study shows that the key barriers to ICT adoption were lack of internal capabilities, high cost of ICT, lack of information about suitable ICT solutions and lack time to implement. The study also identified the key benefits as an increase in customer service and responsiveness, an increased ability to compete, improved communication within and outside the organization, increasing profit in their various organizations, and the ability for managers to have better access to information. The result of the study will be beneficial to current and future SMEs in the metropolis in decision making for the adoption of ICTs. Keywords Information and communication technologies (ICT), Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs), Developing countries, Barriers, Benefits, Accra Metropolis in Ghana, Adoption.