Assessing the Impact of E-Commerce on SMEs in Value Chains: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

This chapter is intended as a contribution to the establishment of a theoretical foundation for the e-commerce field. Our specific contribution to methodology is through the description of a qualitative approach based on multiple case studies across industry and country boundaries. This has enabled us to propose an analytical framework that will identify the triggers for value chain transformation that will encourage SMEs to adopt e-commerce. The chapter describes seven elements that make up this framework, including the automation of value activity interactions between partners in the value chain. These elements form the basis for a discussion of future trends.