Business Issues in the 21st Century: An Empirical Study of E-Commerce Adoption in UK and Denmark SMEs

Abstract

This chapter explores the business issues affecting the level of implementation of e-commerce adoption in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Results of a survey of 256 UK and 140 Danish small firms suggests those SMEs in both countries that have developed e-commerce capability have not done so strategically and have yet to enjoy significant cost and time savings. The survey also identifies the challenges faced by SMEs. Finally, the authors suggest paths that might be followed in seeking to achieve effective performance and wider adoption of commerce.