Abstract:
This research analysed factors and sets of factors that affect and explain the varying levels
of success in the adoption and use of IS/IT (Information Systems/Information Technology)
in Portuguese manufacturing SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises). The study set
out to fill a gap in knowledge not covered by previous research into the area of IS/IT in
SMEs. Existing work was found to be of limited relevance or was out-of-date, due to the
rapid evolution of IS/IT, and did not address the Portuguese context.
The study followed a realist approach to social enquiry. Seeking to explain IS/IT success, it
is necessary to understand the perspectives and social relationships amongst the key actors
involved in the process of IS/IT adoption and use. Case study research was undertaken in
twelve SMEs operating in the Portuguese manufacturing industry. A total of 56 interviews
were conducted with top managers, IS/IT managers, IS/IT staff, and IS/IT suppliers. The
factors identified as associated with IS/IT success were clustered into four categories
according to their perceived relevance. Interrelationships amongst factors were established
and the common patterns across firms with similar levels of IS/IT adoption and success
were analysed.
This research demonstrates that a combination of factors were determinant to explain IS/IT
adoption and success. These are related to the involvement of the top managers in the
process of IS/IT adoption and use, and to the development of IS/IT competencies, in-house
or in associated IS/IT suppliers. Of particular importance is the presence of an individual in
the firm with IS/IT knowledge, CEO trust, and a view on how to incorporate IS/IT in the
strategic development of the firm. In the SMEs that were more successful in adopting and
using IS/IT, the establishment of co-operative links with IS/IT suppliers was essentially
based on personal relationships or ownership of the IS/IT enterprise, rather than on
contractual relationships. The findings were validated by comparison with existing theory,
and resource-based theory was found to provide a coherent explanation of the results of the
empirical work.
