Improving business performance: Role of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in SMTEs

Siyabonga Mxunyelwa

doi:10.36096/ijbes.v6i6.612

Authors

Siyabonga Mxunyelwa Walter Sisulu University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6465-2097

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36096/ijbes.v6i6.612

Keywords:

Information Communication Technology (ICT), Small to Medium Tourism Enterprises (SMTEs), The Great-Kei Municipality

Abstract

In light of the globalisation of businesses and the competitive expansion drive, the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) has become essential. The purpose of this study was to explore how ICT could improve business performance in the context of small and medium-sized tourism enterprises in the Great Kei Municipality. Descriptive and qualitative research approach was employed in this study. A survey questionnaire was used as the main tool for data collection. The findings elucidate that 94.9% of small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMTEs) concur that the use of ICT as a tool helps to achieve company goals. The findings further indicate that 46.2% of companies surveyed operate accommodation facilities. The study’s conclusions highlight that 25.6% of entrepreneurs indicated that expensive ICTs appear to be a barrier, while 23.1% reported that access to technology was a barrier. It is recommended that small and medium-sized tourism enterprises utilise ICT as a tool to enhance business performance. In addition, the study suggests that managers and owners make technological investments to ensure the overall success of SMTEs. Moreover, the study provides a foundation for further research.

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