THE E-READINESS of Small & Medium Enterprises in SOCCSKSARGEN: An Explanatory APPROACH

Abstract

Inadequate infrastructure and resources of small and medium enterprises (SMES) hindered the adoption and integration of new technology into their business operation.  This study aimed to determine the level of e-readiness in SOCCSKSARGEN as well the comparison of the difference of e-readiness in SMEs according to their characteristics. The researcher employed an explanatory sequential design to provide a better understanding of the study. The survey covered 150 purposively chosen executives from merchandising and manufacturing industries across the region. Moreover, five participants were interviewed. The quantitative results were analyzed through inferential statistics while the qualitative information was analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that e-readiness is evident and among its indicators, the e-commerce readiness revealed a very high level whereas digital technology readiness and e-business readiness were high level.  The e-readiness is comparable regardless of the location, nature of organization, forms of business, number of employees, organization size, annual average profit level and product offerings. The quantitative findings of the study were supported by the fundamental themes that arose from the qualitative data. The e-readiness identified themes from the participants which helped strengthen and explain the profoundness of the level of e-readiness and also the comparison of the variable. The participants' perception suggests that they hold the belief that SMEs are well prepared and equipped for the digital era. These research findings offer implications for research and business practice.