Understanding the adoption and use of information systems/ Information technology in small and medium-sized manufacturing entreprises: a study in portuguese industry

Degree of Doctor of Philosophy.This research analysed factors and sets of factors that affect and explain the varying leveis of success in the adoption and use of IS/IT (Inforrnation Systemsllnforrnation 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 Existing work was found to be of limited relevance or was out-of-date, due to the rapid evolution of IS/IT, and did not address the Portuguese context.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 pattems across firrns with similar leveis of IS/IT adoption and success were analysed. This research demonstrates that a combination of factors were deterrninant to explain IS/IT adoption and success. These are related to the involv ment 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. ln 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 empírical work.N/