The Role of Actors in the Adoption of Emerging ICT in SMEs: An Actor Network Theory Analysis

This paper aims to understand the role of actors in the adoption of emerging Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) using Actor Network Theory (ANT). The use of ANT helps to identify a diverse range of actors and their role and influence in the dynamic process of emerging ICT’s adoption in UK Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This study adopts a qualitative approach to investigate how UK services SMEs are engaged in emerging ICT adoption by focusing on the role of actors in the process. Data were gathered through unstructured and semi-structured interviews with managers, IT experts, government agencies, and customers. Using ANT, the roles of various human and non-human actors at a four-stage dynamic adoption process are examined. The findings reveal the critical and dynamic roles of various actors in the socio-technical network. Although SME managers play the decisional role in emerging ICT adoption, their views and decisions are constantly influenced by various other human and non-human factors. The roles and interactions of all actors are dynamic depending on the adoption stages