Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are considered to be a most efficient tool which is able to push economic and social development to experience significant progress and development as they offer useful services to consumers, and provide much needed employment. With this in consideration, they are useful for training, acquiring experience and technical and managerial skills. The objectives of this research are to identify the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) for SMEs in Saudi Arabia. Based on the literature review, 20 factors have been identified and subsequently structured into three groups, namely entrepreneurial, enterprise and environmental factors. The study also focuses on the SMEs Support Programme by identifying the current situation and accordingly providing recommendations based on those made by the support providers. Data have been collected by utilising a mixed method approach: first, 146 postal questionnaires with SME owners/managers have been analysed by using SPSS; second, in order to gain further understanding of the situation and particular challenges, 15 in-depth interviews with support providers have been conducted; and third, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) has been used to analyse the pairwise comparison of the factors. The main findings of this study are that, for the CSFs for SMEs in Saudi Arabia, three factors are deemed to be important both for owners/managers and support providers. These factors are quality of the product and service, customer satisfaction, and business planning. The findings also indicate that there are many ¿important support gaps¿ which show that existing support needs to be addressed in order to improve and develop the support structure. / Government of the Saudi Arabia, Ministry of Higher Education.

The New Capital Accord (henceforth, Basel II), is expected to impose dramatic changes on banks and other providers of corporate financing, as well as companies. Literature indicates that small and medium sized enterprises (henceforth SMEs), in general, and in particular German SMEs seem to be affected: Germany has the highest SME density with SMEs comprising 99.6% of all corporations (IMF, 2008), these SMEs are highly dependent on banks for financing (see Jacobson et al, 2006). However, there is huge controversy in the literature concerning how these changes will look, right before Basel II came into effect in the years 2007 / 2008 in the European Union. In order to explore this effect from a Post-Basel II perspective, the objective of this research project is to establish what effect Basel II will have on corporate financing of SMEs in Germany. The high impact on SMEs (in Germany), combined with controversial evidence from extant Pre-Basel II research, indicates a high relevance to academics and practitioners for this thesis. This thesis is probably the first from a Post-Basel II perspective which covers both the SMEs' as well as the financiers' perspective. Based on a structured literature review using the comparative method (Peters, 1998) 'Most Different Systems' evidence is provided that there is no consistent picture regarding the effect of Basel II. Therefore, further research is needed to determine whether the effect in Germany is consistent, from a Post-Basel II perspective, with regards to the conditions which trigger certain mechanisms, from a 'scientific realism' (Smith, 1998) perspective, because the literature indicates that 'positivist generalising' has limited validity. Building on Creswell (2003), an 'exploratory sequential' design was created to test three initial hypotheses (as confirmation or refutation of a theory, see Gujarati, 2003:8): a multi-method design is best suited to the author's philosophical stance of 'scientific realism' by means of triangulation (Robson, 2002:174). The result of the initial quantitative phase is based on the analysis of questionnaire data from 125 SMEs and financiers (banks, private equity companies, family offices, providers of alternative means of financing) derived from a probabilistic sample frame in the fourth quarter of 2008. Mathematical models for SMEs and financiers regarding the three initial hypotheses were set-up and tested using the appropriate statistical tests. In order to limit bias by means of a spill-over effect from the financial crises, control questions were used. The subsequent qualitative phase by means of semistructured elite interviews (Saunders et al, 2007:312) between March and May 2009 enabled a valid triangulation and provided in-depth insights into how SMEs can cope best with Basel II. The purposive sample, of 17 'important cases', included company owners and top-level financier executives. In a conclusive quantitative and qualitative synopsis, the three initial hypotheses were acknowledged. However, the qualitative in-depth analysis by means of 'causal networks' (Miles and Huberman, 1994) led to an amendment of the hypotheses as follows: 1. Corporate finance has become different for SMEs because the 'house bank principle' has changed to a 'core bank principle' due to Basel II. Shopping around regarding credits will be more difficult which makes financing more difficult. This could be overcompensated by major SMEs, by using non-credit corporate financing which leads to a reduction of the 'house bank' principle. 2. SMEs can cope best with the effect when they: a) proactively engage in rating and improve the parameters, or b) they adjust their strategy as stated in hypothesis 3. 3. Financiers (especially non-bank financiers) will engage in SME corporate finance when they have a sound financial basis / management and when they adjust their strategy in terms of growth with the aim of niche market leadership and when they open up for exit strategies.

Climate change presents a significant global challenge, affecting various aspects such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and altered precipitation patterns. Climate adaptation and climate mitigation are two fundamental strategies for addressing climate change. While mitigation focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, adaptation involves adjusting to climatic changes and their consequences. Both strategies are essential for a comprehensive response to climate change. For construction SMEs in the Koronoberg region, recognizing the importance of this dual approach is vital when offering climate adaptation-related renovation services. The construction sector plays a crucial role in shaping the built environment and has a substantial impact on greenhouse gas emissions, making it a vital area for addressing climate change. This study focuses on assessing the readiness and challenges faced by construction small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Kronoberg region of Sweden in providing climate adaptation-related renovation services. The study aims to evaluate the current state of preparedness of SMEs, identify specific challenges, and develop strategies to support their transition towards sustainable and resilient climate adaptation renovations. The findings reveal a growing awareness among construction SMEs regarding climate adaptation needs, with strategies emphasizing the use of wooden materials, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices. The outcomes provide valuable insights and recommendations for construction SMEs operating in the Kronoberg region, facilitating their long-term viability in supporting sustainable and resilient communities. However, challenges such as limited resources, absence of regulations, and standardized guidelines hinder implementation. Despite these challenges, the study highlights opportunities for growth and innovation through stakeholder collaboration, technological advancements, and sustainable strategies. The implications for construction SMEs include the need for continued awareness, adoption of sustainable practices, overcoming challenges, stakeholder collaboration, and embracing innovation and technology. Overall, construction SMEs in the Kronoberg region have the potential to contribute to a sustainable future by prioritizing climate adaptation, engaging in knowledge sharing, and actively participating in collaborative efforts. Their actions can drive positive change in the construction sector, mitigating the environmental impact of buildings and fostering a more sustainable and resilient built environment. Moreover, this research lays the foundation for further investigation in other regions or countries, fostering the global transition towards sustainable and resilient built environment.

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to increase the understanding of factors that affect the integration of Enterprise Resource Planning systems (ERP systems) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A successful integration of ERP systems can lead to an increased ability for businesses to achieve its business and financial goals through increased competitiveness. An ERP system is also perceived as a crucial component in today’s complex supply chains and changing business conditions. While previous research has had a focal point on ERP system integration in larger enterprises, however, there is a lack of understanding regarding ERP system integration in SMEs. Therefore, this study aims to identify critical success factors for ERP systems integration in SMEs. Therefore, the purpose of the study is: To increase the understanding of factors that affect the integration of ERP systems in small and medium-sized enterprises. Two research questions have been developed to be answered based on the purpose: [1] What factors do consultants to an ERP system consider as critical when integrating ERP systems in small and medium-sized enterprises? [2] What factors does applied organizations consider as critical when integrating ERP system in small and medium-sized enterprises? Method – A case study with a single-case design was conducted at an ERP system retailer. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were used as the primary method of data collection, and the interviews were carried out in two phases. The first phase consisted of interviews with the case company, whose respondents were the company’s ERP consultants. Phase two consisted of interviews with the applied organizations, which consists of the case company’s customers. The two phases of interviews made it possible that a holistic perspective could be covered, since data was collected from both stakeholders. To answer the purpose and research questions, the collected empirical data from the interviews were analyzed. Findings – The study identifies resources such as time and cost as crucial factors for a successful integration of ERP systems within SMEs. The study also confirms previous study results in which factors such as project members, communication, competence, change management, and management support are identified as crucial to successfully integrate ERP systems. A well-planned integration process with adequate resources and knowledge is necessary for a successful integration. The findings of this study contribute to previous studies regarding ERP system integration. Implications – The study identified important factors when integrating ERP systems in SMEs, which can be beneficial for ERP retailers and businesses looking to integrate such a system. By taking the study's findings into account, involved stakeholders can enhance the effectiveness of their integration process. Limitations – The study’s generalizability is questionable since it is only based on a single case. The limited time affected the depth of the study. More time could have resulted in more collected data for greater generalizability. Keywords – Critical Success Factors, ERP System, Integration, SMEs

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to explore the drivers and barriers to conducting an environmental analysis of transport processes in an SME. Method– The research method used in this study is a single-case study. The research approach for this study is an abductive approach. One data collection method was used for data collection, which was interviews. Findings – This study identified internal and external drivers and barriers to conducting an environmental analysis of transportation processes. Some findings of this study confirm the findings from the previous studies. Also, some findings of this study extend the findings from the previous studies. Implications– The answers to the research questions of this study will increase awareness and help SMEs to increase their understanding of the drivers and barriers when it comes to adopting sustainability and conducting an environmental analysis of transportation processes. Limitations– The limitation of this study are large logistics companies are not considered and will not be included in this study, this study does not delve into environmental analyses relating to warehouse operations or energy consumption, it does not investigate how SMEs gather and analyze the data necessary for conducting an environmental analysis. Also, this study is not focused on how to conduct an environmental analysis and the actual tools itself. Moreover, the study is limited to Swedish SMEs which may have some branches inside of Europe. Keywords – Barriers, Driving factors, Environmental Sustainability, Green Logistics, SMEs, Transportation

Background: Social media has revolutionized the restaurant industry, and it plays a significant role by changing and offering new ways to engage with restaurant customers and build stronger customer relationships, market their products and services, and acquire new customers, manage restaurant reputation, enhance brand awareness, and stay competitive in an increasingly digital world. Even though some restaurants recognize and utilize the potential of social media to deliver the above benefits, still there are some restaurants that have outdated social media accounts or completely inactive in social media. Therefore, this would be an interesting case study area that needs to explore what kind of role played by social media on SMRBs by representing both sectors (SMAs and SMINs) and how they survive in the market competition while experience the challenges of being active or inactive in social media. Purpose: The purpose of this study aims at understanding the current social media role of SMRBs by investigating restaurant owners’ attitude towards using social media, how these restaurants utilize social media, how social media influences their restaurant business performance, discover the unique challenges face by SMAs and SMINs.  Method: This study adopts qualitative research method with multiple case study approach. Togather data, semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions were conducted with seven small and medium-sized restaurants owners in Östersund, Sweden. Conclusions: The conclusions revealed that SMRBs are aware of the potential in using social media, but they are still not fully using its possibilities and opportunities due to the challenges they face. Additionally, it has been noticed that social media has played a recognizable role for SMAs to survive in the competitive market. But considering SMINs which mostly rely on traditional WOM and their reputation, social media does not have any influence on achieving their business accomplishments or play any role for them to survive in the competitive market. By Applying RBV theory SMRBs can reach the competitive advantage and long-term success using VRIN resources. / <p> 2024-01-19</p>

The focus of this study is to explore trust between small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and large companies in interorganizational relationships (IORs) that are mandated by government policy. Due to the important contribution made by SMEs to national economies and to the fact that their growth is pivotal for entrepreneurial activities, many governments have made significant efforts to enhance their performance. However, SMEs are constrained by their lack of resources and experience. Some countries have required large companies to collaborate with SMEs to overcome these constraints. Whilst much attention has been devoted to trust in relationships of choice between SMEs and large companies, scant attention has been paid to the state of trust in mandated business interactions. This study explores the state of trust between large companies and SMEs companies in mandated business interactions, identifying those factors that influence trust between them. Qualitative semi-structured interviews with 25 key managers from large companies and SMEs were conducted in Oman which has a policy of mandated IORs. The interview data were analyzed thematically. The key findings resulted in a new contextual concept of trust, a refinement of classical trust indicators by which the presence of trust in IORs can be more appropriately detected and the development of a model embracing factors which were found to influence trust. Several new factors not previously commented on in the literature were identified in this study. The findings provide theoretical and practical contributions with recommendations for policy, practice and further research. / Ministry of Manpower, Oman.

This study is made to understand the opportunities and challenges SMEs have to adopt GHG calculation tools. Adoption of GHG calculation tools are common by large organizations and have proven as a consequence to lower their GHG emissions, motivate their employees and establish sustainability goals. Even thou a large amount of large organizations have adopted GHG calculation tools, this is very rare in SMEs. Using the theoretical framework called Rogers diffusion of innovation theory and a survey, the factors behind why or why not SMEs have adopted GHG calculation tools were studied. The results showed that only 9% of SMEs have adopted GHG calculation tools and the reason for this is lack of resources, competence and data. The analysis showed that the characteristics of an organization that affects this the most are leadership, education and regulations. In order to overcome the challenges, organizations should prioritize to have a leadership that motivates employees to engage in sustainability actions. Organizations should enable skill development in the field of sustainability to increase the competence. This would enable more organization to adopt GHG calculation tools and most likely lower their GHG emissions.

Software-as-a-service (SaaS) has been around since the mid 2000's and is a practical option in contrast to the on-premise IT solutions where SMEs need to invest on purchasing or building their own IT infrastructures which means install the software themself, design the applications and have a whole IT division employed by the company to keep up with everything. Regardless of whether SaaS applications have been around for some time, SMEs actually have a ton of inquiries on whether these applications are a suitable choice for them.  This research explores the factors that contribute to adoption of SaaS solutions in the Swedish SMEs. The factors are explored through the usage of technological, organisational, environmental framework that contribute towards adoption of SaaS in the Swedish small and medium sized companies. In order to answer the research question of this study and to understand the Swedish SMEs perspective, a qualitative study was conducted with a deductive approach. Six semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with respondents from six different SMEs who have already been in the process of adopting and have adopted SaaS.  This thesis resulted in finding a significant process contributing to adoption of SaaS from Swedish SMEs perspective. The process is found to have a specific pattern because of the effect of the factors involved.

Servitization has long since proven its benefits for manufacturing companies and is expected to gain future importance due to its sustainable and competitive significance. Yet, research has insufficiently addressed the effect of consumer goods companies integrating services in their portfolio to meet customer demands and justify new pricing models in B2C markets. This research focuses on the consumer perception of services from different levels of complexity to provide managerial implications on how SMEs are advised to react to the Servitization trend in Sweden. A conceptualization of services according to the service scale by Mastrogiacomo et al. (2020) provides the framework for obtaining cross-sectional consumer data on the perception of servitization levels using a customer survey in the Swedish market for the durable consumer goods start-up Sjöstrand. Findings show that the key factors for the perception of services are demographics and the customer’s relation to the brand. The analyzed factors of age, customer relationship, and previous topic-related knowledge about servitization show that higher degrees of customer loyalty prove essential for implementing long-term service strategies like leasing or individualized service plans without transfer of ownership. Services that provide customers with additional knowledge and communication on an individual level demonstrate simple ways to provide high value in use and sustainability. Growing demands for personalization, customer co-creation, and the self-repair trend require companies to identify strategies to increase value-in-use. Furthermore, many services may require an assessment for deservitization as their value proposition can misalign with managerial expectations. / Tjänstefiering har sedan länge visat sig vara fördelaktigt för tillverkningsföretag och förväntas få ökad betydelse i framtiden på grund av dess hållbara och konkurrenskraftiga signifikans. Tidigare forskning har dock inte i tillräcklig utsträckning undersökt effekten för konsumentvaruföretag som integrerar tjänster i sin portfölj för att uppfylla kundernas krav och motivera nya prismodeller på B2C-marknaderna. Denna forskning fokuserar på konsumenternas uppfattning av tjänster från olika komplexitetsnivåer, för att vidare ge ledningsmässiga implikationer om hur små och medelstora företag bör reagera på tjänstefieringtrenden inom konsumentvarusegmentet i Sverige. En konceptualisering av tjänster enligt tjänsteskalan av Mastrogiacomo et al. (2020) utgör ramen för att få tvärsnittsdata från konsumenter om uppfattningen av tjänstefieringsnivåer. Detta framtogs med hjälp av en kundundersökning på den svenska marknaden för varaktiga konsumtionsvaror start-up Sjöstrand. Resultatet visar att de viktigaste faktorerna för uppfattningen av service är demografi och kundens relation till varumärket. Vidare analyseras att faktorer som ålder, kundrelation och tidigare ämnesrelaterad kunskap om tjänstefiering främjar kundlojalitet som är avgörande för att genomföra långsiktiga servicestrategier såsom leasing eller individualiserade serviceplaner utan överföring av äganderätten. Tjänster som bidrar med mer kunskap och kommunikation på individuell nivå visar enkelt ett högt värde i användning och hållbarhet för kunderna. Ökade krav på personalisering, medskapande och trenden med självreparationer kräver att företagen i allt högre grad identifierar strategier för att öka värdet i användningen. Många tjänster kan dessutom kräva en bedömning för ‘Deservitization’ (minskning av tjänsterna) eftersom deras värdeerbjudande kan missanpassas till ledningens förväntningar.