The role and impact of information and communications technologies (ICTs) towards enabling socio-economic development in small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) has received attention from various scholars. South Africa as a lower middle-income developing country has a number of development priorities which include the urgent need to expand the economy and ultimately to eradicate poverty and unemployment. Based on evidence from more advanced economies, expanded access and usage of ICTs in SMMEs is considered an imperative to enable the acceleration of development goals. This study sets out to advance understanding of the role and impact of ICT usage by SMMEs on poverty reduction from a South African perspective. A systematic literature review methodology was applied to analyse previous theoretical and empirical studies conducted on the interplay between ICTs, SMMEs and poverty reduction. Empirical data was gathered from SMMEs through semi structured interviews and observations. A purposively selected case study was also carried out serving to enhance contextual insight into the role of ICTs in an SMME context. The thematic analysis method, Actor-Network Theory (ANT) and Sustainable Livelihood framework (SL) were applied as the data analysis methods. The combination of ANT and the SL framework for expanded analysis has not been applied before by similar studies that examine the interplay between ICT, SMMEs and poverty reduction. The process of triangulation was applied on the empirical findings in order to reduce bias and to construct a conceptual model. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by proposing a conceptual model that frames the role and impact of ICT usage by SMMEs towards improving their livelihoods and reducing poverty. Methodologically it offers an example of how method pluralism can be applied to gain a better understanding of the research phenomena. From a practical perspective, this study addresses real life challenges resulting in the suggestion of practical guidelines to ensure that the use of ICTs by SMMEs results in improvements in their financial and non-financial well-being. The findings of this study indicate that the relationship between ICT usage and poverty reduction is neither simple nor linear. Effective use of ICTs could result in SMMEs leveraging more benefits and thus improving their human capabilities as well as social and economic well-being resulting in poverty reduction. / Thesis (PhD) University of Pretoria, 2017. / Informatics / PhD / Unrestricted

<p>This thesis explored the impact that Sectoral Determination 1: Contract Cleaning Sector, South Africa had on the growth of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the sector. It critically examined the prevailing perception in industry, that labour legislation has a negative impact on the growth of SMMEs, and, evaluates the South African government's response to this perception.</p>

O objetivo central desta pesquisa foi analisar o papel dos Sistemas Locais de Produção (SLP) nos processos de aquisição e difusão de novas capacitações introduzidas por programas de extensão industrial. Para tanto, realizou-se um extenso levantamento de dados em 42 empresas de micro e pequeno porte, localizadas no SLP de Franca/SP. Desse total, 27 haviam participado do Projeto Extensão Industrial Exportadora (PEIEx), que foi o foco da análise. Os resultados apontaram que os programas de extensão industrial são uma importante ferramenta para o aprimoramento produtivo de PMEs e que seu impacto pode ser potencializado no contexto dos SLPs, já que as novas capacitações introduzidas pelo PEIEx também puderam ser apropriadas por outras empresas do SLP que não participaram do programa. De modo geral, a pesquisa verificou que a principal deficiência do PEIEx e, em geral, dos programas de extensão no Brasil estava relacionada a dificuldades de coordenação interinstitucional, revelando a inexistência de uma lógica sistêmica de atuação. No que diz respeito à avaliação, verificou-se que o PEIEx teve um alto impacto apenas nas microempresas mais atrasadas do SLP, o que levou à consideração de que as especificidades das empresas em termos de tamanho e estágio de desenvolvimento podem influenciar os resultados desse tipo de programa. Como conseqüência, a pesquisa demonstrou que o sucesso dos programas de extensão é explicado pelo grau em que as características da oferta se adaptam às especificidades da demanda. E para que esse equilíbrio seja alcançado, dois fatores mostraram-se bastante relevantes: o desenvolvimento de mecanismos de avaliação e a continuidade dos programas de extensão. / The main purpose of this study was to examine the role of Local Production Systems (LPS) on the acquisition and diffusion processes related to and originated by - industrial extension programs. It was accomplished by an extensive survey in a sample of 42 micro and small enterprises (SMEs) located in the LPS of the city of Franca. Of these, 23 had participated in PEIEx - Projeto Extensão Industrial Exportadora -, which was the focus of analysis. Results indicated not just that industrial extension programs are a relevant tool to improve SMEs upgrading process, but also that their impact can be strengthened in the context of LPS. It was observed that even non-participating enterprises could benefit from PEIEx by developing new production management capabilities related to its services. The study also found that lack of institutional coordination was the main shortcoming of PEIEx and other industrial extension programs in Brazil, revealing the complete absence of a systemic logic of action. Regarding PEIEx evaluation, it was found that the program had a high impact only in delayed micro enterprises. As a consequence, it was noted that programs impact was directly affected by enterprises specificities related to size and stage of development. As a result, research has shown that the success of industrial extension programs is explained by the existence of a straight balance between supply and demand-related factors regarding program implementation. For this balance to be achieved, it is necessary to develop trustful assessment tools and assure programs continuity over time.

Thesis (M.Dev.) -- University of Limpopo, 2018 / The high unemployment rate in South Africa encourages citizens to be job creators rather than job seekers. It is often said that small businesses hold the key to economic growth. The South African government endeavours to accelerate economic growth, job creation and to address inequalities, through enterprise development and support. It created and enacted laws that seek to create an enabling environment for the growth and support of predominantly black, women, youth and people with disabilities owning small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives. In ensuring support for SMMEs, the government of the Republic of South Africa promulgated the National Small Business Act (NSBA), Act 102 of 1996, which clearly outlines the support that national, provincial, local governments and private sector entities are compelled to develop and implement - programmes geared towards the support and promotion of SMMEs. Since 1996, these entities have developed programmes and projects that aim to implement support of SMMEs. Similarly, the government agencies that operate in the Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) have developed programmes in support of SMMEs and cooperatives as per the abovementioned Act. Most business owners are constantly faced with challenges, especially women-owned SMMEs. The role of government agencies and the implementation of relevant programmes and strategies to empower women-owned SMMES are explored. Despite the above-mentioned government initiatives, women-owned SMMEs are still facing challenges such as lack of financial support, inadequate infrastructure, access to market and other related problems. These challenges hinder their business initiatives and economic growth in the CDM. This research contributes to the public discourse regarding empowerment of SMMEs, with particular reference to women-owned businesses, and also to contribute to policy development in the promotion and support of SMMEs. A conceptual framework is also reviewed in the study, regarding the importance of government agencies, SMMEs and women empowerment to the development of the South African economy.

<p>This thesis explored the impact that Sectoral Determination 1: Contract Cleaning Sector, South Africa had on the growth of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the sector. It critically examined the prevailing perception in industry, that labour legislation has a negative impact on the growth of SMMEs, and, evaluates the South African government's response to this perception.</p>

O objetivo central desta pesquisa foi analisar o papel dos Sistemas Locais de Produção (SLP) nos processos de aquisição e difusão de novas capacitações introduzidas por programas de extensão industrial. Para tanto, realizou-se um extenso levantamento de dados em 42 empresas de micro e pequeno porte, localizadas no SLP de Franca/SP. Desse total, 27 haviam participado do Projeto Extensão Industrial Exportadora (PEIEx), que foi o foco da análise. Os resultados apontaram que os programas de extensão industrial são uma importante ferramenta para o aprimoramento produtivo de PMEs e que seu impacto pode ser potencializado no contexto dos SLPs, já que as novas capacitações introduzidas pelo PEIEx também puderam ser apropriadas por outras empresas do SLP que não participaram do programa. De modo geral, a pesquisa verificou que a principal deficiência do PEIEx e, em geral, dos programas de extensão no Brasil estava relacionada a dificuldades de coordenação interinstitucional, revelando a inexistência de uma lógica sistêmica de atuação. No que diz respeito à avaliação, verificou-se que o PEIEx teve um alto impacto apenas nas microempresas mais atrasadas do SLP, o que levou à consideração de que as especificidades das empresas em termos de tamanho e estágio de desenvolvimento podem influenciar os resultados desse tipo de programa. Como conseqüência, a pesquisa demonstrou que o sucesso dos programas de extensão é explicado pelo grau em que as características da oferta se adaptam às especificidades da demanda. E para que esse equilíbrio seja alcançado, dois fatores mostraram-se bastante relevantes: o desenvolvimento de mecanismos de avaliação e a continuidade dos programas de extensão. / The main purpose of this study was to examine the role of Local Production Systems (LPS) on the acquisition and diffusion processes related to and originated by - industrial extension programs. It was accomplished by an extensive survey in a sample of 42 micro and small enterprises (SMEs) located in the LPS of the city of Franca. Of these, 23 had participated in PEIEx - Projeto Extensão Industrial Exportadora -, which was the focus of analysis. Results indicated not just that industrial extension programs are a relevant tool to improve SMEs upgrading process, but also that their impact can be strengthened in the context of LPS. It was observed that even non-participating enterprises could benefit from PEIEx by developing new production management capabilities related to its services. The study also found that lack of institutional coordination was the main shortcoming of PEIEx and other industrial extension programs in Brazil, revealing the complete absence of a systemic logic of action. Regarding PEIEx evaluation, it was found that the program had a high impact only in delayed micro enterprises. As a consequence, it was noted that programs impact was directly affected by enterprises specificities related to size and stage of development. As a result, research has shown that the success of industrial extension programs is explained by the existence of a straight balance between supply and demand-related factors regarding program implementation. For this balance to be achieved, it is necessary to develop trustful assessment tools and assure programs continuity over time.

Micro, Small and Medium sized enterprises (MSMEs) represent 99.9% of businesses in the UK and they face significant challenges with regards to start-up, survival and growth. Their ability to deal with these challenges is assisted, in some cases, by the provision of business support funded by the public sector. Unfortunately, despite the volume of such businesses, there remains a significant lack of qualitative data into the MSME sector, and their use of university led business support. This thesis examined the business support agenda, the support needs of MSMEs, the role of universities in the provision of business support, and the needs of public funding bodies, with regards to economic sustainability and growth in the West Midlands. The choice to focus on the West Midlands region was largely pragmatic; the researcher has existing relationships with the small business community and University networks within the region allowing for a comparable study of stakeholders with similar environmental, political and economical challenges. Whilst the findings are therefore in relation to the West Midlands region, they have been compared to secondary data and theoretical frameworks in order to propose a contribution, which is applicable to a wider audience. The thesis adopted an exploratory, interpretivist methodology with an emphasis on the practical importance of the research results. Through an explanatory sequential mixed methods approach, surveys were used to collect data from MSME business owners, followed by in-depth interviews with university staff in order to produce institutional case studies. The surveys with MSME owners identified a need for support that was free, local, face-to-face and delivered by an organisation with a good reputation for delivering business support. The survey data also indicated confusion amongst MSME owners about the availability of support from universities, as well as questions around the quality of support provided by universities and its impact. The interviews, and case studies, revealed a significant level of interest, and a feeling of responsibility, from universities towards supporting the MSME community. However there were consistent challenges around funding, sustainability, resources, flexibility of delivery, and the longevity of any enterprise strategy. The research makes a useful contribution to knowledge through the development of multiple case studies and the development of a conceptual framework for a sustainable system of university led, MSME business support. The model, and analysis, considers the detailed experiences, challenges and opportunities from the stakeholders and proposed a sustainable support system. This contribution to literature provides a unique perspective for both practical application and for the research community to utilise further.

Bakgrund: Under flera års tid har digitaliseringen och utvecklingen av digitala redovisningsinnovationer tagit stora framsteg. Behovet att följa med i den digitala utvecklingen har påvisats vara en avgörande faktor för att förbli konkurrenskraftig på marknaden. Under Covid-19 pandemin har studier påvisat att flera mikroföretag inom SME-segmentet har bristande digitala redovisningsprocesser. Men förklaringen om varför det fortfarande finns flera företag som inte utvecklat sina redovisningsprocesser mot det digitala arbetssättet saknades i tidigare studier, vilket blev studiens syfte att fylla. För att behandla studiens empiriska material som samlats användes en teoretisk referensram innehållande nyckeltal, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, redovisning, innovationer och digitalisering. Den insamlade empirin ställdes därefter mot den teoretiska referensramen i analysen som i sin tur ledde fram till ett slutresultat. Syfte: Syftet med studien är att förklara varför företagsledare i mikroföretag ännu inte har digitala redovisningsprocesser implementerade i sina företag. Således syftar studien till att öka förståelsen för hur företagsledare beslutar huruvida digitala redovisningsinnovationer ska anskaffas eller inte. Metod: Studien har baserats på en kvalitativ metod där sex stycken intervjuer genomfördes. Alla intervjuer genomfördes över digitala hjälpmedel. Alla respondenter är företagsledare i mikroföretag inom SME-segmentet och var tillgängliga inom Stockholms- och Göteborgsområdet. Resultat och slutsats: Studien visar att redovisningsinnovationens egenskaper har en viss roll i företagsledarens beslut till acceptans eller avslag. Dock påvisar studien också att flera faktorer utanför innovationens egenskaper är avgörande vid beslutsfattande, då företagsledarens digitala kunskap och det socialt inflytanded hade större påverkan. / Background: For several years, digitalisation and the development of digital accounting innovations have made great progress. The need to keep up with digital developments has been shown to be a crucial factor in remaining competitive in the market. During the Covid-19 pandemic, studies have shown that several micro-enterprises within the SME segment have a lack of digital accounting processes. However, the explanation of why there are still several companies that have not developed their accounting processes against the digital way of working was missing from previous studies, which became the aim of the study. To process the study's empirical materials collected, a theoretical frame of reference containing key figures, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, accounting, innovations and digitalisation was used. The entangled empirical data were then set against the theoretical frame of reference in the analysis, which in turn led to a final result. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explain why business leaders in micro-enterprises within SME do not yet have a digital accounting process implemented at their companies. Thus, the study aims to increase understanding of how business leaders decide whether to acquire digital accounting innovations. Method: The study was based on a qualitative method where six interviews were conducted over digital aids. All respondents are business leaders in micro-enterprises within the SME-segment and were available in the Stockholm and Gothenburg area. Results and conclusion: The study shows that the characteristics of accounting innovations have a certain role in the business leaders decision to accept or reject. However, the study shows that several factors outside the characteristics of innovations are crucial in decision making. The business leader´s digital knowledge and social influence had a greater impact.

Thesis (M.Dev. (Planning and Management)) -- University of Limpopo, 2022 / Small and Micro-Enterprises (SMEs) are considered sources of income that give people the purchasing power to meet their basic needs and improve their standard of living. Primarily, this study investigated the effects of SMEs on employment creation in Sefene Village, Limpopo Province (South Africa) with the following objectives: to determine the types, characteristics and challenges of SMEs in rural areas; to explore the management approaches for SMEs in rural areas; to examine the types and quality of employment created in rural areas; to determine the effects of SMEs on employment creation in rural areas; and to recommend measures that could enhance the effects of SMEs on employment creation in Sefene Village. The study used a literature review, interview schedule and semi-structured questionnaires. The findings of the study revealed that SMEs played a tremendous role in improving the local economic development of Sefene village. The SMEs are employment creators that have provided economic opportunities for the local people of Sefene village. In terms of employment creation, the SMEs in Sefene confronted challenges such as lack of access to finance, marketing aptitudes, markets, and lack of significant infrastructural facilities and management skills. In any case, literature and empirical data gathered at Sefene uncovered that the major challenge experienced by SMEs was a lack of access to finance. An entrepreneur can have the knowledge and skills but without funds, they are then constrained and impeded. The government institutions for SMEs ought to also target rural areas since that is where there are market potential and overwhelming poverty and unemployment. Further, the SMEs proprietors were aware of financial institutions but accessing them was a major challenge since they did not know about ways to approach them. Hence, the study has recommended that the government financial institutions needed to build relationships with the Molemole Local Municipality to extend access to their services by people who aspire to venture into SMEs. Similarly, the SMEs are major employment creators and need support from private sectors, community members, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and government institutions.

For several years, the number of South Africans starting new business enterprises, has declined. According to the findings of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, in 2003, South Africa ranked 22nd out of 31 countries for new entrepreneurial activities. One of the greatest challenges for South Africa, is to find a solution for its huge unemployment problem, which is responsible for many of South Africa's other problems, like poverty, crime and brutality, which discourage global investment in South Africa. The development of small-, medium-, and microenterprises (SMMEs) is seen as an important ingredient of economic development. The population for this study is therefore comprised of SMMEs in South Africa. Any enterprise is dependent on the environment it operates in. The environment consists of the macro-environment, which includes the demographic, technological, economical, social, institutional and international environment, the market environment, which includes consumers, suppliers and competitors, as well as the micro-environment, which includes the organisation, its mission, goals and objectives, management functions, business functions and business resources. The objective of this study is to investigate the possibility of applying cost- and management accounting methods and techniques for the development and profitable running of SMMEs. These include choosing an appropriate costing system, implementing a management information system, effectively executing the management functions of planning, organising, coordination and control, through the application of cost- and management accounting methods and techniques, including forecasting, budgeting, accurate and appropriate costing methods, performance management techniques like total quality management, benchmarking etcetera. Data on the current use of cost-and management accounting by SMMEs in South Africa, and the performance of these concerns, were collected by means of a structured questionnaire from a sample of 37 SMMEs. It was found, that although several cost- and management accounting methods and techniques are used by some SMMEs, many are not used effectively, while many SMMEs are not aware of the many advantages that the application of these methods and techniques hold. It is recommended that entrepreneurs make an effort to gain the knowledge needed for them to apply the cost- and management accounting methods and techniques that will improve the performance of their businesses, ensuring the attainment of their goals and objectives, ensuring their survival and prosperity, and leading to job creation, economic growth, and the prosperity of the people of South Africa. To assist with this, the researcher has developed a model and a manual that can be used by entrepreneurs to assist them in starting a new enterprise, as well as running a successful enterprise. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Business and Management Accounting))--North-West University, Vaal Triangle Campus, 2009.