Management Principles for the Appraisal and Diffusion of Information Systems: Case of SMEs in Ghana

Abstract

In this paper, the authors bring to light the issue of appraising and diffusing information systems by small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. The empirical data was gathered through an online questionnaire-based survey from 312 SMEs in Ghana. All these enterprises are registered members of the Association of Ghanaian Industries (AGI) and are confirmed users of information systems. The framework of the study is developed based on the approaches found in technology management literature: management principles for disruptive technology, information system strategy, technological decision making, and the technology acceptance models. The aim of the paper is to unearth management principles that allow SMEs in Ghana to appraise and diffuse information system successfully. They defined these principles through the comparison of known principles with the practiced principles of management of the small enterprises in Ghana and distilling the best management practices in information system appraisal and diffusion.