Developing Rural SME's Through Web 2.0 Technologies

摘要

Purpose: Although ICT and broadband are available to rural SMEs, research has shown that they have been slow to adopt it in an innovative way. Web 2.0 technologies are a range of communication and social networking tools which offers the potential forcost-effective and easy-to-use solutions for the problems associated with rurality. To date, limited research has been conducted on the application of Web 2.0 technologies within the rural SME context. This paper combines the distinctive position of rural SMEs, their need for communication, collaboration and knowledge transfer with a selected range of easy-to-use, cost effective potential solutions provided by Web 2.0 technologies. The discussion scopes the potential benefits and opportunities offeredby Web 2.0, alongside any potential costs, and creates a platform for further research. Design/Methodology/Approach: An exploration of theory pertaining to the rural SME presents the context in which the application of Web 2.0 technologies are analysed.Findings: This paper presents a review of Web 2.0 technologies and how they can offer cost-effective, easy-to-use business solutions for communication, collaboration and knowledge transfer in the rural SMEs. Implications: If rural firms can effectively use Web 2.0 technologies they have the potential to achieve significant benefits as they can operate independent of location, open new niche or global markets, improve knowledge transfer or adopt an innovative marketing approach. Such business developments might contribute to sustainability and growth, but may have connected costs and/or disadvantages. Further Research: This is the first in a series of papers which explores the potential uses of Web 2.0 technologies within rural SMEs. Further papers willpresent findings of research carried out with a sample of rural SMEs investigating knowledge, solutions and implementation of Web 2.0 technologies. Originality/Value: The contribution offered by this paper will identify the key web 2.0 applications andtheir potential effects on rural SME's and their business and social contacts. The limited amount of current research in this area suggests that further investigation and exploration is required.