Abstract:
The phenomenon of the Internet has helped businesses and organizations to
understand their existing business application and practices as well as adopt new
methods of working, both for existing and potential customers among small and
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This has enhanced firms' ability to gain a
competitive advantage not only locally, but also internationally. This study examined
the factors influencing ICT adoption, as well as its usage among SMEs in the Rural
sector in Sri Lanka. The study took into consideration innovation diffusion theory
(IDT) and characteristics influencing the adoption and usage of ICT among SMEs.
in Sri Lankan context there is little empirical research conducted in rural sector
SMEs. both primary and secondary data were used. the primary data was collected
from 50 SMEs in the Nuwara Eliya district. The findings of this study indicate that
the cost of using ICT discourages SMEs in the Nuwara Eliya District from adopting
and using those facilities in their businesses. While, the adoption and use of ICT
among SMEs in the Nuwara Eliya District is promoted and encouraged by SME
owners and managers' ICT knowledge, available ICT infrastructure, and perceived
benefits of ICT infrastructure, according to this study. The theoretical implications
of this study are the contribution to the literature on ICT adoption and diffusion. and
also, practical implications apply to SMEs, training institutions, ICT vendors, and
consultants.
