The Adoption and Use of Information Systems in Romanian SMEs

Purpose - The paper presents different types of integrated information systems and evaluates the extent to which they are adopted by small and medium sized companies in Romania. The authors analyze the way technology is applied in these companies for increasing the business performance. Methodology/approach - The research resorted to available case studies as well as statistical data published in journals and newspapers. Additionally, the authors conducted a market research using the online survey. Findings - Computer utilization rate in Romanian SMEs is high. The IS adoption process is poor on business and technology alignment. The adoption drivers are not strategic, rather they revolve around increasing efficiency, stronger control of the activities and modernization of the business. There is a need for improvement in technical training for employees. Research limitations/implications - The business industries are not equally represented in the results of the study. Two areas of activities which are services and production are predominant as they cover 75% of the responses to the survey. Practical implications - The paper serves SMEs managers in considering the objectives of information systems and assessing the technology applicability in their companies. It raises the awareness in regard to pre-adoption business preparation. Also, the results of the study help IS implementers assess their role in information technology adoption in SMEs. Originality/value - Although information systems have been around for decades, the research literature is scarce with studies that analyzed the actual use of them in SMEs, especially in Romania. The authors work offers a view of the actual degree of IS applicability in Romanian SMEs and reveals managerial issues that impede on best use of the technology.