E-Commerce platforms and SMEs adoption challenges and prospects: evidence from Uganda
Abstract
This research aimed to assess the adaptation of E-commerce Platforms and Small Medium
Enterprises in Uganda; it also looks at the challenges and prospects of E-commerce platforms to
the performance of Small Medium Enterprises. The study was conducted in Makerere Parish
Kawempe division, Kampala district. Data was collected using a cross-sectional research design
from 178 respondents. The study revealed that by selling online products, businesses realize
drastic returns through productivity changes, improved inventory management, less marketing
time, reduced overall order fulfilment times, increased customer experience, and responsiveness.
However, it was discovered that computer set-up and maintenance costs are high, online
payments can be compromised, traders and customers must have enough knowledge of Ecommerce. From a policy perspective, the researcher recommends the strategy that can cause
increased uptake of E-commerce platforms, for example, those aimed at reducing the cost of Ecommerce