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