Title: To investigate the influence of strategic factors on e-business adoption in small and medium enterprises: a multivariate analysis

Authors: Ifrah Malik; Noman Sohail; Bin Hu; Fuqing Li

Addresses: International Islamic University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan ' Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden ' Changsha Normal University, China ' Xiangtan University, China

Abstract: This study explores the impact of strategic factors on e-business adoption by Chinese SMEs, focusing on innovation orientation, competitive pressure, and corporate strategy alignment. Using Rogers' diffusion of innovation theory and the technology organisation evolution model, the research employs a multivariate approach to predict adoption patterns. Results show a strong link between technical organisation evolution traits and e-business adoption. Organisations with explicit and advanced technological capabilities better absorb new technologies and transfer knowledge effectively. The study also emphasises that e-business adoption enhances company performance. It highlights policy implications to boost e-business adoption in China, benefiting SMEs, policymakers, and academics. As online shopping grows, its positive impact on people's lives expands. The findings provide insights to foster e-business integration, enhance SME competitiveness, and promote socio-economic development through digital transformation in China.

Keywords: e-business; small and medium enterprises; developing countries; technology adoption; diffusion of innovation; DOI; technology organisation evolution.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMDM.2025.148348

International Journal of Management and Decision Making, 2025 Vol.24 No.5, pp.493 - 512

Received: 09 Aug 2024
Accepted: 19 Nov 2024
Published online: 02 Sep 2025 *

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