Measuring Success of Information System (IS) in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Gauteng

Abstract

The impacts of information systems (IS) are often indirect and influenced by human, organizational, and environmental factors, therefore measurement of information systems (IS) success is both complex and elusive. Researchers have created models for success emphasizing the need for better and more consistent success metrics. This study endeavoured to measure IS success in SMEs in Gauteng, South Africa, in order to find out its impact on these businesses. This research paper proposed a comprehensive multidimensional model of measuring success of information system in SMEs which suggests that system quality, information quality, service quality, intention to use, user satisfaction, use, self-efficacy, individual benefit/impact, use and organizational benefits/impact are success variables to be used. Online survey questionnaire was distributed and hundred and twenty-six (126) participants retuned usable questionnaires. The data collection instrument fulfilled the reliability and validity tests. The hypotheses were tested using regression analysis. The results enabled the derivation of a generic formal measure of IS success in SMEs with organizational benefits/impact variable as the subject of the formula. The formula can be used by SMEs to measure the success of IS in their respective organizations.