Mobile telephone opportunities: The case of micro- and small enterprises in Ghana

Abstract

Purpose - Emerging literature from developing countries speak volumes of innovative application of mobile telephones to support the economic activities of the micro and small enterprises (MSEs). Invariably the technology is improving the efficiency of these operatives and boosting their competitiveness. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the contributions of mobile telephones to the development of micro and small enterprises in less urban and rural areas of Ghana. Design/methodology/approach - The methodology used was basically questionnaire administration and was augmented by focus group discussions to collect data from MSEs in six locations in the country. The sample size was 600 enterprises and the selection was based on the International Standard Industrial Code. Findings - The majority of the respondents were positive about the impact of mobile telephones on their businesses in terms of ease of contact with customers and suppliers, reduced cost of transportation and profitability. However, there is the urgent need for the development of innovative services to meet the changing needs of the enterprises. Originality/value - Generally, these findings will contribute to the emerging empirical evidence of the strategic role mobile telephones are playing in the economies of developing countries. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.