Building a Conceptual Framework for Using Big Data Analytics in Small to Medium Enterprises in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The impact of the Small to Medium Enterprises to the Zimbabwean Economy is an evergreen debate, the growth of the informal market and its ravaging threat to the established firms and corporates has also been a buzz topic in recent conversations related to the Zimbabwean economy. This study critically analyse the impact of the adoption of Big Data Analytics for Small to Medium Enterprise firms in Zimbabwe. The study is also aimed at laying out a conceptual framework for small businesses to take on Big Data Analytics and the short, medium to long term benefits which come from the adoption of such technologies. The study explores the TOE (Technological, Organisational and Environmental) factors and outlines how these factors affect the adoption of a Big Data Analytics system for Small to Medium Enterprises. The imminent challenges associated with the adoption of a BDA system have been clearly articulated which relate to aspects such as data security and protection and other aspects such as ethical issues and regulatory issues as it relates to personal data protection (Data Protection Act of 2021). A survey was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to business owners and managers of these firms with questions structured to establish the current operational status of the firms as well as to check if there is the appreciation and presence of fundamental processes and infrastructure which relates to Big Data Analytics. Some opportunity points which can be leveraged to ensure and guarantee business growth were identified from the sixty eight companies which were surveyed from different industries in Harare. Results of the study point out to a possible growth potential realisable by on-boarding and successfully running a Big Data Analytics system, also improved customer experience and the ability to make informed decisions which are data driven is another low hanging fruit and a product of a Big Data Analytics system.