Meeting the challenges of ICT adoption by micro-enterprises

Purpose - Information and communication technologies (ICTs) open new opportunities for micro-enterprises to improve their businesses. However, challenges to using ICTs impede these businesses from growing into drivers for development. This paper seeks to investigate the adoption of ICTs in 11 micro-enterprises in an underserved community of Omaha, Nebraska. Design/methodology/approach - Following an action research study, this research provides insight into the key challenges and opportunities facing micro-enterprises in their use of ICTs to create value for their businesses. Findings - The process of "IT therapy" provides individualized technology-related assistance, with an emphasis on relationship-building, customized training, context sensitivity, and solutions that target strongly-perceived needs of the businesses studied. Originality/value - The paper's contribution is in the methodology for facilitating the adoption of ICTs in micro-enterprises.