E-business and process change: two case studies (towards an assessment framework)

Purpose - The purpose of this research paper is to explore the impacts of e-business technology adoption at process level in SMEs. Design/methodology/approach - The paper reviews a range of literature and mainstream models relating to e-business impacts in SMEs and then focuses on two in-depth case studies. The cases draw their empirical material from the involvement of the authors in e-business project management in these two companies. Findings - The two case studies show significant impacts of e-business technology at process level. They also illustrate how contrasting information systems strategies can successfully embrace e-business process change, and suggest the importance of organisational issues in determining the degree of benefits delivery. Research limitations/implications - The paper suggests a framework for analysing the impact of e-business at process level that can be used with other SME case studies. Practical implications - The suggested assessment framework can be used for comparison with e-business implementations in other SMEs. Originality/value - The value of the case studies lies in their originality and the paper highlights the potential impacts and benefits of e-business at process level. The suggested assessment framework builds on existing models and concepts but provides an update and customisation relevant to today's e-business technologies and business environment.