Technological Acceptance & Efficiency Of Small And Medium Enterprises In Kwara State

The widespread adoption of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) by Small and MediumSized Enterprises (SMEs) has ushered in a new era of business visibility and competitiveness. SMEs can leverage technology, such as social media and email communication, as powerful marketing tools to gain a competitive edge. While large corporations have inherent advantages in terms of human and financial resources, SMEs can level the playing field by reaching a broader audience through the effective use of ICT. This study explores the impact of technology acceptance on the efficiency and performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Kwara State, Nigeria. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire as the primary data collection tool. The sample comprised 127 SMEs operating in the production, retail, and other sectors within Ilorin, Kwara State. The list of registered SMEs was provided by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN). Out of the 127 questionnaires distributed via social media platforms such as WhatsApp, 80 valid responses were received and analyzed, representing a response rate of 63%. The decision to use a quantitative research method was driven by its ability to capture a wide range of perspectives from respondents, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing technology acceptance among SMEs. The study's findings reveal that the acceptance and utilization of technology significantly enhance the operational efficiency and performance of SMEs, explaining 66% of the variance in efficiency The research highlights the significance of technology acceptance among SMEs. Factors such as perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and management support play crucial roles in driving ICT adoption and utilization. The study therefore recommend that SMEs should invest in capacity building and training programs to equip their employees with the necessary skills to effectively utilize ICT. This will help ensure that technology is implemented and utilized effectively.