21st Century Learning Opportunities for SME Success: Maximizing Technology Tools and Lifelong Learning for Innovation and Impact
Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
2011
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-61692-880-3.ch005
Abstract
This chapter informs SME (small and medium enterprise) owners, developers, consultants, and academics with the reasons, means, and possibilities afforded by 21st century technology in helping SMEs to improve their operational efficiencies and discover more effective marketing strategies for their products and services. With the rapid development and broad-based integration of web-based technologies across domains of communication, marketing, e-Commerce, and training, SMEs can benefit greatly by using these inexpensive tools to their advantage. SMEs typically underutilize opportunities to enhance their efficiencies by using more complex e-Business systems, and in so doing under develop the talents of their workforce for innovation and success. This underutilization is not just because of ignorance of technological capabilities, but also from a lack of exposure to leadership and HR development training. Knowing the need to learn must be a strong foundation before technological development can ensue. This chapter provides a synthesis of research and literature across several related, but seldomly connected fields - including, organizational theory, leadership, adult development and learning, 21st century learning, distance learning and human resource management. In developing this chapter, the authors are attempting to communicate the need for SMEs to both develop leadership and technological program developments to implement the changes needed to compete in a marketplace that reflects rapid change and imperfect information.
Was this content written or created while at USF?
Yes
Citation / Publisher Attribution
21st Century Learning Opportunities for SME Success: Maximizing Technology Tools and Lifelong Learning for Innovation and Impact, in M. M. Cruz-Cunha & J. Varajão (Eds.), E-Business Issues, Challenges and Opportunities for SMEs: Driving Competitiveness, IGI Global, p. 65-86
Scholar Commons Citation
King, Kathleen P. and Foley, John J., "21st Century Learning Opportunities for SME Success: Maximizing Technology Tools and Lifelong Learning for Innovation and Impact" (2011). Leadership, Counseling, Adult, Career and Higher Education Faculty Publications. 90.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/ehe_facpub/90
