Resumo

ALDERETE, María Verónica  e  JONES, Carola. Ict strategies in firms from Córdoba, Argentina: a structural model. SaberEs [online]. 2019, vol.11, n.2, pp.195-216. ISSN 1852-4418.

This paper examines some factors that foster the development of ICT strategies in Small and Medium Enterprises (SME). In particular, the relationship between the competitiveness factors related to  the  productive  sector  and  the  ICT strategic alignment of the firms belonging to those sectors. Is ICT perceived usefulness a mediating variable in this relationship? Based on a sample of 139 SME firms from the service and commerce sectors in Cordoba, Argentina, it is estimated a structural equation model (SEM). Results obtained confirm that the more useful ICT are perceived (the higher the advantages from using ICT), the stronger the effect of the competitiveness factors on the ICT strategy and commitment of the firm is. The main contribution consists in providing primary data about ICT and electronic commerce adoption in SME from Argentina. Studies in the field are still scarce in the region. Moreover, these finding encourage policies to promote ICT and electronic commerce benefits and usefulness among SME. In this manner, they can strengthen firms' ICT strategic alignment.

Palavras-chave : Electronic Commerce; Competitiveness; Small and Medium Sized Enterprises.