Proposed framework for innovative business intelligence for competitive advantage in small, medium and micro-organisations in the North West province of South Africa

Abstract

Background: Innovative business intelligence enjoys popularity amongst mainly large organisations, particularly in the private sector. However, very limited studies have validated the impact of business intelligence in small, medium and micro-organisations (SMMEs), especially in a developing economy.

Aim: To devise an innovative business intelligence as a competitive advantage model and to establish the impact of innovative business intelligence as a competitive advantage, as measured by success or growth and innovation in SMMEs in North West province, South Africa.

Setting: Primary research was conducted amongst SMMEs owners or managers and employees in the North West province, South Africa.

Methods: The final sample consisted of 12 SMME owners or managers and 394 other employees of SMMEs. The study used mixed methods and adopted a survey design. In-depth interviews and a structured questionnaire were used for data collection.

Results: The study established that management support and internal environment commitment support the implementation of innovative business intelligence. Training and employee motivation are insignificant in enhancing innovative business intelligence as competitive advantage.

Conclusion: Management of SMMEs must define clear goals and objectives, as well as support and provide education mechanisms for new technology advancement. The technology-acceptance model (TAM) of adoption is merely one of the key techniques SMMEs can employ to improve the implementation of business intelligence as a new technology instrument to promote quality decision-making and profitability.