Barriers and Enablers of BI Tool Implementation in Underserved SME Communities

• Author(s): Azubike Collins Mgbame ; Oyinomomo-emi Emmanuel Akpe ; Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi ; Ejielo Ogbuefi ; Oluwatobi Opeyemi Adeyelu
• Paper ID: 1708221
• Page: 211-226
• Published Date: 31-01-2020
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 3 Issue 7 January-2020

Abstract

Business Intelligence (BI) tools have emerged as pivotal assets in enabling data-driven decision-making and fostering sustainable growth across industries. However, their adoption among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), particularly in underserved communities, remains limited due to a combination of structural, financial, and technical barriers. This study explores the critical barriers and enabling factors that influence the implementation of BI tools in such contexts. Key barriers identified include high implementation costs, limited digital infrastructure, inadequate technical expertise, and organizational resistance to change. Additionally, fragmented data environments and lack of tailored BI solutions that accommodate the unique operational needs of SMEs in marginalized regions further hinder adoption. Conversely, this study also highlights the enablers that could bridge the digital divide and enhance BI adoption. These include affordable cloud-based BI solutions, strategic government and private-sector partnerships, targeted capacity-building initiatives, and improved access to broadband internet. The role of leadership commitment and digital literacy within SME teams is also underscored as a critical factor for successful BI tool deployment. A conceptual framework is proposed, integrating these barriers and enablers into a multi-level strategy aimed at guiding policymakers, developers, and SME stakeholders in designing inclusive and scalable BI implementation models. Findings suggest that tailored interventions that combine financial support, training, and infrastructural investment can significantly enhance BI adoption among underserved SMEs. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the need for participatory co-design approaches that involve SMEs directly in the development of BI tools to ensure relevance, usability, and long-term engagement. By addressing both systemic and operational challenges, this study contributes to advancing digital inclusion and economic resilience within underserved SME communities. This research has implications for academic discourse, public policy, and technology development, and calls for cross-sectoral collaboration to unlock the transformative potential of BI tools. Ultimately, empowering underserved SMEs through strategic BI implementation can drive inclusive growth, reduce economic disparities, and contribute to more equitable digital economies.

Keywords

Business Intelligence, SMEs, Underserved Communities, Digital Inclusion, Barriers, Enablers, Implementation Framework, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Cloud-Based BI, Digital Transformation.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Azubike Collins Mgbame , Oyinomomo-emi Emmanuel Akpe , Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi , Ejielo Ogbuefi , Oluwatobi Opeyemi Adeyelu "Barriers and Enablers of BI Tool Implementation in Underserved SME Communities" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 3 Issue 7 2020 Page 211-226

IEEE:
Azubike Collins Mgbame , Oyinomomo-emi Emmanuel Akpe , Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi , Ejielo Ogbuefi , Oluwatobi Opeyemi Adeyelu "Barriers and Enablers of BI Tool Implementation in Underserved SME Communities" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 3(7)