Factors influencing internet-based information and communication technologies adoption among Malaysian small and medium enterprises

This paper aims to determine the factors influencing the adoption of internet-based Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) by the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. Based on the extended Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) model, a questionnaire-based survey was carried out to collect data from 406 managers or owners of SMEs in the southern region of Malaysia. Inferential analyses reveal that relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, observability and security are significant factors influencing internet-based ICT adoption. The findings are discussed and interpreted to provide important implications to the policy makers in general and to the SMEs in particular.