March 3, 2026Open Access

Technological Challenges for Firms in Post-Soviet and Other Developing Countries During the 2008-2009 Crisis

Key Points

Technology adoption trends improved despite the economic shock in post-Soviet and developing countries, and firms became more adept at using digital tools.
The study highlights that post-Soviet firms lagged in email communication and internet access compared to their regional counterparts.
Service sector firms and manufacturers experienced similar technology adoption challenges during the crisis, showcasing sector-wide issues.
Improvements in perceptions of telecommunications as an obstacle were noted, shifting from ‘moderate’ to ‘minor’ after the crisis.

Abstract

This paper examines whether the 2008–2009 global financial crisis affected technology adoption trends among post-Soviet and other firms in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. It focuses on three key indicators: the use of email for communication, company websites for product promotion, and access to high-speed internet. The analysis distinguishes between service sector firms and manufacturers. The study finds that post-Soviet firms lagged behind their regional counterparts in all aspects of technology use—both during and after the crisis—regardless of sector. Nevertheless, technology adoption increased among both groups despite the economic shock. Perceptions of telecommunications as a business obstacle also improved: initially viewed as a “minor” to “moderate” issue, it was generally seen as a “no” to “minor” obstacle after the crisis. Overall, the findings suggest that the global financial crisis did not derail the region’s positive trajectory in technology adoption.

Technological Challenges for Firms in Post-Soviet and Other Developing Countries During the 2008-2009 Crisis

Key Points

Abstract

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