Challenges, approaches and impacts of IT adoption among SMEs in the tourism industry

Abstract

A tremendous amount of technological growth and innovation has marked the past decade in business. Information technology has revolutionized businesses and organizations throughout the world. The end result of Internet adoption appears to be a more dynamic, better-managed and aggressive marketing-oriented firm. This review paper investigates the impact on information technology on businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry, focusing on adoption of technology, its effects on strategic management and anticipated future developments. Special consideration is given to small and medium-sized enterprises with 200 employees or less. The paper begins with an overview of the adoption of technology among Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a primary focus on those in the tourism industry sector. Issues impacting the adoption of technology are discussed, then the paper discusses the impact of technology on the industry marketing system and individual marketing strategy plans. The paper concludes with recommendations to enhance the adoption of technology among SMEs in Canada.