IMPACT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ON BUSINESS PROCESS MANAGEMENT IN SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES SECTOR: A CASE STUDY

Due to the numerous advantages of information and communication technology (ICT) , small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are trying to adopt ICT applications to support better performance of their businesses. This paper investigates the impact of information and communication technologies on the business process management in small and medium enterprises in Ogbomoso Oyo State, Nigeria. Bread bakeries industries formed the sample of the study based on random sampling techniques. The data obtained through interview and questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as frequency table, percentage and mean score analysis. The results of the research present the benefits attributed to the implementation of ICT, such as the increase in productivity of SMEs , increase in sales, advertisement, fund attraction and market reach. The results of the study recognize that ICT does add value to the business and can give a company a competitive advantage. Most of the respondents realized a positive performance and other benefits by utilizing ICT in their businesses however, lack of basic knowledge about its use, lack of internal capabilities, lack of financial support and non ? availability of infrastructure are the major barriers in adopting ICT. It was then recommended that there is a need for more focus on increasing awareness among SMEs on the benefits of ICT adoption and more training facilities in ICT for SMEs, measures to provide ICT products and services at an affordable cost, and availability of professional advice at reasonable cost to SMEs.