The implications of integrating smart mobile phone applications on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya-a case study of mobile usage in Nairobi region

Abstract

The high costs of running businesses in Kenya emanating from high rates of marketing, communications and advertising hinders business growth and scares away SMEs potential investors. Traditional methods of increasing visibility through the various media have proved to be expensive hence the need to adopt a cost-friendly, efficient and effective way of communications and running businesses. This gap experienced by SMEs can be easily bridged by the adoption of modern Information communication technologies (lCTS). Modern ICTs open up the market information services to improve information delivery through smart applications on mobile devices.

The array of mobile applications now available have been designed to help reduce costs, keep employees connected, as well as improving quality of service to customers. This increasing array of mobile applications can help to turn the mobile phone from a mere communication device into a vital tool for any business because of its ubiquitous nature, making the cost of doing business go down hence increasing efficiency and effectiveness. The study aims to explore how the synergy between smart mobile applications and the traditional methods of communication can work in transforming an Enterprise.