Maximizing productivity, harnessing the power of portable gadgets for SMTE business communication in Eastern Cape peri-urban areas

Abstract

This study examines attitudes towards the use of portable devices for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) adoption in Small and Medium-sized Tourism Enterprises (SMTEs) in peri-urban areas of the South African Eastern Cape province. A comprehensive examination of portable gadgets in business ICT and their impact on SMTEs in Eastern Cape peri-urban areas was performed using a non-probability purposive sampling technique to select eight SMTEs, with a quantitative methodology approach adopted, using a structured questionnaire for an in-depth interview. Data captured from structured interview sessions were deductively coded with the aid of software (NVivo version 12), with the transcribed interview data divided into different meaningful codes in this process; developed based on the difference, similarities, and meanings that emerged. The findings suggest a positive attitude towards portable digital device and technology use in SMTEs in the tourism sector in Eastern Cape peri-urban areas. Smartphones were found to play a crucial role as essential business tools, particularly favored in rural settings, while laptops were indicated as valued for their portability, serving as indispensable tools for daily business activities, while tablets hold less significance. The results highlight participant reliance on smartphones for business operations as critical, since these devices streamline numerous tasks, improve convenience, and enable seamless connectivity while mobile. The use of tablets in the tourism and hospitality sectors appears to be limited. The finding’s additionally indicated participants are heavily reliant on laptops for routine business activities, due to their portability and convenience. Desktop computers were, furthermore, found to primarily be used as backup systems, indicating a diverse, portable ICT gadget usage pattern among participants.