Navigating the Digital Landscape: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Kedah through Digital Platforms

Abstract

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are significant contributors to the economic development of a nation. The utilization of digital platforms by small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) entrepreneurs has the potential to enhance business competitiveness, foster sustainability, and augment profitability. Nevertheless, there exists a cohort of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) entrepreneurs who have yet to fully exploit the potential of digital platforms. Furthermore, there are even individuals within this group who lack the incentive to incorporate digital platforms into their business operations. The objective of this study is to utilize the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to forecast the determinants that impact the adoption of digital platforms among female entrepreneurs in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the state of Kedah. In order to achieve these objectives, a quantitative research approach was employed. A survey instrument was employed to collect data from a sample of 440 participants, specifically individuals who identified as owners or managers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The employed sample methodology was purposive sampling. Subsequently, the data underwent analysis utilizing the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method. The results of this study indicate that several variables, including performance expectancy, social influence, effort expectancy, and facilitating conditions, exert a substantial influence on the behavioral intention of female entrepreneurs in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the state of Kedah to use digital platforms. The findings of this study hold significant implications for governments, business support organizations, and creators of digital platforms. It is crucial to incorporate these research findings into the development of interventions and strategies that aim to enhance the effective utilization of digital platforms among women entrepreneurs.