Performances of B2B e-Marketplace for SMEs: The Research Methods and Survey Results

Woon Kian Chong and Mathew Shafaghi

The University of Bolton, Manchester, UK

Abstract

The concept of B2B (Business-To-Business) e-Marketplace provides a new dimension in facilitating the marketers to work more effectively in particular when making critical marketing decision. Benefiting from the Internet technologies, the range of advantages that can be gained from the B2B e-Marketplace is extensive. This paper is intended to provide a clear understanding of the wide range of research approaches, strategies and methods that will contribute to the study of B2B e-Marketplace’s performances for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs). A two stage research design combining qualitative and quantitative research methodologies are used to generate relevant data for this study. Focusing on SMEs the paper will also explore the ability of the SMEs to capitalise from the opportunities provided by B2B e-marketplace. Based on the research results, B2B e-Marketplace is reported to reshape the business processes and enhances the business exposure in the market

Keywords: B2B e-Marketplaces, SMEs, Research Methods, Survey Results
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