The Implications of Internet Auctions for Small to Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Great Britain

Abstract

This paper reports the results of an extensive web questionnaire and the resultant brainstorming of expert opinion in order to determine the degree to which eAuctions pose opportunities and threats to SMEs in Great Britain. The findings of the research are structured into five key stages. The first two stages of the research cover the broad topics of SME’s acclimatisation to e-commerce (EC) and the development and growth of eAuctions. The third and fourth stages of the research uncover and measure the considered probability of occurrence and in consideration of occurrence, the impact of the opportunities and threats posed by eAuctions to SMEs. This process enabled a ranking and prioritisation of key issues. In stage five, the highest ranking opportunities and threats were brainstormed by experts, this resulted in a list of recommended actions for the strategy makers of SMEs. The research project shows that the future of eAuctions is far from certain, however currently its use continues to proliferate. SMEs will be affected by eAuctions, although some more than others, dependent largely on their product grouping. The research summarises that those likely to be affected will need to be prepared. In producing a list of recommendations, it is hoped this research helps individual SMEs identify the actions they need to take to gain most benefit from this new technology.