A decision tree approach for integrating small business assistance schemes

Embedding Design Thinking Paradigm in a University's Business Assistance to Small Business

Interest gaps exist between the university and the small firms when running a business assistance program, leading to the importance of practical guidance that could accommodate both partners' interests. However, there is relatively little literature about how the university team should implement business assistance to a small partnering firm. Accordingly, this research used three stages and a mixed-method approach to solve the problem, involving qualitative and quantitative techniques and action research. This study introduced PROSEM, an acronym for problem rooting, solution treatment, and measurement, to guide university business assistance to small firms by adopting the design thinking paradigm. The results revealed a significant impact on the SME's business performance. The PROSEM process further proved that a measurable and well-planned treatment based on the root causes could increase revenue and production volume and reduce the returned product rate. At the same time, this study enriches researchers' knowledge and skills in developing the concept and guidelines of a systematic problem-solving method using unique, real cases in the small business community. As such, the PROSEM affirms that design thinking is an open and adjustable concept which can be embedded and modified in various problem-solving procedures.

Information Needs and Information Seeking Patterns of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises in Namibia

Reports on an investigation of the business information needs, information seeking patterns and business information services for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in Namibia. The study ranks business information needs of SMMEs as: finance, marketing, production, and training, policies on SMME development, sources of raw materials, regulations, technical information and other types of information. The study reveals that SMMEs largely depend on informal information sources despite the existence of a wide range of business information services in Namibia. Recommendations are made on how business information delivery services can be improved in the SMME sector in Namibia by both government and business support organizations.