Relationships between Micro-Enterprises and Web Developers: Roles, Misconceptions and Communication

This study investigates the relationship between a micro-enterprise wishing to develop an e-commerce capability, and the Web developer they have chosen to deliver that function. The major challenge of this relationship is how they can work together in achieving good website and business outcomes. Employing a multiple case study approach and thematic analysis, interviews were held with micro enterprise owners and their respective Web developer business partners. Four overarching theme areas were uncovered. Effective communication and a positive relationship resulting in the satisfaction of each party were found to be essential for developing successful websites for micro-enterprises. This study contributes new insights into micro-enterprise and Web developer efforts to develop e-commerce capability, and contributes to better understanding of this relationship for both practitioners and researchers. Relationships between Micro-Enterprises and Web Developers: Roles, Misconceptions and Communication