IT Foundations for eCommerce: A Survey of Executives in Five Caribbean Countries

Electronic commerce represents an important opportunity for businesses in developing countries, yet previous research has shown significant barriers to success. Common barriers are internet access, web hosting, web site visibility, logistics, and electronic funds transfer. During July and August 2004 the principle investigators visited business executives in five Caribbean nations to determine how these executives were overcoming known ecommerce difficulties. 36 businesses and government agencies were interviewed. Executives described a number of successful strategies to work around common problems. The authors hope the results of this study will suggest improved strategies for SMEs in developing countries seeking to use e-commerce to expand their markets.