The development of a methodology for measuring the effect of broadband quality on SME performance

Davies, Rhodri John 2014. The development of a methodology for measuring the effect of broadband quality on SME performance. MPhil Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

This thesis develops a methodology for ascertaining any variation of economic impact in Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through varying quality of broadband provision, and applies the chosen methodology in order to measure any impacts and to analyse the results of the research study. The research focuses on businesses within the Cardiff and Ceredigion Local Authority areas of Wales, representing the most urban and most rural regions of the nation. These areas were chosen in order to ascertain whether a divide exists in the provision of broadband between urban and rural areas and what impact, if any, this has on businesses in these areas. Indices for measuring the quality of a broadband connection and for the economic impact of broadband upon SMEs are created and applied to the survey results collated from participating businesses. The study establishes SME attitude toward broadband provision, indentifying the importance of broadband to SMEs and their desire for improved quality broadband provision. The study fails to identify a clear direct link between broadband quality and economic impact at this time, but argues that this may not be the case in future since low take-up of higher quality broadband services by businesses presently resulted in less variation in broadband quality than anticipated. However, the research does establish that many SMEs have issues of awareness, skills and knowledge with regards to the use of their broadband connection that is restricting their ability to fully utilise the potential that broadband connectivity provides. The thesis concludes by exploring the regulatory and policy implications arising from the research, particularly in light of recent developments in the subject area. Further research opportunities are also noted and suggestions are made on how the research methodology used in this study could be adapted and improved for future use.

Item Type:	Thesis (MPhil)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Business (Including Economics)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management H Social Sciences > HE Transportation and Communications
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	30 March 2016
Last Modified:	03 Jan 2024 16:25
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/59229

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