The contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to global entrepreneurship and prosperity is colossal. It has been widely recognised that the survival and success of SMEs is crucial to any nation's economic stability. To this end, governmental incentives around the world provide increasing resources and support, financing programmes to motivate and maintain SME performance. According to the national body for SMEs in Greece, it is estimated that in the EU, more than 99% of 20 million businesses are SMEs. In Greece, the percentage of SMEs is estimated to be 87.7%, sixth highest of the EU-15 (EOMMEX, 2007). Additionally, in the geographical area of Peloponnese in Greece, where the data for this survey were collected, it is estimated that the number of SMEs is almost 5% of the total number of businesses, while SME revenue is estimated at around 2.2% of annual revenue of Greek entrepreneurs (http://www.eommex.gr).
SMEs are not very different from larger businesses in terms of business objectives: SMEs aim to produce quality products and services by implementing cost-benefit policies . Information and communication technology (ICT) can potentially alter industry structures and the rules of competition by creating competitive advantage and new business opportunities. ICT adoption is a key strategy in supporting a firm's operation, creating strategic advantages in both micro and macro environments. During the last three decades, there has been no conclusive evidence that the adoption of ICTs has had a direct effect on productivity and profitability. However, a number of recent studies have produced valid and reliable evidence for this. In particular, have stated that the contribution of ICT to productivity is significant, providing increased profitability, quality improvement and time-lag benefits. , meanwhile, highlighted the relation between ICT and the micro business environment on how ICT can identify challenges on customer demand and new segmentation marketplaces. In doing so, researchers has showed that productivity paradox is not valid any more and ICT do have an effect on firm performance, including SMEs.